A new and unique Tasting Bar has been included as part of a recent renovation carried out at Shortland Hotel.
Located within the hotel’s bottle shop and constructed with reclaimed hardwood timber from the hotel’s former drive thru, the Tasting Bar provides customers with an opportunity to try different products and learn more about options and ideas when it comes to mixers and garnishes.
“It gives customer the confidence to purchase something they haven’t bought before, as well as the opportunity to try something new to the market” Shortland Hotel operator Nick Clark said.
“Before COVID-19 impacted the Hunter we were holding tasting afternoons with beer and wine representatives but we also have a large range of spirits that can be tasted at any time with our staff.”
Nick said overall the tasting bar has been well received by customers and patrons, with some now choosing to extend their visit to also experience the hotel’s dining offerings.
“We have managed to introduce a lot of these customers to the restaurant now too,” Nick said.
“Rather than offering a quick drive-thru experience, our customers are actually browsing products, taking their time, and engaging with the venue as a whole.”
“Our bottle shop also carries a vast range of spirits, particularly gin, tequila and whisky products, so we are slowly building up a bit of a community following who come and chat to our staff and find out what’s new in that space as well.”