If there is a signature drink or a special edition of spirit you got our attention. We like to try something unique and special. Not that there is something wrong with large-scale products, but usually in boutique ones there is more passion involved. In Melaka, we found the heritage Majestic Hotel Melaka, where they just engaged in a new concept Gin O’Clock. The house bar got a limited edition gin, which was made especially for them – Tranquay Mallaca Gin. A new addition s also a few signature cocktails created by CK Kho, one of the best Malaysian bartenders.
Colonial Bar, Majestic Hotel Ambiance
Right after the entrance, you will be simply amazed. The floors are decorated with the original Victorian style porcelain tiles, and the furniture is impeccable. Mahagony bar is massive and somehow shabby. Our eyes just couldn’t stop wandering around the lobby and the feeling is just right. Then my eyes noticed the Holy Grail on the wheels. It was their bar cart ready for our order.
An affectionate bartender offered us some water, which was more than needed on this hot day. I like that their offer isn’t too big and their menu set is nice. Actually, the menu exists in the form of neatly designed cards. There are some tips on them, how to enjoy Malacca Gin and a brief history of it.
Gin O’Clock
Every guest has also an option to prepare the cocktail by himself, with each recipe written on a menu card. If you choose to do it yourself, you’ll have more fun. Otherwise, you can relax and watch the bartender do the magic. In the meantime, you can check the outstanding old bar with its main piece – the mahogany-colored bar.
Vivi chose their signature cocktail – The Malacca Collin, while I stayed with their Tanqueray’s Malacca Gin. This limited-edition is just for them and you won’t find it anywhere else. Correction. We found it in Vietnam in one nice bar, which we can’t name 😉
Malacca Gin is London Dry Gin style, just more subtle, with a less intense taste of juniper. The palate is fruity – green limes, grapefruit, and ripe oranges at the back. The aftertaste is more floral, reminding of a rose with a slight scent of pine. Vivi’s cocktail was made of Broker’s Gin, Gula Melaka syrup, lemon juice, and Tonic Water.
Gula Melaka gives a drink a smoky flavor with caramel and butterscotch which combines nicely with the acidity of the citrus. A bitter taste of Tonic rounds everything and hides the alcohol. The cocktail is warmly sweet and can make a great company with some chocolate biscuits. Later on, we got also some snacks, some roasted green pea, and salted peanuts.
The short visit to this hotel moved us so much, that we are eager to stay at the Majestic Hotel KL, where they are waiting for us with their Smoke House Bar. The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is managed by the same company – YTL. and is also full of history.
Conclusion
Majestic Hotel Melaka is the best hotel here in Melaka, and there is no secret the Colonial Bar is amazing as well. This place is a must for all colonial and heritage lovers. Not only that, but this bar is a must also for all gin lovers. What can be better than sitting in this colonial bar and enjoy a delicious cocktail?
Price and Location
One Gin and one Cocktail costs us about 20 USD. If you would like to enjoy your Gin O’clock as well, here is a Google map link for easy navigation through Melaka’s streets.