Washington DC

[mountaineervol]

Couldn't find anything via search on DC, but I'm heading there in a couple weeks for a conference for a weekend. Are there any bars that I should visit or any liquor stores I should go to? We will be staying close to the conference center. I've heard about Jack Rose and plan on going there, but otherwise have no idea of where to go. I appreciate any suggestions.

[Harry in WashDC]

Here's a link to a previous SB thread with some bar references and with a few related threads listed below it.

http://www.straightbourbon.com/forums/showthread.php?23514-Headed-to-DC

If money is no object and you don't mind, in the opinion of some but not necessarily me, being ripped off, check out (via websearch) Schneider's, Harry's on Capital Hill (no relation), and One West Dupont Circle Wine and Liquor (actually on P Street NW about a short block west of Dupont Circle, not on Dupont Circle). These three typically charge more than most WashDC stores, but they also typically have things the others don't. For example, One West two weeks ago had several 750s of Old Fitz bonded for $99 each.

Be sure to ask the concierge at your hotel for the stores within five or so blocks of your hotel. Our blocks are short, and we have lots of stores - holes in the wall and boutiques.

I say again: The upstairs bar at Bourbon in Adams Morgan has a great bourbon selection, knowledgeable bartenders, and will get bottles from the first floor if you ask nicely so you don't have to fight the first floor crowds.

[mountaineervol]

Thanks for the reply. Not sure why my search didn't bring up that thread. I appreciate the recommendations.

[dmarkle]

The Jack Rose is indeed an epic place to drink whiskey, and you can get a lot of whiskies you just can't find antwhere else. You'll pay for it, but it's a nice place and the food is lovely as well. The only downside of the Jack Rose is that EVERYONE loves it and it's not really a relaxed atmosphere. I've been meaning to try their basement bar, Dram and Grain, but haven't really pulled the trigger because I kind of feel like their fancy drinks will be lost on me, a pure bourbon and scotch drinker.

[petrel800]

I was just there a few weeks ago. Jack Rose is amazing, but as others have noted, its pricey. Then again, the whole city is pricey, its a money vacuum that has the ability not only to suck money, but also print it.

Not a great "whiskey bar," but Old Ebbitt grill has a great Oyster Happy hour in the afternoons if you enjoy Oysters. Decent bourbon selection, but nothing special.

[michaelturtle1]

If you make the right choices there are some bourbon pours at Jack Rose that are ridiculously cheap for what they are. Fighting cock 8 yr is $6.00 per ounce and Yellowstone Mellow Mash is $13 an ounce, for the quality of whiskey that's almost as cheap as your average pour ogd at a bar.

[Happyhour24x7]

As mentioned above, Dram and Grain is very nice, but it is a cocktail experience, not a bourbon experience. Make a reservation if you want to check it out. If you're near the convention center, Acadiana is a great place right across the street at 901 NY ave. there is also a new whiskey bar in the Marriott right there but I haven't checked it out yet; if you do let us know.