There’s something deeply profound about the relationship between fine, aged whisky and rare hand-rolled cigars; a bond that can be explored thoroughly at Above 21, the new cigar and whisky lounge at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai. The two-storey lounge pays homage to the modest grain and the fragrant leaf, in a plush 1920s style art deco setting that boasts spectacular views of Dubai Marina.
Master cigar sommelier Felipe Rojas Bruna, winner of the Habano Sommelier World Championship 2017, is the keeper of the walk-in humidor, which stocks the finest cigars from around the world and provides dedicated storage space for members who want to leave their stogies at the venue.
Originally from Chile, Bruna is on hand to recommend the best cigar and whisky pairings based on personal tastes, and provides a wealth of knowledge on cigar history and etiquette following 25 years in the business. Adorned with leather armchairs, glass cabinets displaying fine spirits and shimmering glassware, and magnificent art deco details, Above 21 seats up to 72 guests across it’s 13th and 14th floor setting.
And the name? Twenty one is the number of years whisky has to be left in the barrel before it’s considered ‘premium’. Spend a few hours at Above 21, and you’ll be convinced it’s worth the wait.