Hurrah, the sun is back in town, or it’s at least going to be in the mid-20’s which counts for something. What does such glorious English Summer weather call for? Beautifully refreshing spirits and cocktails, that’s what! I’ve put 5 treats which scream CHILL below in the hopes you can add a little exploration to your weekend. Sit back, play that sea music pretending you’re on a beach somewhere gorgeous and be merry!
Whitley Neill Rhubarb & Ginger Gin
I’m a Yorkshire boy, so rhubarb will always have a place in my heart. But in all seriousness, there’s nothing better than a gin and tonic on a sunny day to soothe the soul and get you in the mood to relax. That bitter-sweet taste-bud tingling sensation of the ginger and rhubarb goes hand in hand. The tricky part is choosing your perfect tonic… do you go on the sweeter side, more savoury side or double up on the rhubarb?! Honestly, all three work; that bits up to you.
Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Buy now: £25
Duppy Share Spiced Rum
Oh Duppy, thank you for coming in our lives. This splendid rum screams pineapple, making it the perfect remedy for those rum sours as the sun sizzles. Or, if you fancy your hand at some mid-tier mixology, try out our Monkey Colada recipe, using this as the rum. Your guests will not be disappointed.
The craft rum itself offers a blend of spices brought together by a vibrant pineapple and rich kola nut. There’s caramel, ginger, white chocolate and vanilla with a touch of fresh grapefruit, orange and basil. I also find it rather versatile, meaning it would be the perfect match for mixing, whether it be with ginger ale, cola, or as part of a multitude of cocktails.
The best thing is, nothing is artificial, all flavours are 100% natural – just as the Caribbean intended.
Size: 70cl
ABV: 37.5%
Buy now: £24
The Muff Liquor Company Irish Potato Vodka
A glass of what, sorry? Well, there’s no need to be immature. (Yes, I thought exactly the same). MUFF is actually a town in Ireland, where this Liquor calls home. As for the potatoes, well, that was expected given the surplus on Ireland – but they come from some of the finest Irish potatoes in the world, allegedly!
….and that wouldn’t surprise me, because this vodka is delicious. Distilled a whopping SIX TIMES, the result is a clean, creamy earth liquid with a hint of vanilla and crème brulee. Say hello to a modern take on a classic generation.
Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Buy now: £36
Remy Martin 1738
Say hello to one of my all-time favourite cognacs. Remy’s 1738 is the ideal base for those sunny inspired sidecars (one of my favourite cocktails on this planet). It was originally named in honour of the ‘Accord Royal’ granted by King Louis XV to Remy Martin in 1738, allowing the firm to use his land to plant vines. It’s rich, full of character, complexity and creates an explosion of sun-fuelled flavoured all around your mouth. Sidecars aren’t going anywhere, so start exploring today.
Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Buy now: £43
Amplify
Quite possibly the most refreshing non-alcoholic spirit I’ve ever had the fortune of tasting. Amplify offers a citrus burst which instantly cools your palate. Sweet orange and lemon come together with bittersweet grapefruit rind, vanilla and a kiss of ginseng on the palate. Oh, it’s also vegan and gluten-free, just in case you were wondering.
But yes, a dash of your favourite tonic really brings out the sunshine in this fabulous no-alc wonder.
Size: 50cl
ABV: 0%
Buy now: £14