The debate as to whether it should be whiskey or whisky and which is finer, Scotch or Irish, takes a deliciously ironical twist as, according to Whisky Magazine’s World Whiskies Awards 2008, currently the best whisky is Japanese. Yes, the home of rice-based alcohol drinks, the land of the great improvers – cars, electronics, computer games… you name it – has perfected the ‘water of life’. In 2008 the World’s Best Blended Whisky is Suntory Hibiki 30 Years Old and the World’s Best Single Malt Whisky is Yoichi 20 Years Old. Sadly, neither is widely available locally.

Absolut Vodka lovers: check out the Duty Free shops next time you’re out at Chep Lap Kok because you are unlikely to find the new Absolut 100 anywhere else. With its black label and silver cap, it’s an imposing-looking bottle of Swedish winter wheat distilled spirit. The traditional Absolut hints of charcoal and herbs are there and while the initial aroma demonstrates its strengths, Absolut 100 is smooth as silk on the tongue.

The west end of Hong Kong island is an increasingly popular living nexus and Sheung Wan and Kennedy Town have seen an increasing number of new bars and restaurants to cater for the changing tastes of the residents. Following its success in Kennedy Town, a branch of The Place (255 Queens Road Central, Sheung Wan) has newly opened in the area. The 1,300 sq ft bar is a bit out of the way but the cozy, casual and fun-loving atmosphere and friendly staff are worth the walk.

Also newly opened in TST East is Mody’s Grill and Bar (Shop 36-41, G/F, South Seas Centre, 75 Mody Road, 2721 3938), a pleasant, unpretentious space opposite the Intercontinental Grand Stanford. While not on the waterfront, Mody’s does have an open frontage just about perfect for mixed groups of smoking and non-smoking friends. A three-piece live band plays new and old pop classics Monday to Saturday from 7.30pm-2.30am.