Luke McCarthy
Professional barman
Luke McCarthy has travelled the world to learn more about the spirits he serves. The result is two parts drinks culture and one part global trends, served with a dash of critical assessment.
Fine Drinks
Wine & spirits
10 delicious new Australian whiskies you need to try
The southern state remains ground zero for some of the best drams in Australia.
- by Luke McCarthy
Ten underrated whiskies from around the world
The most underrated drams around, from places you never considered.
- by Luke McCarthy
Easy summer cocktails from Australia's best bartenders
Top bartenders reveal the simple, refreshing drinks they make when the sky is melting.
- by Luke McCarthy
What is the best glass for drinking spirits?
The vessels from which you can sample your favourite dram are surprisingly diverse.
- by Luke McCarthy
Tips to gifting the best Christmas spirits
Don't take a wild guess and make an expensive mistake. Here's how to get it right.
- by Luke McCarthy
Craft beer: how much should you pay?
A taste test shows wine-like complexity, but are they really worth up to $100 each?
- by Luke McCarthy
Spirits appreciation societies have a thirst for knowledge
If you appreciate a dram of whisky, or any other fine spirit, join the club.
- by Luke McCarthy
Are super-premium spirits worth the super-premium price?
Would you pay thousands for a ‘super-premium’ spirit? What about millions?
- by Luke McCarthy
Work drinks: good or bad for workplace culture?
Long business lunches, Friday drinks, or a team blowout - what's the impact?
- by Luke McCarthy
Who decides what you drink?
Taste is totally subjective, so is anyone ever really right or wrong about any given tipple?
- by Luke McCarthy