The Marina Pier has spent several years establishing themselves as the trendy side of Glenelg. Rightly so, it has established are persona of a fine dining and drinks experience. Away from the regular foot traffic of Jetty Road, Marina Pier has been a best-kept secret but with cocktail bars and swank sites appearing all over the city its good to remind people that the city isn’t the only hip place to be.

To emphasise this Marina Pier held a cocktail Masterclass at the Marina Sunset Bar. To provide an example of not only how elegant the Marina Pier has always been but also just how well they can pull off a party. Inviting Andy Buntine who has been a figure in the alcohol distribution and cocktail scene for a number for years. With Andy at the helm and the Marina Sunset Bar providing the setting we were free to bask in the ocean air and enjoy some finely crafted drinks.

First up is the Espresso Martini. I don’t think I need to explain this drink considering how insanely popular this drink is. If you are one of the handful of people that has never had this life-changing cocktail you need to sort your life out. Close on it’s heels is the Dark & Stormy, what seems to becoming an increasingly popular drink within bars in the city. With Mount Gay Rum, ginger beer and lime this drink is simplicity with a kick.

Whisky Sours are by far my favourite drink. Superb when made right yet can be easily made wrong. The appreciation of a Whisky Sour done well adds to my enjoyment of the drink. So when presented with a Disaronno Sour my eyes lit up. Made from Disaronno Amaretto, lemon juice, egg white and sugar. It doesn’t have the same bite as a regular whisky sour but has a delicious and distinctive flavour. Still love it. And lastly we finished with a simple Margarita. Again if you haven’t tried the party drink of all party drinks you need to switch on. The only thing I can add is that Sierra Reposado is a smooth and savoury tequila that can take your Margarita’s to the next level.

The Marina Pier hasn’t gone any where. If anything it is more relevant than ever. It may be cold outside which is why you need a good drink to warm your soul. The Marina Pier and the Marina Sunset Bar are here to stay. May as well see what all the fuss is about.

Words and Photos by Jonathon Tonkin

WHERE: 3 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg