Situated underneath London’s oldest whisky shop, Milroy’s of Soho, The Vault offers an intimate drinking cave for the whiskey thirsty Londoner.

Down the stairs behind the secret bookshelf, you'll find yourself entering a candle-lit exposed brick bar; think Fagins’ lair with the pickpockets, replaced with modern bohemians and young London professionals.  

Purple Rain was a dazzler on the night with its lavender notes and fresh snap.

Although I usually regard whisky as sophisticated, masculine and too strong for the twinkly sprite that I am, the selection surprisingly hit the spot! The selected samples were a mix of sweet notes, gin infusions, with that all important oak-y whiskey base. My favourite by far was Purple Rain, a smooth concoction of lavender infused gin, cassis de Bourgogne, raspberry vinegar, egg white and topped off with, my favourite, prosecco. This was very pretty and sweet with a strong, oak-y undertone. For something a little less sweet Remy’s Fizz is for sure the way to go, a cognac base with saffron gin, pepper infusions, topped with that all-important prosecco fizz.

If you were looking to splash the cash a little more, I would highly recommend their top shelf cocktail selection, offering the finest mixes using the whiskeys that can be purchased upstairs in Milroy. If you’re a romantic soul like myself be sure to try the Japanese Rose Garden, mixed with ‘Nikka By the Barrel’ Rose Vermouth and Frozen Raspberry for that tart aftertaste, again highlighting the The Vaults' premium selection of 'top shelf' whiskies from Japan, Scotland and beyond.

Definitely wrap up and take a visit behind the bookshelf to warm yourself with the Vaults new autumnal cocktail menu, as this is an underground bar that won't stay secret for very long!