A liquid love letter to Manila

Manila Bulletin was invited to an exclusive tasting at Raffles Makati’s Long Bar, where history meets craftsmanship in a glass. The event unveiled "Dear Manila," a special cocktail menu crafted in collaboration with Destileria Limtuaco & Co., the country’s oldest distillery. Running from March 7 to May 31, this limited-time selection pays homage to the city's storied past and vibrant neighborhoods through six drinks.

Each cocktail tells a tale, weaving Manila’s history into its flavors. Intramuros, a standout, is a rich, decadent mix of Napoleon VSOP, Intramuros Liqueur de Cacao, spiced orange peel crème, evaporated milk, and cheese. It’s an homage to the grandeur of the Walled City—deep, complex, unforgettable. Escolta, another favorite, is a refreshing fusion of Manille Liqueur de Dalandan, Cinzano Prosecco, and sampaguita sorbet. Light and elegant, it captures the nostalgic charm of Manila’s historic financial district.

Guest bartenders Aaron Aw and Jimmy Munsayac from Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc. 

Of course, no visit to Long Bar is complete without the famed Singapore Sling. Originating from Raffles Singapore, this cocktail remains an icon—gin-based with cherry brandy, Cointreau, pineapple juice, lime, and a hint of herbal complexity. It’s a sip of history in itself.

Other creations include Quiapo, a bold mix featuring Bonifacio Pure Pot Still Rum, calamansi, pomelo oleo, and a touch of scad meat black air—an inventive take on the district’s bustling, no-frills character. Binondo brings a fusion of tea-infused Palawan Blanco White Rum, Paradise Mango Rum, Siok Tong herbal wine, and a churro accompaniment, a nod to the flavors of the world's oldest Chinatown. El Poblacion embodies the eclectic energy of Makati’s nightlife scene with Empire London Dry Gin, lemongrass syrup, coconut cream, and lemon juice. Meanwhile, Cubao Expo is a complex blend of Napoleon VSOP, Amadeo coffee liqueur, Campari, Laphroaig Islay Whisky, Rosso, cinnamon, and bitters—moody and artistic, much like its namesake.

With each sip, "Dear Manila" is more than just a menu—it’s a journey through the capital’s rich and layered past. The collaboration between Raffles Makati and Destileria Limtuaco & Co. is a testament to how flavors can tell stories, connecting tradition with modern-day indulgence. For those looking to experience Manila in a glass, Long Bar awaits.