Raffles Singapore celebrates 100 years of the Singapore Sling
Singapore Sling 100 years and still going strong
A century is a long time by any standards, which makes the Singapore Sling’s enduring popularity — first concocted at the Long Bar in Raffles Singapore in 1915 — that much more impressive.
Widely regarded as the national drink of the country, it was the brainchild of bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. Primarily a gin-based cocktail, the Singapore Sling also contains pineapple juice as the main ingredient, along with grenadine, lime juice and Dom Benedictine. Giving it the pretty pink hue are cherry brandy and Cointreau, which Ngiam deliberately chose.
The reason was less apparent. Following the turn of the century in colonial Singapore, Raffles Singapore was the gathering place for the community and Long Bar was the watering hole. Unfortunately for the ladies, etiquette dictated they could not consume alcohol in public, and for the sake of public modesty, fruit juices and teas were their preferred beverage. This didn’t stop the drink from gaining international acclaim, and a century later it is enjoyed across the globe, from New York to London, Paris, Tokyo and Shanghai. So it’s no surprise that Raffles Singapore is celebrating the Singapore Sling Centennial Anniversary with a series of promotions and educational initiatives starting in June.
Raffles Singapore Celebrates 100 Years of the Singapore Sling
Raffles Singapore is paying tribute to one of the world's most iconic cocktails as the Singapore Sling marks its Centennial Anniversary this year. The Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink of the country, was first created in 1915 at the Long Bar in Raffles Singapore by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. It later went on to gain international fame and a century later, is still enjoyed around the globe.
"The Singapore Sling is a world renowned cocktail and its enormous success has become synonymous with Raffles Singapore," said Simon Hirst, General Manager, Raffles Singapore. "In recognition of its 100th birthday, we want to highlight its sweet success with special events to encourage everyone to discover, rediscover and enjoy the Singapore Sling."
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, a myriad of activities has been planned throughout 2015. From commemorative merchandise to desserts inspired by the Singapore Sling, there are many opportunities to participate in the celebrations. Sign up for the Singapore Sling Masterclass, where bartenders from the Long Bar will divulge the secret to making the perfect cocktail or spend the night at the Raffles Singapore with the Singapore Sling 100th Anniversary Suite Package.
Raffles Hotel celebrates 100 years of Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling, a cocktail that was created at the Raffles Hotel in 1915, celebrates its centennial anniversary this year
The Singapore Sling, a cocktail that was created at the Raffles Hotel in 1915, celebrates its centennial anniversary this year.
The gin-based cocktail was created by the hotel's then-bartender, Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese. The sweet yet potent tipple with a rosy hue, was initially created for women so that they too could enjoy an alcoholic beverage at the bar back when it was not socially acceptable.
These days, the internationally recognised cocktail can be had at bars around the world and is savoured by both men and women.
Raffles Hotel since 1887
Situated in the heart of the business and civic district, Raffles Singapore is a veritable oasis in the city. The hotel was built by Armenian hoteliers, the Sarkies Brothers and it opened its doors in 1887. The Raffles Hotel was named after British statesman Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore. Today, it is one of the few remaining great 19th century hotels in the world, and the flagship property of Raffles Hotels & Resorts.
A century after its opening, the hotel was declared a National Monument by the Singapore Government. Its colonial architecture stand out from the contemporary style of its surrounding neighbours in the business and civic district. Through the decades, liveried Sikh doormen have welcomed some of the most famous personalities, from writers to celebrities, politicians and members of royalty. Somerset Maugham, Rudyard Kipling and Michael Jackson are among those who have succumbed to the charms of the Raffles.
Today, nothing much has changed with esteemed guests such as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George Bush, Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Louboutin still choosing to put up at the hotel. No visit to Singapore is complete without a stay at this iconic all-suite luxury Singapore hotel. Each suite features period furnishings, lofty 14-foot ceilings and modern conveniences expected of a 21st-century hotel. Raffles butlers, legendary for their charming and graceful service are available to fulfil requests both ordinary and extraordinary. 14 restaurants and bars offer a unique menu prepared using only the freshest of ingredients. Among the most well-loved include the fine dining establishment Raffles Grill; Long Bar, where the famous Singapore Sling was created; and Writers Bar, a tribute to the novelists and travel writers, who have become part of the hotel’s legend.
