Dukes opens Cognac and cigars garden

London hotel Dukes in St James's has launched a new Cognac and cigar garden, as part of a newly refurbished outdoor area.

The garden, which is located off the hotel's drawing room, will serve Cognacs including its preferred house Cognac, Martell Cordon Bleu, with Cuban cigars supplied by Hunters and Frankau.

Dukes has also added a Cognac-theme cocktail to its menu, with the newly created "Ruby Windsor" cocktail, designed by the bar team especially for the garden.

The new-look garden will accommodate a maximum of 20 guests (seated) and boasts new soft furnishings, seating, lantern lighting and modern decking, as well as a hand-made wooden brandy cabinet.

General manager Debrah Dhugga said: "The inspiration for the garden came from our guests asking for an area where they could enjoy a cigar and nightcap while continuing to socialise in comfort and style. The Cognac and cigar garden is an example of how Dukes upholds tradition, but in a way that is welcoming and appealing to all our guests."

The garden is open all year round with heating in the winter; open from 8pm daily. A 50ml measure of Martell Cordon Bleu is priced at £12, a Ruby Windsor cocktail at £16.50 and cigars range from £16 to £36 each.

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By Neil Gerrard

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