Bar Review: Pandora’s Garden brings a blush of colour to Ann Siang with gin & rosé wine in Singapore
PUBLISHED December 4th, 2018 06:30 am | UPDATED May 18th, 2020 08:35 pm
In greek mythology, the figure of Pandora is full of paradox, beauty and mystery. Gifted with talents by the gods, its apropos, we suppose, to find Rosé wine in her garden. And lots and lots of it. The latest addition to watering holes in Club Street and Ann Siang, Pandora’s Garden is a rosé wine and gin-focused bar hidden in the back of Ann Siang House.
Climb up a set of narrow stairs and you’ll find yourself emerging into a cozy, open-air courtyard – the alfresco setting comes complete with a cool retractable roof for shelter against the elements. Our favourite aspect, however, is the old frangipani tree coming through the floor of the bar. That and the twinkling fairy lights brings a whimsical, otherworldly touch to the space.
And what’s a friendly gathering spot without a tipple? At Pandora’s Garden, the alcohol of choice has to be something from their extensive selection of rosé wines on menu.
For the uninitiated, the elegant Anna de Codorníu Brut Rosé Cava ($15 by glass / $30 by bottle) from Lleida, Spain, is a great entry-level introduction to the category. Composed of 70% Pinot Noir, one of the most popular grape varietals in wine-making, the Anna Sparkling Rosé gives off subtle notes of strawberries that complements its peachy pink colour; a colour achieved from three to four hours of skin contact during the process. Light on the palate, balanced between tangy and sweet with a refreshing finish, this wine is perfect for a toast.
Another Spanish rosé to try is the Bach Viña Extrísima Rosado ($12/$41) from Catalunya. A strong raspberry pink, this medium-bodied still wine is made from red varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo. It’s a semi-dry wine with richer acidity, making it a great combination with the thick-cut ham we were having on the side.
Spanish wines aside, there are notable selections from other regions around the world too, from the Californian Little Black Dress Rosé ($14 / $58) to the French Whispering Angel’s L’Esclans Gamus ($535, by bottle only). The latter is also know as “The Greatest Rosé” ever, according to influential wine critics. Francophiles can also then consider the award-winning Chateau Cavalier Marafiance Provence Rosé ($17 / $67), which sports a heady mix of floral and citrus aromas, as well as a deliciously complex palate of red fruits that pairs well with most of the bar bites.
Speaking of the munchies, food leans European at Pandora’s Garden. The Ploughman’s Platter ($30), with sweet honey-glazed thick-cut ham, sharp mature English cheddar, Pork Pie served cold, and homemade pate, is good for three but you might just want to order your own British Pork Pie ($15) or rich Homemade Jägermeister Pate ($15) – the savoury goodness borders on addictive.
Pandora’s Garden is located at Ann Siang House, 28 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069708, p. +65 9485 4226 / +65 9723 9372. Open Tues – Sat, 5pm – 12am
