Booze hounds

Dawn Davies

Who are you and what do you do? Tell us about yourself…

I am the head drinks buyer for The Whisky Exchange and Speciality Drinks, so I source all the products with the exception of old and rare for the on- and off-trade. I also manage the events team and the shops for the company. I have worked in the industry for twenty years starting in restaurants as a sommelier and then as the buyer for Selfridges. I am also a Master of Wine which is something I am pretty proud of, as it is a tough exam to pass. 

What’s the best thing about your job?

I get to drink for a living - who wouldn’t want my job! I am also very lucky to work with some incredible people, we really have the best people in our industry who are all very passionate and hard working. 

You can teleport to any bar in the world, where are you going?

London, of course. We have some of the best bars in the world here. But hey, if I can’t pick London, then probably either NoMad or Dante, as it has been a long time since I visited New York and I would love to see the scene there right now.

Where’s your favourite city for bar-hopping?

I really loved San Francisco last time I was out there, it is a beautiful city and I love the variation of bars and venues. Also I think Paris is really on top of its game right now.

What’s your idea of a party?

Spontaneous ones - I am not much of an organized party person but I love it when you expect to have a quiet chilled night and then end up dancing till the early hours with a group of people as crazy as you.

Who in the industry would you love to rock up to the bar next to you?

God, this is a tough question, there are so many people I would be happy to see if they rocked up in a bar next to me. Probably anyone who I haven’t seen for ages and I always have a good time with. 

What is your desert island bottle?

Clairin Sajous, it is my go to at the moment. l love the freshness and the vibrancy of clairin, and it never fails to put a smile on my face.

What’s your failsafe cocktail?

Negroni - it seems the simplest drink to make but so many times people make it badly. When you have a good one, there is nothing better. 

What is your hangover cure?

I am lucky I don’t often get hangovers, but Berocca and plenty of sparkling water seem to sort me out.

Type

Booze hounds