New and Exciting Whiskies to Try

Words by Colin Hampden-White

There seems to be a new whisky release every few weeks these days. This can largely be attributed to the myriad of distilleries that started to distill a few years ago that now have spirit they can call whisk(e)y due to it having spent at least three years maturing in a barrel. I have tasted a great deal of them, and there are certainly whiskies which stand out in the crowd. Unsurprisingly, some of these come from outside of Scotland, but not all, and there is a particular whisky from the other side of the world which is already good and will get better and better with age. I’ll start off my recommendations in my home country and then range further afield giving my picks of whisky that is well worth discovering.

Nc’nean Organic Single Malt Whisky Batch 14

I have written about Nc’nean before with previous batches, and the consistency keeps on going. The batches are all very consistent and very good. The whisky is rich and fruity by using both wine and ex bourbon STR casks (shaved, toasted, re-chared). Added to that they are using 100% recycled bottles. A great start from one of Scotland’s newest distilleries.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £46.45

Isle of Raasay Batch R-02 Hebridean Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Continuing from the first whiskies produced by the Isle of Raasay distillery is a brilliant second batch. In the same tradition as the first, using peated and non-peated whisky, in various types of oak including American Oak Chinkapin and ex port pipes, this gives lots of red fruit flavours and rich honey with a soft bbq smoke running through the background. Even having been bottled at a slightly higher strength than most whiskies, it is still extremely smooth.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46.4%
Find here: £48

White Peak 2 year old (That Boutiqu-ey Malt Company)

I visited White Peak for the first time for the launch of their new whisky called Wire Works. The whisky is seriously impressive with big bold flavours using STR casks. The balance and depth of the whisky is akin to drams a great deal older, and had I tasted this whisky blind I would never have guessed it was little over three years old. There were only tiny amounts of the first release, so look out for further releases, but for now to get an idea of how good this whisky is, the chaps at That Boutiqu-ey Malt Company have bottled an excellent spirit from White Peak. It’s called spirit as it’s only two years old, but excellent all the same!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 50%
Find here: £49.95

Masthouse Single Malt

Masthouse Malt comes from one of the most southerly distilleries in England. Down in Kent, right on the coast, the Copper Rivet distillery is specialising in local barley malted in Kent from the Isle of Sheppey. The result is a fruity and complex whisky which has great balance. It manages to be mature and ready to drink whilst retaining its distillery and spirit character. It’s no mean feat, and a whisky I would certainly try if you’re after something new and exciting.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 45%
Find here: £39.95

Aber Falls Autumn 2021 release

Moving away from England we have only the second distillery to be built in Wales. At the foot of Snowdonia, Aber Falls is on the coast in a beautiful area that is well worth a trek to. They work with local farmers for their barley, so the whisky truly is from Wales. Using ex Pedro Ximénez, oloroso, bourbon casks and virgin oak casks, there are bountiful fruit flavours and a subtle underlying spice in this whisky. The whisky has lots of complexity with nuts and dark chocolate with coffee, zesty orange peel and vanilla toffee.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26

The Cardrona Growing Wings Solera – Sherry and Bourbon Cask

Hailing from the other side of the world in New Zealand is Cardrona. Their first batch “Just Hatched” was a huge success, and this next one is even more complex and fruity. Bottled at a huge 64.9%, it certainly packs a punch, but not so much as to blow your head off. It is surprisingly gentle on the nose and full of flavour. The wood and climate have certainly worked their magic. It’s an exotic whisky, and although quite pricy in comparison to other young whiskies, it is made in tiny amounts and is a real treat.

Size: 350ml
ABV: 64.9%
Find here: £73.99

Do you like Irish whiskey? If so, why not have a read of The Best Irish Whiskeys, or if you are a fan of an Old Fashioned Cocktail, how about checking out The Best Whiskies for an Old Fashioned?!

The Best Eco-Friendly Gins

Words by Leigh Andrews

With us all having to be more aware of the effect our lives have on our precious planet, we’ve found some great gins whose distillers are making a conscious effort to help us look after our environmental impact! From gin pouches through your letterbox, to refilling your bottle directly at the distillery, and even an innovative aluminium refill bottle, we’ve got a great selection so you can keep enjoying your gin knowing you’re doing your bit to help!

Rock Rose Pink Grapefruit Old Tom

Dunnet Bay Distillers, the super talented bunch behind Rock Rose, and recent winners of an Environmental/Sustainability award are stepping ever closer to their net-zero ambition with their fantastic fully recyclable pouches. They also have a refill rewards club where you can choose any one of their gorgeous gin pouches (or vodka) to be delivered with some extra little delicious free goodies including tonics, at intervals of your choice directly to your door! We chose this SUPERB Pink Grapefruit Old Tom, an incredibly well-balanced gin, with the delicious zest of fresh organic pink grapefruit peel and that gorgeous Old Tom signature sweetness lingering on the palate. Enjoy with a light tonic garnished with fresh pink grapefruit peel.

ABV: 41.5%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £32

Glaswegin Original London Dry Gin

One of those iconic bottles you want to keep on your shelf forever and the gin inside is no less of a talking point. Winner of World Gin Awards Best Scottish London Dry, Glaswegin not only provides a refill pouch for their amazing bottles, they also supply upcycling kits to turn your bottle into a soap dispenser (which they also sell refills for) or to keep the spotlight on that design winner….a Glaswegin Lamp Upcycling kit! To calm you down after all that homeware excitement, how about filling up your bottle and enjoying a bold, lightly sweet citrus gin that has an exceptionally smooth mouthfeel and a fresh finish, this is a no nonsense gin so serve simply with ice and tonic or we absolutely LOVE it with a sprig of fresh mint!

ABV: 41.1%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £32.95

Darnley's London Dry Gin

Truly a cottage industry, Darnley’s established their gin making in a cottage right next door to their Kingsbarns whisky distillery. Passionate about using all natural ingredients, many of their botanicals, including the feature Elderflower in their London Dry, are growing wild in their surrounding area. In their drive for sustainability, all of their original gins including their Spiced and Navy Strength are available in refill pouches. So how about popping a pouch of this fabulously floral London Dry into a picnic basket and enjoying a glorious lazy afternoon sipping on a Darnley’s and light tonic with a slice of lemon and a big dose of sunshine?!

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £28

Bullards Old Tom Gin

2020 Winners of The Gin Guide Sustainability Award, Bullards, as well as making AMAZING award winning Norwich gin are also passionate about reducing their carbon footprint. Encouraging their customers to keep their stunning bottles for life, Bullards has produced what we think is an exceptionally ergonomic refill pouch. Easy to pour and even easier to drink! You can choose from any one of their 4 exceptional gins, or why not try all of them, it would be rude not to! This Old Tom is wonderfully warming with pink pepper, rich fruity mango and luscious sweetness from Norfolk honey, lifted by gorgeous grapefruit citrus. Serve with tonic over ice with a slice of lemon or grapefruit for a true taste of Norwich!

ABV: 42.5%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £35

Wood Brothers Single Estate Gin

A true farm to bottle gin! Wood Brothers make their own base spirit using winter wheat grown on their Oxfordshire farm giving them full control of the quality going into their bottles. If that isn’t impressive enough they even reuse the waste water from the distilling process to heat the greenhouses to grow some of the botanicals such as lavender, rosemary and dill that go into this outstanding gin as well. Their stylish statement piece bottles deserve to be kept to grace your gin shelf. We LOVE this superbly smooth, aromatic gin with a light tonic and a sprig of rosemary, and it can absolutely hold its own in a classic Negroni or a gorgeous Martini!!!

ABV: 44%
Size: 500ml
Find Here: UK £27

And now some refills with a difference……..

There are some other options instead of pouches; if you are lucky enough to live near a local gin distillery you love, or even make a destination visit to, they could very well offer bottle refills where you take your empty bottle and they refill it for you for a discounted price! One absolute favourite is ….

Pickering’s Gin Navy Strength - bottle refill

In what was the old Edinburgh vet school animal hospital, lies Pickering’s Gin. Based on an inherited family recipe this exceptional gin is one you will keep wanting to refill that lovely little chunky bottle with, and in our case being the Navy Strength that little bottle comes with its very own Bearskin - not a real Bearskin we hasten to add but a perfect little replica! And you NEVER have to throw it away because if you treat yourself to a visit to the distillery, one of the lovely team will happily refill your bottle, it's like the everlasting gobstopper of the gin world! In Original or Navy Strength, they even let you attempt to do a wax resealing…I need a lot more lessons, my attempt was described as  “unique”! Just as well it has a hat to cover it! 

Bring out the wonderful spices of cardamom and anise, and the sweetness of the fennel in this gorgeous gin in a simple serve with tonic, ice and a generous squeeze of lime! 

ABV: 57.1%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: Pickering's Distillery 15% discount for refills

And last but definitely not least is this fabulous Refill Project innovation from London Spirits Competition Gold Award Winners Isle of Harris……created as part of an ongoing refill solutions experiment…

Isle of Harris Gin - Aluminium Refill Bottle

Anyone familiar with the absolutely beautiful Isle of Harris gin knows it comes in an equally beautiful bottle evocative of the wind-blown seas around the Isle. It’s a bottle that nobody wants to part with and now you don’t have to! Looking for an easily recyclable refill solution, they’ve come up with a ‘top-up’ subscription where you will be sent your gin monthly in a 500ml aluminium bottle, to regularly top up your existing 700ml gin….the neverending bottle!!. With aluminium being the most cost-effective material to recycle this is a great alternative to recycling the glass bottle…and who would want to! This wonderfully refreshing gin with that delicious sweet saltiness umami of the sugar kelp and that warming peppery finish is a gorgeous sipping gin!  If you want to get that WOW factor, serve it with a good tonic, a few drops of sugar kelp water and garnish with pink grapefruit! 

ABV: 45% 
Size: 500ml
Find Here: 12 month subscription see website for details

Wondering what to add your gin to? Then, have a gander at The Most Popular Gin Cocktails. If you're looking for more gin-ius (see what we did there?!) suggestions, then why not check out these Colour Changing Gins?!

The Best Tequila cocktails

Words by Ana Patterson

Everyone knows someone who ‘hates tequila’ and the chances are that a past experience with one too many tequila shots is to blame! There are some stunning tequilas and some equally stunning tequila-based cocktails out there that are well worth a try though. So, take that lime wedge out of your hand and pop it in the base of a cocktail shaker, you’re about to look at tequila in a whole new light.

Spicy Tommy’s Margarita

Once you’ve had this cocktail, you’ll never go back. You’ll also transcend reality. You might even run down the street barefoot shouting with joy because THIS. COCKTAIL. IS. AMAZING… have we convinced you to try it yet?! Top Tip: the spiciness of this cocktail depends on the chilli, so make sure you know what you’re dealing with before you start shaking ;)

Ingredients
1 slice of deseeded and chopped chilli
60ml reposado tequila
15ml agave syrup
30ml lime juice
top of a chilli pepper for the garnish (deseeded) 

Method
Muddle the sliced chilli in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add the other ingredients and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well-chilled and fine strain into an ice filled rocks glass.

Añejo Old Fashioned

Massive whisky afficiando at the tequila party? There’s often one… However much they might insist that nothing will beat their whisky, you must insist harder that this Añejo Old Fashioned is very much worth their time. The aged Añejo tequila provides oaky notes, spice and flavours of roasted agave which is bound to put a smile on even their face.

Ingredients
60ml añejo tequila
7.5ml agave syrup
1 dash Angostura bitters
orange peel

Method
Add the tequila, agave syrup and bitters to a tumbler with a big ice cube and stir well for around 30 seconds to combine. Garnish with the orange peel.

Tequila Mockingbird

Like the pun?! If not, off to the library with you it is! If you’re going for the classy, progressive Atticus Finch look - you’re going to need one of these in your hand. We’re not sure how the watermelon fits in with the novel, but it sure fits into the cocktail well!

Ingredients
50ml blanco tequila
15ml lime juice
15ml agave syrup
3 watermelon cubes
1 slice jalapeño 

Method
Muddle the watermelon cubes and jalapeño in the bottom of the cocktail shaker. Add the other ingredients and fill with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled and fine strain into a glass over ice.

Frozen Margarita

It may not quite be summer, but we’re certainly not far off now. That calls for the summer drink of all summer drinks - the Frozen Margarita! This is basically a margarita slushie and the recipe is the same as a normal margarita - just with added ice and a blender. Blend it baby!

Ingredients
50ml blanco tequila
25ml Cointreau
25ml lime juice
15ml sugar syrup
large handful of ice
wedge of lime to garnish 

Method
Place all the ingredients in a blender, excluding the lime wedge, and blend until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass and garnish with a wedge of lime. Enjoy!

Tequila Sunrise

It may be called a sunRISE, but we recommend you drink these at sunset instead… The name actually comes from what the drink looks like when it’s in the glass. For this reason, don’t stir in the grenadine when you pour it in or it will ruin the beautiful ombre effect that the different colours give! Don’t look at it for too long, however, because it’s really all about the flavours! Refreshing and fruity, this long tequila drink is one to note down.

Ingredients
100ml orange juice
50ml blanco tequila
30ml grenadine
maraschino cherry and orange wheel for garnish

Method
Fill a large glass with ice and pour in orange juice and tequila. Pour over the grenadine and do not stir. Garnish with the cherry and orange wheel. Enjoy!

Paloma

According to legend, the Paloma is named after a popular Mexican folk song written in the 1860s! Now isn’t that a fun fact! The grapefruit juice and grapefruit soda in this cocktail gives it a wonderful tang that tastes great with the blanco tequila. It’s super easy to make, and has a really pretty pink tinge to it that looks perfect with a grapefruit wheel garnish!

Ingredients
50ml blanco tequila
25ml grapefruit juice
12.5ml lime juice
7.5ml agave syrup
50ml pink grapefruit soda
wheel of grapefruit for garnish 

Method
Shake the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice and agave syrup with ice until well chilled. Strain into a tall glass and top up with grapefruit soda. Garnish with a wheel of grapefruit.

Bloody Maria

Had enough of Bloody Marys? Ready to move onto something a little different? Try a Bloody Maria! While the name might not be totally inventive (with Maria being Spanish for Mary), the swap of vodka for tequila really elevates this classic cocktail and gives it an extra hit of flavour not achieved by the vodka. Let us know if you have a go!

Ingredients
50ml blanco tequila
100ml tomato juice
12.5ml lemon juice
1tsp horseradish
3 dashes tabasco
3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch celery salt
1 pinch black pepper
lime wedge for garnish
lemon wedge for garnish
celery stick for garnish 

Method
Add all ingredients except for garnishes to an ice filled shaker and shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a glass over ice and garnish with a lemon wedge, lime wedge and celery stick. Extra chilli optional!

Mexican Mule

We love super simple cocktails, and so today we’re travelling to the other side of the world to mix up a Mexican Mule! Tequila and lime are always a perfect match, but putting them with ginger beer really takes things up a notch and creates a delicious cocktail that is easy to make and very easy to drink!

Ingredients
60ml reposado tequila
15ml lime juice
10ml agave syrup/sugar syrup
good quality ginger beer
lime wedge for garnish

Method
Add the tequila, lime juice and agave syrup/sugar syrup to an ice filled cocktail shaker and shake until ice cold. Strain into an ice filled glass and top up with ginger beer. Garnish with a wedge of lime and enjoy!

If you want to read more tequila recommendations, have a look at The Best Tequilas for Margaritas or The World’s Best Sipping Tequilas!

3 Ways to Get Better at Smelling Wine

[Partnership post with TasterPlace]

They say that the more you know about something, the more interesting you find it and nowhere is this more true than in the wonderful world of wine. The good news is, you can train your nose over a relatively short amount of time to pick out more complex smells in wine. The great news is, however, that any kind of smelling practice can have hugely positive effects on your wellbeing and can even help to stave off degenerative diseases like Alzheimers! Never has there been more reason to pay even more attention to what’s in your wine glass, so in this article, you will find three ways to help you do that better. 

What are the benefits of smelling practice?

Last year during lockdown, we put together this piece on the benefits of certain scents on our wellbeing, such as lavender for sleep or sandalwood for focus and calm. There are also links to articles on the psychology of smell with emotion and memory as well how we can stave off Dementia with smelling practice. One study, published in the Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, also states that wine experts and those who work with olfaction-based industries such as perfume-making are less likely to develop Alzheimer's and Dementia compared to those in other professions. This is because those who train their noses in this way have ‘enhanced’, stronger or thicker parts of the brain that are tied to smell and memory. This is super important as it is these areas that are also linked to neurodegenerative diseases. 

Practice picking out aromas in wine

When first getting started with wine, it all just smells like… well.. wine, doesn’t it? We go to tastings and hear the expert bang on about crunchy red fruits or stewed purple plums and think, really? Is it possible to get that specific? Suddenly though, as soon as a specific smell is mentioned then wham! You find it right there. Has this happened to you? As one of those ‘experts’, I'm here to tell you that it is not all suggestive rubbish; the more you dive in and pay attention, the more you really do ‘see’ or in this case, smell. Here are three ways you can get better at playing the wine aroma detective:

1. Pay attention. That’s right! Just like driving a car after doing it for years, often when we drink wine, we literally just drink it without thinking about what it tastes like. Instead, ask yourself some questions: Does the aroma jump out of the glass or is it more reserved? Does it smell very fruity and if so, what kind of fruit? Can you pinpoint it? Is it blackcurranty like Ribena or more tart like cherries? Or maybe it’s jammy like ripe strawberries? The same goes for anything that isn’t fruit. Is it herbaceous? Are there hints of spices? If so, always ask yourself what kind!

2. Compare and contrast. Wine on its own tastes just like wine. With two or more, however, you will be able to play spot the difference. Take two different grape varieties for example, like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Compare their looks; which one is more cherry red and which is more purple black? Next, compare the aromas. Is one more like raspberry or cherry and the other like cassis? Comparison is good because it’s the differences between them that help you learn. If ever you need an excuse for that second glass of wine, this is it!

3. Invest in a smelling kit. One very simple and effective way to regularly boost your sniffing skills is to invest in a blind smelling kit. This way, you can test yourself a little every day and start getting very specific about the exact notes that you are picking out in your favourite glass of wine - and all without feeling obliged to pop several corks a day! Kits such as the AROMAS made by TasterPlace come with small vials of aromatic oils, each with a specific scent often found in wine. The white wine kit, for example, has twelve vials of aromas, each numbered underneath so you can test yourself again and again until you can get them all right. Learn how to spot the difference between lemon and grapefruit, pear and green apple, honey and butter - and more! 

TasterPlace AROMAS collections 

Italian-owned TasterPlace currently has five kits on offer: one for red wine, one for white wine, one for beer, one for olive oil and one for chocolate. There are twelve vials in each kit as well as a full tasting guide that talks you through colour and flavour as well as aromatics. The aroma samples are produced with stable aromatic solutions which means they can be used over time without losing their intensity. They come in elegant black boxes the size of a hardback book and we think they make amazing gifts for the wine lover in your life! 

The AROMAS collections are on sale on TasterPlace’s website www.tasterplace.com, where you can also find a variety of information on the world of tasting and the TasterPlace blog.

6 Cocktails Perfect for Easter

This year the weather looks set to be beautiful over the Easter bank holiday, so why not indulge in a cocktail or two before you dive into those Easter eggs?! Whether you love gin or vodka, or whiskey or rum, there is a cocktail waiting for you to try.

For the Gin Lover: Royal Tea Cocktail

This may well be our favourite cocktail in the guide as it combines two well-loved drinky treats all in one delicious cocktail; gin and tea! Super easy to mix up and so refreshing, this really is the perfect cocktail to mix up during a lazy Easter Sunday.

Ingredients
45ml London Dry Gin
60ml chilled, freshly brewed Earl Grey tea
1 splash lemon juice to taste
1 tsp sugar to taste
Garnish with a lemon wheel

Method
Pour the gin and chilled Earl Grey tea into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice and add the lemon juice and sugar to taste. Stir well, garnish with a lemon wheel and enjoy!

For the Whiskey Lover: Whiskey Daisy

A favourite among whiskey lovers, this cocktail has many variations all of which are as easy to whip up as the next. The smokiness of the whiskey in this particular version combines beautifully with the complex flavours of the orange liqueur and the lemon juice and syrup tie all the flavours together perfectly leading to a cocktail you will be coming back for more of!

Ingredients
60ml (Smoky) Bourbon whiskey
30ml lemon juice
7.5ml simple syrup
15ml Grand Marnier
Sparkling water/club soda 

Method
Pour the whiskey, Grand Marnier, lemon juice and syrup into a cocktail shaker. Add crushed ice and shake for 30 seconds until the shaker is cold to touch. Strain the chilled ingredients into a cocktail glass and top up with a splash of soda!

N.B. the whiskey will be the main stand out flavour in this cocktail so make sure you choose a premium one.

For the Champagne lover: French 77

It’s light, it’s refreshing, it’s floral and it’s sparkling… it truly is the perfect drink to enjoy at your Easter party.

Ingredients
30ml St. Germain
7.5ml lemon juice
120ml Champagne
Lemon twist for garnish 

Method
Pour the St. Germain and lemon juice into a flute, top up with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist. Simple!

N.B. It is best to use a Brut champagne because of the elderflower liqueur’s sweetness. If you find the elderflower to be too sweet, lessen the amount you add to the cocktail until you find the right balance for you.

For the Tequila Lover: Paloma

Refreshing and so easy to make the earthy flavours of the tequila blend beautifully with the tartness of the grapefruit for an Easter cocktail that is bound to be a big crowd pleaser.

Ingredients
60ml Tequila
15ml freshly squeezed lime juice
Grapefruit soda
Lime wedge to garnish 

Method
Add the tequila and lime juice to the glass and fill it with ice. Top it off with the grapefruit soda stirring gently to combine, garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

For the Rum Lover: Old Cuban Cocktail

Luxurious, minty and downright delicious, this cocktail was only invented in the early 2000s and is already a firm favourite of cocktail enthusiasts. It takes inspiration from the Mojito, with added complexity from the bitters all wrapped in a delicious champagne scarf. There truly is nothing not to like about it!

Ingredients
4 fresh mint leaves
45ml Havana Club 7yo rum
22.5ml freshly squeezed lime juice
15ml Monin Pure Cane Sugar Syrup
2 dashes of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
22.5ml Champagne
Garnish with a mint leaf. 

Method
Shake the mint leaves, rum, lime juice, sugar syrup and bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Then, strain into a chilled coupe glass before topping with champagne and garnishing with a mint leaf.

N.B. The sparkling wine used here really makes a difference so if you are not a big fan of the champagne version, try mixing it up with prosecco or crémant instead. Prosecco will bring more fruit to the cocktail whereas the crémant will give a drier flavour.

For the Vodka Lover: Chocolate Martini

Rich, creamy and downright indulgent, this is a chocoholics delight. We couldn’t complete our Easter cocktail guide without a cheeky chocolate cocktail now could we?!

Ingredients
50ml Irish Cream Liqueur
50ml Chocolate liqueur (Godiva)
100ml vodka 

Method
Combine all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake well until the outside of the shaker is cold to touch. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with shaved chocolate. NOM!

Wondering what to pair all that Easter chocolate with? Why not have a look at these Epic Whisky and Chocolate Pairings?!

5 Epic Whisky and Chocolate Pairings

By Helena Nicklin

Whisky and chocolate is a match you might not immediately think of but once you try it, you will never go back! The warming alcohol cleanses the palate perfectly while the individual notes of each whisky, be it dried fruit, tar, seaweed or citrus, perfectly complement many types of chocolate, especially the really good, hand-made stuff. Here are some basic whisky and chocolate pairings that have been tried and tested, then tried and tested all over again - just for you, of course.

How to taste whisky with chocolate

The best way to get the most out of your whisky and chocolate pairing is to take a sip of whisky first and let the flavour expand in your mouth. Swallow and then take a small bit of chocolate, allowing it to melt slowly on your tongue, its flavours gradually mingling with those of the whisky. Follow up with another small sip and enjoy. Tip: Use high-quality chocolate where you can to make the most of the flavour matches. 

Five Epic Whisky and Chocolate Pairings 

MILK CHOCOLATE WITH FRUIT & NUT

Whisky style: Light, floral and fruity.

Fruity whiskies, especially lighter, aromatic ones with notes of orchard fruit, love nuts, be they hazelnut, almond or pecan. Neither the milk chocolate nor the whisky will overpower each other and the fruit and nut flavours combine to make an irresistible, elegant pairing. 

Try: Aberfeldy 12 year old
ABV: 46%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £42.50 // US $44.99

SALTED CARAMEL

Whisky style: Saline, maritime and complex.

Salted caramel everything has taken the world by storm these past few years and a complex, saline whisky with a subtle umami note will send your tastebuds bonkers with the juxtaposition of sweet caramel and salty flavours.

Try: Ardbeg Corryvreckan
ABV: 57.1%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £74.75 // US $139.99

DARK CHOCOLATE WITH DRIED FRUIT

Whisky style: Dark, rich and fruit-cakey.

If you’re into darker versions of fruit and nut, maybe even with the odd dried cherry, try an age statement whisky that’s seen a few different barrels including sherry casks. These whiskies are often described as tasting of ‘Christmas cake’. They’re a match made in heaven with so many flavours to play with. 

Try: The Dalmore 12 Year Old
ABV: 40%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £60.50 // US $76.99

ORANGE CHOCOLATE

Whisky style: Smooth, toffee and orange citrusy.

High quality orange chocolate begs for an equally smooth partner with bold notes of orange citrus fruit, honey and vanilla spice to elevate its flavours. Find a Bourbon with a splash of rye in the mash bill for pure indulgence and a spicy kick that will have you coming back for more.

Try: Woodford Reserve, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV: 43.2%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £27 // US $31.98

DARK MINT CHOCOLATE

Whisky style: Peated, medicinal and smoky.

Medicinal, peaty whiskies, such as those found on Islay can knock you for six with their power. Pairing them with a peppermint flavoured dark chocolate, however, creates a refreshing kind of menthol alchemy. It’s the perfect way to end a meal and will leave a memorable impression.

Try: Lagavulin 16 Year Old
ABV: 43%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £79.50 // US $119.99

Still looking for some chocolate-y goodness? Why not check out these Delicious Chocolate-themed Alcoholic Drinks?

*Prices last updated in March 2024.

8 Delicious Gins for a G&T

Spring is at last upon us, the days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and a G&T in the garden is becoming a more and more appealing thought. But, with so many gins out there, it can be hard to know which to try. A good G&T comes down to a good gin so we have brought to you our favourites from this year so far, so you can mix your next G&T up with confidence.

58 Gin English Berry

This multi-award-winning gin is a berry-focused expression from the folks at 58 Gin. Slow berries which have been distilled as well as macerated are used in the creation of the spirit, leading to a crystal clear gin with a beautiful balance of citrus and savoury flavours. Mix it with your favourite premium tonic and garnish with a slice of grapefruit. Nom!

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £38

Adnams Copper House

This is Adnams’ best-selling gin and we are not surprised in the slightest. Made using six botanicals including orange peel, hibiscus and coriander, it is delicate and floral with subtle hints of spice and is jam-packed full of flavour. Mix it with your favourite premium tonic water and garnish with fresh orange peel for a knock out G&T!

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £22 currently on offer at Sainsburys £28 normally.  

An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin

If you’re looking for something slightly different to your traditional citrussy, juniper forward gins then this is it. All the way from County Donegal in Ireland, An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin contains five different varieties of locally-harvested seaweed alongside its other botanicals leading to a delicious savoury gin with gentle heat and a subtle lemon sweetness. It’s a perfect starting point for those looking to get into gin and a delicious option for those already converted! Try it with lemon tonic and a slice of lemon as a garnish for a mouth-wateringly good G&T.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43.2%
Find here: £29.25

Bullards Coastal gin

Imagine sitting by the ocean, the waves gently rushing to the shore and the wind in your hair – that’s this gin in a glass. Inspired by the Norfolk coastline, its botanicals of sea purslane, marsh samphire and sea aster, impart a subtle saline note to the gin which is beautifully complemented with citrus. For a sweeter G&T mix it with your favourite tonic and garnish with blackberries. Or, for a more savoury take on it, garnish with rosemary or cucumber.

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £36  

Bulldog London Dry Gin

Made with poppy, lotus leaves, lavender, almond and dragon eye to name just a few of the 12 botanicals, this gin really packs in the flavour. It is quadruple distilled in copper pot stills giving it a beautifully smooth and crisp finish to boot. Try it mixed with your favourite premium tonic and a handful of blackberries as a garnish, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a slice of grapefruit and fresh ground black pepper!

ABV: 40%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £21.95  // US $24.98

Glendalough Wild Botanical Gin

Using botanicals hand foraged from the Wicklow Mountains, the amount of care that goes into creating this gin is inspiring. With pine, juniper, herbaceous and floral notes it makes for a gorgeous G&T. You can see more about how the botanicals are hand foraged in Episode Four of The Three Drinkers in Ireland. Enjoy this gin with your favourite tonic, a twist of lemon and a sprig of mint for a delicious G&T!

ABV: 41%
Size: US 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: US £33.75 // US $28.99

Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla

One sip of this gin and you’ll be picturing yourself sitting under the warm Mediterranean sun looking out over the rolling hills. Inspired by a recipe first written over 140 years ago by Charles Tanqueray on a visit to the orange groves of Spain, this gin is citrus-focussed, with crisp juniper, peppery coriander, and sweet liquorice. Try it with your favourite premium tonic and an orange wedge garnish… trust us, you won’t be disappointed!

ABV: 41.3%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £25 // $29.99

Whitley Neill Oriental Spiced Gin

This brand new spiced gin from Whitley Neill will take you on a journey to the Orient with its exotic flavours and aromas. Think gentle spice from cardamom with sweet citrus, followed by notes of cumin perfectly complimenting the juniper. It’s rich and fragrant with a long elegant finish. Mix it with premium Indian tonic water, and garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange wedge for a real treat!

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £26

Wondering which tonic to use in your G&T? Check out The Best Tonic Water for your G&T and if it’s garnish inspiration you’re after then how about having a read of The Best Ready Made Garnishes for a G&T.

The Best Old Fashioned Variations

Crowned the most popular cocktail in the world, the Old Fashioned is loved by many, and whilst it can’t be denied that the traditional recipe is an absolute cracker, there are many variations of it that, in our honest opinion, are just as good. So, without further ado let us introduce you to some of our favourite takes on an Old Fashioned.

The Traditional Old Fashioned

A timeless classic. The Old Fashioned cocktail has been around since the mid-1800s and is still just as popular today as it was back then.

Ingredients
60ml rye whiskey
1 sugar cube
3 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel to garnish
Maraschino cherry to garnish

Method
Place the sugar cube in a tumbler and dash the bitters on top of it. Muddle to mix. Add the whiskey, fill the glass with ice, and stir for 30 seconds to combine. Twist the orange peel over the drink before putting it into the glass. Add the cherry garnish and you're done!

Rum Old Fashioned

A great take on an Old Fashioned, the dark rum provides oaky notes which work beautifully with the zestiness from the bitters.

Ingredients
50ml dark rum
1 tsp sugar syrup
2 dashes Angostura orange bitters
Orange peel to garnish

Method
Put all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir until the glass feels cold. Strain into a tumbler over a large ice cube and garnish with the orange peel.

Tequila Old Fashioned

Smooth and savoury, it is an utterly delicious Old Fashioned variation. The aged Añejo tequila provides oaky notes, spice and flavours of roasted agave. YUM!

Ingredients
60 ml Añejo tequila
7.5 ml Simple syrup
1 dash Angostura Bitters
Orange peel to garnish

Method
Add the tequila, simple syrup and bitters to a tumbler with a big ice cube and stir well for around 30 seconds to combine. Garnish with the orange peel.

Gin Old Fashioned

Another great take on an Old Fashioned the Old Tom gin adds a less botanical, sweeter flavour to the cocktail than a London dry gin would while the orange bitters and lemon add a nice citrusy twist.

Ingredients
60ml Old Tom gin
7.5ml simple syrup
2 dashes of orange bitters
Lemon peel to garnish

Method
Add the simple syrup, bitters, and gin in a tumbler with ice and stir for 30 seconds to combine. Garnish with lemon peel and enjoy!

Maple Old Fashioned

Sweet and smooth, the maple brings out the warm, rich, caramel-y flavors in the bourbon perfectly.

Ingredients
60ml Bourbon whiskey
10ml Maple Syrup
2 dash Angostura bitters
Crispy bacon, for garnish

Method
Put the ingredients into a tumbler with ice and stir well to combine. Garnish with a 1/2 slice of crispy bacon. Top Tip: You can substitute the bourbon for rum here to make an equally good maple rum Old Fashioned.

Honey Old Fashioned

Good for someone just getting into whisky, this variation is lighter and sweeter than a traditional old fashioned but just as delicious!

Ingredients
60ml Scotch whisky
15ml honey syrup (1 part honey to 1 part water)
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
2 dashes of orange bitters

Method
Add the whisky, honey syrup, and bitters into a tumbler with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well combined and chilled. Garnish with an orange peel twist.

Warm Old Fashioned

Perfect for chilly days this cocktail has the same great taste as the classic Old Fashioned and could even rival a Hot Toddy in our opinion!

Ingredients
60ml Bourbon whiskey
1 sugar cube
3 dashes Angostura bitters
1 x Orange slice
1 x Maraschino cherry
60ml hot (not boiling) water

Method
Muddle the sugar cube, bitters, orange slice and Maraschino cherry in a mixing glass. Add the whiskey and mix well then strain into a glass mug. Top up with around 60ml of hot water and enjoy!

Looking for other cocktail variations? Make sure you check out The 10 Best Martini Variations and The Best Margarita Variations!