Raising the Bar

Clive’s cocktail captain Shawn Soole

It may not be Vista 18, but it sure does have a view. Recently opened in the lobby of the Chateau Victoria, Clive’s Classic Lounge is an elegant and modern space just waiting to lure you in with its sexy bar and fine selection of European and local booze. Monday spent some quality time with award-winning bartender Shawn Soole, who believes Clive’s has what it takes to become Victoria’s next “it” spot.

Who are you? I’m an Australian ex-pat bartender who has been in Victoria for the last three years.

What are you pouring? We’re just rehashing the cocktail list and gearing it to more classic styles, along with some eclectic creations from staff. We’re really focussing on European beers and introducing people to the original styles from Belgium, Germany and the like.

Why Clive’s? I have a saying I live by: “A bartender can look great in a great bar, but it takes a great bartender to make a bar great.” Basically, I like a challenge; I like making something out of a bar that people don’t think or don’t know how to do and making it one of a kind.

What kind of beer do you serve here? I love local beer, but with Vista 18 doing the Pacific Northwest we’re focussing mainly on European and international beers at a good price.

Favourite beer? Right now, I’m totally infatuated with the Phillips Longboat Chocolate Porter. It’s like chocolate milk for big kids.

Nastiest drink you’ve ever had to make? Can’t stand Cosmos or anything from that “martini” phase, like sour apple martinis. Hate them! Nastiest drink always will be a Cement Mixer—who would want anyone to do that? It’s barf in a glass.

Best bet if I’m feeling adventurous? We’re here to expand people’s horizons. If someone says they hate a certain spirit, then I make it my sole mission to change their mind before they leave. It’s the same with any beer, wine or spirit—I’m all about pushing the boundaries and educating in the process. It’s a fun trip watching people when they order a Heineken and then you take them on a journey of Pilsner Urquell, Peroni and Kronenbourg.

Do you believe in hair of the dog? Yes. I have a drink called Shawn of the Dead, which combines orange-infused tequila, chili-infused white rum, some Berocca (a B-12 effervescent tablet) topped with tropical V8 juice.

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Clive’s Classic Lounge
Chateau Victoria, 740 Burdett
11:30am-midnight daily
250-382-4221