BY Charlotte Cowan
Auckland’s newest cocktail bar has opened its doors, promising elevated cocktails in a beautiful waterfront setting right over the boardwalk.
From mixologists Adam Neal and Jason Rosen – the brains behind rooftop hotspot, Parasol & Swing – Mea is an intimate, modern bar in the Viaduct that seats just 14 patrons.
Mea is a collaboration with Appleton Estate, and one of only three venues in New Zealand offering Appleton Estate’s rare, limited-edition 17-Year-Old Legend rum.
Mea offers an at-bar service experience, inviting guests to witness the artistry behind every cocktail, with a little bit of history along the way.
This experience is partially inspired by the old Ponsonby icon, Mea Culpa, which Jason owned at the time Parasol & Swing was opened.
The curated menu of forgotten classics and bespoke modern cocktails includes Appleton Estate’s famous 17-Year-Old Mai Tai, made from Appleton Estate’s 17-Year-Old Legend – one of the most sought-after spirits in cocktail history. Only 1,500 bottles of this rum were produced globally, with just 23 made available in New Zealand – and Mea is the only bar in Auckland to offer it.
“We’re so excited to partner with Mea and showcase one of Appleton Estate’s rarest blends in a world-class venue, right here in New Zealand” says Phil Restall, Managing Director of Thirsty Camel NZ – part of Campari Group.
Mea is named after a character of legend, thus far known only by her silhouette on the iconic logo of Parasol & Swing. Her backstory is mysterious and adventurous. A journey collecting recipes from legendary bars in London, to the tropical shores of Jamaica, and tiki bars of America, that saw her master the art of cocktail making while learning from the greats.
Check out the new bar below:
