Single malts seem to have become the trend of the times lately. I’d been drinking only wine for a while so I didn’t know much about that side of things, but it turns out Seoul has a few bars that specialize in single malts. The one I go to most often is Factory, in Hongdae — or rather near Sangsu Station. I go there a lot, but the lighting is so dim I’ve barely managed to take any photos, and the ones I did take didn’t come out well. Still, I’ve pulled them together to leave a record.
A glass of single malt
I don’t remember exactly what it was, but it must have been one of Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Talisker, Bowmore or Balvenie. They’re all flavorful single malts that are great value for the price. The 12-year-olds are good, and anything older gets a bit pricey, sadly. I should pick up some decent whisky at the duty-free shop and keep it at home for the odd glass..
A generous snack plate
This place is always generous with the bar snacks. That must be why it’s so hugely popular. It’s usually packed, so be sure to call ahead before you go.
Ardbeg Supernova
A seriously powerful single malt. I did have a glass of it at Factory, but this photo wasn’t taken there. It was so intense it nearly knocked me over. One glass and I thought I was going to die.. But after giving it a little time it mellowed a bit and became quite drinkable. I should set up another drinking get-together sometime.
Besides single malts, the cocktails here are top-notch too. That seems to make it popular with women. I saw plenty of couples there as well.
Vesper
James Bond’s martini, famous for “Shaken, not stirred.” You can’t make it with the original recipe anymore, so the bartender has to improvise, but that day it came out really delicious. Much better than a regular martini. On my second visit, though, it tasted a bit different. Thinking about what the Vesper stands for, I hope I get another occasion to drink one.
Strawberry daiquiri
The portion is insane. It’s sweet, too. There was a whole lineup of other flashy, delicious cocktails as well. A cocktail called the Egoist, made with Ardbeg, was impressive too.. I’ve dropped by other single-malt bars, but Factory is really competitive. Worth making time to stop by..