Natasha Corfiled was in Edinburgh for the launch of Folly Spirit Labs.
Folly Spirit Labs, a microdistillery cocktail bar tucked away on Calton Road, brings fresh energy to Edinburgh’s bar scene with a sustainability-led concept that turns overlooked food surplus into small-batch spirits.
Inside, you’re met with a warm, atmospheric interior: soft lighting, neutral tones and an understated elegance that immediately draws you in. There is an impressive back bar of sake, mezcal and eau-de-vie with the cocktail list delivering bold twists on classics.
My evening began with the punchy Sakasawa Martini — a savoury mix of Tokubetsu junmai sake, gin, limestone tincture and pickle juice. Briny, impeccably balanced and one of the best savoury Martinis I’ve had in the city. The Baiju Mary was equally memorable – rich, spicy and sure to be a menu staple.
For a sweeter finish, the Cramond Island Iced Tea combined Pochle, apricot and pear eau-de-vie, kirsch, cane rum and cola into something sweet, herbaceous and dangerously drinkable.
Folly Spirit Labs strikes an impressive balance between accessibility and experimentation. A genuinely exciting addition.
★★★★☆
2-6 Calton Rd, Edinburgh EH1 3AT