'The Jell' opens single-malt whisky bar
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The renovated whisky bar of The Jell / Courtesy of The Jell
A private whisky storage box for bar members / Courtesy of The Jell
By Yun Suh-young
"The Jell," one of the oldest wine shops in the city, which has kept its place for 24 years near Mt. Namsan, has launched a "premium single-malt whisky bar."
The bar opened in March after extensive renovations, occupying the ground floor and B1 of the five-story building. The space used to be a restaurant. The second floor and above will continue as a restaurant while the wine cellar and shop remain on the B2 floor.
The Jell's bar aims to be a comfortable and easy-to-access whisky bar with a classic interior, unlike the common modern bars in Hannam-dong and Cheongdam-dong, according to owner Hans Lee.
"The private whisky room is situated in the basement floor for customers who prefer a private gathering in a luxurious atmosphere," he said.
The bar offers premium single-malt whiskies that are over 15 years old. Customers can enjoy a cocktail and whisky with hanwoo (Korean beef) steak. The "bar package" is offered at various prices, depending on the type of gathering and business meeting.
The bar’s first floor has a private whisky storage box for members to enjoy their own whisky when they visit.
The Jell's bar liquor collection includes whisky, cognac and grappa. The bar plans to hold tasting sessions so customers can experience some of the rarest of the liquors. It also hopes to attract global single-malt whisky brands to hold tasting sessions.
"The Jell's bar will attract the interest of single-malt whisky aficionados who wish to relax in a classic and mature atmosphere," Lee said. "It will be different from the trend-seeking bars in other regions."
The Jell was the first to introduce a wine membership club ― more than a decade ago ― offering regular tastings. Although the wine bar was once exclusive, it has opened up to non-members. The whisky bar will be run on a membership and non-membership basis.
For more information, call (02) 797-6846.