Six Amarettos You Need to Try (And How To Make Your Own…)

Amaretto is one of the most popular liqueurs on the planet and easily one of Italy’s biggest exports. Recipes date back nearly 500 years, and it’s easy to see why the bittersweet, almond-forward liqueur has stood the test of time. Did you know, despite the flavour profile of amaretto being dominated by almonds, very often there are no almonds present? Instead, the liqueur is infused with apricot kernels and peaches to give it its distinctive flavour.

There’s a surprisingly thin layer of quality Amaretto on the market (in the U.K at least) - the very finest Amarettos balance sweetness with bitter almond to make them the perfect ingredient for the classic Amaretto Sour or Godfather, or even just to sip with coke. Here are six Amarettos you need that would make an Italian blush: 

Adriatico 

The first thing you’ll notice when you try Adriatico is the mouthfeel - less syrupy but just as mouth-fulfilling as any high quality amaretto out there. A higher ABV is the culprit, along with an organic approach to crafting a high end liqueur that includes macerating hand-picked, roasted almonds and adding cinnamon, cocoa and vanilla to create a balanced, well rounded amaretto. This could easily be the missing ingredient in any high end cocktail that needs something special to sweeten the deal.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 28%
Find here: £32.20

Joseph Cartron Amaretto

Family owned, French purveyors of fantastic wines and liqueurs, Joseph Cartron offer this excellent amaretto bursting with the rich flavour of green almonds. Great as a digestif or cocktail ingredient with fresh, floral aromas and heavy bitter almond on the palate. Joseph Cartrons production processes are highly protected secrets, but it’s no secret that they make excellent quality liqueurs. Try this in their recommended “hot punch”, with Martinique Rhum, fresh pineapple chunks, Joseph Cartron Amaretto, Fino Sherry and Orange peel - served hot! A must-try.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £18.23

Quaglia

If you’ve read this far you’ve likely noticed a pattern, that many Amarettos are products of rich family history, and Quaglia is no exception with their late 1800s recipe. The Antica distillery - who make this fine product - are known for their impeccable attention to detail, high quality products and recipes passed down through generations. This may feel like an Amaretto for grown ups, but still balances perfectly into a fun, classic Amaretto sour! Quaglia Amaretto is bursting with almonds, fruits and floral notes that delight the palate and are enjoyed neat just as well as in a cocktail.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £21.48

Lazzaroni Amaretto 

Some say the Lazzaroni family were the very first to create the liqueur we know today as Amaretto. The recipe in the bottle is the same as the one they used as far back as 1851 which includes baking their own Amaretti Chiostro di Saronno biscuits and infusing them into the liqueur alongside apricot kernels and distilled cocoa. The result is a delightfully aromatic Amaretto with notes of milk chocolate, marzipan and tropical fruits.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 24%
Find here: £21.74

Luxardo Amaretto Di Saschira

Italian master liqueur creators, Luxardo continue to prove why they’re on top of the liqueur world with their Amaretto, which gets its distinctive almond flavour from the essential oils contained in the pits of cherries, peaches and apricots. This award winning, vegan and GMO free liqueur boasts notes of black tea tannins, bitter almond and battenberg. Enjoy over ice or in any classic Amaretto cocktail…

Size: 700ml
ABV: 24%
Find here: £19.50

How to make your own amaretto liqueur 

Is it cheating to count your very own Amaretto as the sixth bottle we’re featuring today? Maybe, but we all love a good hack, and while you may not possess generations of family recipes, creating something akin to a classic Amaretto is easier than you might think, and comes with all the added benefits of customization. Below, you’ll find a baseline recipe, but you can mix things up by: 

• Changing the base spirit. 

• Adding spices. Try cinnamon, clove, star anise or even cardamom. 

• Adding lemon, lime or orange zest. 

• Increasing or decreasing the sugar content. 

Homemade Amaretto Liqueur: 

For simplicity, add all ingredients to a large container and leave to infuse in a room temperature location, away from light for 2-3 days or until all sugar has dissolved. Shake once a day to incorporate and taste regularly. Strain out any solids and pour into a bottle. This should keep for at least a few months, if not indefinitely. Congrats! You’ve made a delicious homemade Amaretto! What can’t you do?

700ml Rum (any rum will do, but avoid spiced rum, as this is already sweetened and spiced and will overwhelm the almond) 
300g Brown Sugar
50ml Almond extract 
25ml vanilla extract 
50g Toasted almonds (simply pop them under the grill until browned and fragrant

Looking to expand your liqueur collection further? Check out these Eight Irresistable Coffee Liqueurs

By Miley Kendrick

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Sainsbury’s May/June 2024

Sainsbury’s shoppers and wine lovers, we’re back with some offers you cannot miss. We’ve been through every bottle on offer until the 6th June, and this is the cream of the crop when it comes to undeniable value. Reds, Rosé and Whites, and almost all for under £10. Let’s dive in.

Sainsbury’s Red Wines May/June 2024

Santodeno Sangiovese Appassimento

We love this Emilia-Romagna Sangiovese because it’s one of the best value reds in any supermarket. The grapes are hand-picked before being slow-dried enhancing the jammy richness. With intense blackberry, cherry, and vanilla, it’s such easy drinking liquid but with a great vein of acidity. Midweek Italian? Perfect.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Greasy Fingers Luscious Red

Forever popular, this is a moreish mix of Ozzy Shiraz and Grenache. The former fills out the expression with characterful rich fruits and the latter brings that signature sweetness. Luscious is the name, luscious is the game.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Bosman Nero

This is 100% Nero d’Avola from Wellington, South Africa that has sprung from just two surviving Sicilian cuttings in 2004. It packs a lot of juicy cranberries and strawberries for a light-bodied red and a lovely kiss of clean spice. The modern feel is very elegant and makes for extremely easy drinking.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £10 (usually £11.50)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Wines May May/June 2024

Castillo De Ibiza Rosé

This seductive curvaceous bottle sets high expectations and more importantly meets them. A Spanish salmon pink Garnacha and Tempranillo Rosé, it’s much tarter and more refreshing than most pink pours. Expect cutting citrus and palate cleansing minerality, with a fainter kiss of strawberry.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £10 (usually £12.50)

Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Île-de-Beauté Rosé

One of our favourite offers, this is such a loveable blend of Niellucciu, Sciaccarellu, Grenache, Vermentinu and Syrah. It’s a dry Corsica Rosé with a floral bouquet, ripe berries palate and fleshy stone fruits. A gentle crack of pink pepper provides a nice tingle on the finish too. If you just stick to reds and whites, try this.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Berne Inspiration Côtes de Provence

Something a touch pricier now, but still punching above its price point at £15. It’s a Château de Berne blend Grenache supported by Cinsault and Syrah, and a masterful showcase for this style. Strawberry ice cream comes to mind with citrus undertones and subtle melon. The length is really impressive too and the dryness makes so easy to keep coming back.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £15 (usually £17)

Sainsbury’s White Wines May/June 2024

Sainsbury's Riverblock Marlborough Sauvignon, Taste the Difference

Marlborough Sauvignon lovers, listen up. There are so many to pick from these days but we don’t think you’ll be disappointed by this. The freshness is impactful off the bat, with a mineral cleanliness to the palate. But this is no wallflower, because the zesty tropical notes and big body can stand up to hearty dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Rocca Murer Pinot Grigio Trentino

This Trentino wine stands out from your run of the mill Pinot Grigios with some curious mineral notes and surprising complexity. It’s crisp with light citrus, ripe peach, and intriguing grassy notes. It’s such an easy-going, lightweight ride that it would be a dream with vegetarian and fish dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Sainsbury's Jurançon Sec, Taste the Difference

In the sun-coated foothills of the Pyrenees is Jurançon, known for its unique, indigenous grapes like the Gros and Petit Manseng used here. What you’ll usually find is that these are towards the sweeter end, and though this does bring some tangerine sweetness, it’s far zestier and drier than you expect – a nice surprise. It’s very distinct and refreshing, so if you want to try something different this is a good bet.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £7.50 (usually £9)

Sturmwolken Riesling

Striking bottle this. It’s an off-dry Riesling with generous zesty vibrance – most notably lime. The tang of grapefruit and interesting minerality of stone fruits wash away any sweetness that rears its head, with good acidity making this a winner for spicy dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £7 (usually £8)

*The bottles featured underneath are no longer available as deals this month!*

Sainsbury’s Red Wines May 2024

Feuerheerd's Anchor Wine Reserva Douro DOC

This is a refined Portuguese red hailing from the heart of Douro. When you’re sipping it, you’ll wonder how they get so much spicy depth and rich back fruits. The answer is a year of Vintage Port finishing. Bold but perfectly nuanced. For a tenner, wow.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £11.50)

Santodeno Negroamaro

This inky red began life at the sunny heel of Italy’s boot, making great use of the ‘bitter black’ grape. The result is intense richness and dark fruits galore – plum, blackberry and blackcurrant. There’s a welcome touch of oaky spice rounding things off too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Mucho Mas Vino Tinto

We love spotting this in offer. For just £7, it’s an absolute bargain. Mucho Mas remain family-owned, despite expansion, and this Spanish red is one of their best value bottles. It’s as red as red gets, with ripe, jammy berries sliding into bright fig and plum. Add a crack of black pepper and vanilla undertone, and you’ve got one hell of an easy-drinking glugger.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.50)

Wise Wolf Cabernet Sauvignon

Off the bat, Wise Wolf stands out for their stumpy bottle made from 100% recycled glass. It looks more like posh olive oil than wine, but we like it. Inside, we’ve got Languedoc-Roussilon Red. It’s oaky and brimming with black fruit flavours on the nose and in the mouth. It isn’t overly dry either. Great with steak, but let it breathe for an hour before enjoying.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £12)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Wines May 2024

Silver Moki Sauvignon Blush

Think Rosé is all too sweet? Try this. The crisp Sauvignon Blanc really shines, bringing razor sharp citrus. Softening that is juicy peach and subtly sweet strawberry, but both much milder than most Rosé blends. Sophisticated and punches well above its price point.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Villa Maria Blush Sauvignon

What a lovely light Rosé this is. It pours such a delicate and seductive pale pink, with strawberries and raspberries hitting the nose. Kiwis join the red berries after the first sip, as well as grapefruit tang. Refreshing, sweet where it needs to be, and citrus to cut through – hard not to like.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Sainsbury’s White Wines May 2024

Mud House Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

There’s a lot of competition in the Marlborough Sauvignon space at the moment, so gems like this are a godsend. The crispness is super intense with overwhelming refreshment. Beyond that, a tropical tang breaks through as well as a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel. Pair with seafood and enjoy.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

19 Crimes Chard

19 Crimes are a source of top-notch value across the board. Their Chard brings a rich quality to the stone fruit notes present, but what we think you’ll love most about it is the creamy, full boy with plenty of butter. Opulent Ozzy white.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury's New Zealand Pinot Gris, Taste the Difference

Sainsbury’s’ Taste the Difference range is quite a rich vein for bargains like this New Zealand Pinot Gris. It’s medium dry, mellow, and fruit-forward – think peach and melon. The classic Marlborough steely minerality is present too, leaving a clean feel that’s absolutely gorgeous.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Barone Montalto Grillo Sicilia DOC

Barone Montalto is a lovely Sicilian winery, and this is their 100% Grillo. The up-front citrus is impossible to ignore, but that soon dies down in favour of big, bold tropical sweetness. Flecks of green apple come and go too. Relaxed, honeyed and with nice weight.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.25 (usually £8)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Other Great Discounts Worth Checking Out:

RED WINE:

The Wanderer Malbec – Was £12.50 Now £10
Barossa Ink Shiraz– Was £11 Now £9
Terre di Faiano Organic Nero di Troia – Was £9.50 Now £8

WHITE WINE:

Yealands Sauvignon Blanc– Was £10 .50 Now £8
Villa Maria Cellar Sauvignon Blanc– Was £13 Now £11
DV Catena Chardonnay– Was £13 Now £11

ROSÉ WINE:

Miraval Côtes de Provence Rosé– Was £19 Now £17
Madame F Rosé– Was £9.50 Now £8

The Best Scotch and Pizza Pairings

In the weird and wonderful world of food and drink pairings, rules exist about which pairings are good and which are bad. In the days of yore, they may have been as simple as red wine with red meat, white or sparkling wines if paired with seafood or white meat, or something as simple and delicious as pizza and beer.

However, as globalisation occurs at an ever-increasing rate, we have increasing access to food and drink across the globe. On top of this, with increases in technology, producers are bringing more and more unique products to the metaphoric dinner table every single day. As a result, these rules become dated and have been removed in place of more general flavour terms. Rather than strictly looking at wine, or even just the colour of it, we look at 7 aspects of flavour:

Sweetness, which pairs well with sweetness in turn

Umami, which contrasts beautifully with fruity flavours

Acidity, which, is similar to sweetness, matches best with more acidity

Salt, which likes light, fresh, and bitter flavours

Bitterness, which can be tempered by sweetness

Chilli, which enjoys a lower alcohol pairing

Fattiness, which can be cut through with bright acidity

So if not just wine, what else can I pair my food with? The answer is anything really, but one that stuck out to me was how well Single Malt Scotch Whisky goes with a well-made pizza.

This pairing was made aware to me out of necessity, as a friend and I were enjoying a couple of drams at Edinburgh institution, The Black Cat, and we started to feel peckish. As the pub does not have a full-sized kitchen, the staff were kind enough to allow us to grab some pizza from Dough, the stone-bake pizzeria just next door, and the rest was history.

Let us delve into some incredible Scotch Whisky and pizza (Italians and purists look away) pairings, and what makes them so special.

HAWAIIAN PIZZA & Glen Moray Chardonnay Cask Finish

It's a controversial one right off the bat, but hear me out. While the marriage of pineapple, ham, and cheese may be blasphemous to some, the mixture of acid from the tomato sauce and pineapple chunks, and fattiness from the ham call for a whisky with sweetness and acidity.

This bottling from Glen Moray provides exactly that! Upon the first sniff, you are met with a welcoming aroma of boiled lemon sweets before moving into a middle note of vanilla ice cream, and fresh pineapple with a lingering bread-and-butter note to finish, offering all the implied sweetness needed to stand up to the pineapple and tomatoes of the pizza.

You are met with rich creamy vanilla wafer notes on the palate to bolster the sweetness before moving into a mid-palate of fermented bread, not dissimilar to sourdough - or a well-made pizza base! As the flavours dissipate you are met with the dry fleeting finish of bright granny smith apples, and white peach cobbler.

The notes of the Chardonnay cask finish bring the desired (implied) sweetness and acidity you would get from a grape such as Chardonnay while still being dry and very sippable while you enjoy your pizza!

This is a love-it-or-hate-it pairing, but if Hawaiian Pizza is up your alley, for only £29.90 a bottle of this delicious single malt, it is worth a try!

GLEN MORAY CHARDONNAY CASK
Size: 700ml
Find here: £29.90

DIAVOLA PIZZA & CAOL ILA DISTILLERS EDITION

This pairing is one of my favourites, and is right in your wheelhouse if you rather your flavours punch you in the face over kissing your palate. Diavola pizza translates to devil pizza and Caol Ila is a classic Islay single malt bringing peat to the party, indicating where this pairing is headed.

Diavola generally consists of your usual tomato sauce and cheese base, topped with spicy salami and chilli peppers. The rich fattiness of the salami, along with the spice from it and the chillis are tempered by the chewy pizza dough and the sweetness of the tomato base and cheese, resulting in a spicy pizza that tickles your tongue but still is not a challenge to eat.

Caol Ila Distillers Edition is a peated single-malt double matured in Moscatel seasoned American Oak casks. The distillery character of sea salt, peat smoke, and damp ash brings to the nose a vivid image of a nostalgic beach barbecue, amplifying the spicy oiliness of the pizza. The cask finish contributes a scent of dried apricots and aloe vera vegetality allowing a reprieve from the potent spice and smoke of the pairing.

On the palate, you are met with a rich wave of sweet wood smoke, akin to that used to smoke a brisket, again, tempering the punchy flavours brought to the table by the pizza and the malt. We then move into a mid-palate spice mix of black peppercorn, nutmeg, and cinnamon which season the meat and chilis. The malt is then rounded out by a lovely lingering smoke finish, turning your delicious pizza and dram into a sensory experience that will blow your socks (and potentially your head) off, but you cannot stop returning for another bite and sip!

CAOL ILA DISTILLERS EDITION
Size: 700ml
Find here: £67.95

WHITE PIZZA & NC’NEAN HUNTRESS 2024 RELEASE

An understated player in the game, the pizza bianca is a delicious, lighter variation of your standard pizza. Omitting tomatoes entirely and simply topping the traditional pizza base with ricotta, mozzarella, and garlic, the creamy and lightly salted profile of this unique pizza pairs with a single malt just as unique - the Huntress Orchard Cobbler of Nc’nean distillery.

The Nc’nean distillery is notorious for pushing the boundaries of Scotch whisky, distilling two different kinds of spirits over the course of the year to be used in different age statement bottlings. This Huntress bottling has been distilled in the week post-recipe change, resulting in a hyper-fruit-forward spirit to the point where the bottling is named after one of the favourite desserts of the team!

On the first sniff, you are hit with aromas of rich black cherry conserve with back-end notes of puff pastry, vanilla custard, and an ever so slight fresh mintiness. When the whisky hits the tongue, we are met with a rich syrupy texture that coats the mouth, combined with a rich apricot jam note that bolsters the texture. In the mid-palate, the fruitiness prevails further but is accompanied by a warm spice of ginger nut biscuits, before moving into a long-lasting finish of custard sweetness.

This almost dessert-like dram jam-packed (pun intended) with flavours of cherry and apricot conserves brings out an incredible contrast to the soft cheeses and garlic in the pizza, reminiscent of the flavours of a mezze board.

NC’NEAN HUNTRESS 2024, ORCHARD COBBLER
Size: 700ml
Find here: £84.95

PIZZA CALABRESE & ARRAN SAUTERNES CASK

Consisting of tomato sauce, parmesan, tuna, olives, capers, garlic, onion, and hot Calabrian chilli peppers, calabrese pizza is one for those who love the salty savoury flavour profile that Italian cookery does so incredibly. 

To cut through the punchy flavours of this spicy, savoury pie, we recommend leaning towards the sweeter side of the Scotch malty whisky-verse, and where better to look than the sole distillery on the Isle of Arran, famous for their cask-finished malts? Specifically, the Sauternes cask-finished bottling brings to the pairing a fruit-forward honeyed profile that offers a sweet reprieve from the umami spice of the pizza.

This deceptively complex malt is the gift that keeps on giving, as I find a new tasting note for it every time we are reacquainted. On the nose, we are met with a pronounced honey scent before delving into a fruit bowl that is somehow tropical, orchard and stone all at the same time.

The palate has a mild saltiness and baking spice flavour running throughout, seasoning the layers of lemon zest, toffee apples, and honey. The finish is a short burst of crisp orange zest, honey, and unmistakable sauternes character.

The malt and pizza play together in this salty, spicy, sweet combination in a contrast that allows each component to shine brighter than if they were to be enjoyed in solidarity.

P.S. This bottling always sells out fast upon release!

ARRAN SAUTERNES CASK
Size: 700ml
Find here: £49.90

PIZZA PARMA & AUCHENTOSHAN AMERICAN OAk

A pairing that brings together the flavours of Northern Italy and the central belt of Scotland! Pizza Parma consists of Parma ham, paired with fresh rocket, and cherry tomatoes all added to the classic pizza base post-bake resulting in a fresh peppery pizza, with fatty saltiness coming from the Parma ham.

Lowlands distillery Auchentoshan’s American Oak aged bottling evokes memories of playing football (or your outdoor sport of choice) in the rain! On the nose you are hit in the face with the smell of dewy grass, accompanied by citrus notes of orange wedges and an ever so slight chocolatey toffee sweetness.

The palate follows suit, as upon first sip you are met with coconut water flavours married with mixed citrus peels and stone fruit, before developing into the distillery character of grassy freshness and malty, oaky spice on the mid-palate. On the lingering finish, the tongue tingles in a way that is reminiscent of grapefruit zests or Szechuan peppercorns, while also being tempered by a pronounced caramel sweetness.

The peppery notes of the fresh rocket boost the malt and oak spice of the malt, while the acidity from the cherry tomatoes and salt and fat from the ham cut through the recurring toffee notes.

Owing to its approachability in flavour and accessibility in price, a pairing I highly recommend as an introduction to the world of food and Scotch Whisky Pairings.

AUCHENTOSHAN AMERICAN OAK
Size: 700ml
Find here: £26.94

It is also worth noting that drinking the whisky neat is not the only way to approach this pairing! If you feel that a neat dram may be too potent to pair with a pizza, opting for a Highball, Old Fashioned, or Sour, is not only allowed but encouraged! Adding different ingredients would allow other flavours to enter the pairing and also make the world of whisky more accessible to those with less experience in drinking neat spirits, or even to those who simply do not like drinking neat spirits. We hope that these combinations of a dram and a slice have set you in the mood to go out and try a pairing of your own!

By Fowwaz Ansari

The Best Garnish For Any Cocktail

With so much effort put into the cocktail itself, it can be tempting to skip over the humble garnish – but don’t! It’s a massively undervalued step in creating a bar style cocktail at home.

Not only does it make a cocktail look so much prettier and more appetising (which can actually affect the perceived taste), but the aroma and flavour make a big impact themselves, especially with delicate and subtle cocktails.

You’ve done the hard work with finding the right ingredients; shaking, straining, whatever it may be – why leave out the final step when it’s so simple? If you’re not sure which garnish works best with your favourite cocktail, then we’ve got a list of favourites below that will elevate your cocktail to that next level.

What is the best garnish for a Martini?

With a Martini, there are two popular routes to go down. The first is olives. Famously used in a Dirty Martini with pickle juice, vodka, and vermouth, it’s also a classic choice as a garnish for a Classic Martini. Olives vary depending on the type, so you can get earthy Kalamata olives, meaty, salty Castelvetranos olives and many more. Avoid stuffed olives! Generally though, they bring a savoury, briny flavour and balance the Martini’s bracing intensity well. If you’re a keen traditionalist, then only use one or three olives – never two! Similarly, if you opt for pickled onion instead then did you know that you’ve made yourself a Gibson Martini?

The other way to go is the twist, usually lemon. This will brighten the gin and enhance the vermouth. Running a twist of lemon around the rim and even glass stem delivers a surprisingly intense hit of citrus aromatics. After that, you can either discard it or drop it into the drink for more flavour. Not as popular but still a great, slightly sweeter option is the orange twist too – but it all depends on personal preference and the spirit you’re using.

What is the best garnish for a Negroni?

Orange peel or wedge is the iconic garnish for a Negroni. Prepare a nicely trimmed orange peel, twist (express) over the glass to release oils and then place it in the glass. It’s a perfect match for the gin botanicals and bitter citrus of Campari. With orange peel, the oilers can be heavy and strong so it’s best to avoid rubbing the rim as it might numb your mouth slightly, throwing the drink out of balance.

What is the best garnish for a Julep?

No surprises here, because by far the most famous Julep is the Mint Julep. Any tall drinks with crushed ice that uses spirit, liqueur wine or fortified wine is a julep, which is why a Mojito is kind of one, but let’s focus on the Mint Julep. Because fresh mint leaves are the only source of mint flavouring in this serve, most of them will be muddled and shaken in the mix. However, these will be crushed within the ice and although they’re hard at work infusing flavour, they won’t be aesthetically pleasing. Save some gorgeous fresh mint for the top, so you get an instant hit of that distinct, cooling, aromatic flavour. Remember, give the mint leaves a gentle tap and rub as you place them so the aromas are released.

What is the best garnish for a Manhattan?

Cocktail cherries used to be a little dodgy tasting to say the least, but for a long time now they’ve been delicious. A sweet Maraschino cherry is the most popular garnish for a Manhattan, but you can also get all kinds of boozy, bright, tart, and sweet brandied cherries that work a treat. It’s the traditional choice, and the syrupy cherry offers another layer of fruity depth.

What is the best garnish for a Flip/Eggnog?

Frothy, creamy, luxurious cocktails like Flips, Eggnog and even fluffy Sours benefit from a shaving of spice. Most commonly nutmeg and cinnamon, a sprinkle on top not only sits beautifully on the cocktail cloud, but also brings out aromatic components. For only the smallest sprinkle, you get bundles of subtle sweetness and warm depth, and it makes dairy smell more appetising. Cinnamon specifically, is one of the few ingredients that brings perceived sweetness without containing sugar!

What is the best garnish for a Daiquiri?

A Daiquiri isn’t always garnished but why not? For sweet, tropical, fruity cocktails like the Daiquiri, fresh fruit is the best garnish. Generally, it’s best to match your fruit with the primary flavour of your Daiquiri to enhance the flavour with freshness.

The original rum, lime juice and sugar need a lime twist to complement the juice in the serve and intensify the citric aroma. But then something like a Strawberry Daiquiri requires real strawberries in the cocktail, so save a couple for a gorgeous garnish. The Hemingway Daiquiri uses a grapefruit wedge, the Coconut Daiquiri often comes with a slice of pineapple, Spicy Daiquiris benefit from a Jalapeño slice, and you can guess what a Watermelon Daiquiri should have.

What is the best garnish for a Margarita?

To salt or not to salt, that is the question. We generally prefer not to in our recipes, but some people love it, and it’s a good example of garnishing the rim of your glass. Both salt and sugar are commonly used to coat the rim in different cocktails, providing a big boost in, well, sweetness and saltiness. The salt brightens the sweet and sour notes, but use it sparingly if you do to avoid unpleasant clumps and an unbalanced drink. It’s also great to add spices in, be that the mellow warmth of cinnamon, or the heat of Tajin (lime, chillis and salt) which is often added to Spicy Margaritas.

There’s a couple of ways to rim the glass. First, if you chill your glass and take it out the fridge, the condensation will be enough to stick to salt as you roll your glass in it. Or, the most common method, take the most popular garnishes (lemon and lime), and coat the rim in citric juice so the granules stick that way. If you’re making it for guests and you’re not sure on their preference, a half and half is always best!

What is the best garnish for an Aperol Spritz?

This is a no-brainer. A slice of orange is perfect for Aperol Spritz, building on the refreshing, zesty profile of Aperol which contains a blend of sweet and bitter citrus. If you’re really into the bitter side of this cocktail, then a slice of lemon in addition can add a nice bright burst, but we’d recommend a small sprig of mint to help ease out those complex herbal scents in Aperol.

What is the best garnish for an Espresso Martini?

This is a good example of a garnish that you don’t tend to eat but remains an essential. The trio of coffee beans poised delicately on the white lid of an Espresso Martini represent health, wealth and happiness, and this cocktail just wouldn’t look the same without them – what are cocktails without their legends, symbolism, and romance. You can eat them, but they can also upset your stomach and aren’t tasty to most people, but without them, it would definitely feel like something is missing.

That’s not where it ends though. Espresso powder can also boost the coffee flavour, and cocoa powder works brilliantly to create a slight mocha tinge.  Use the white surface as a blank canvas and use coffee beans and powder to create art.

What is the best garnish for a Gimlet?

The Gilmet began as gin and lime but has now expanded to include variations using vodka and all sorts of citrus and herbal riffs – and these are good examples of some lesser used garnishes that are worth experimenting with.

A classic Gimlet needs fresh lime, no doubt. It brings that fresh hit of lime flavour, and the oils from the lime peel tantalise the nose. But the Cucumber Gimlet is a refreshing, sweetly vegetal twist that demands a skewered cucumber slice. Rosemary is another green garnish that adds so much. Just the faintest whiff can be delightful, and it works brilliantly with the right herbaceous gin.

Grab your skewers and peelers and get experimenting with your favourite garnishes!

Depending on when you’re reading this, you might be in need of some special garnishes for Halloween – well here’s 8 easy to make but surprisingly effective spooktacular garnishes.

The Truth About Negroni Sbagliato

In the world of cocktails, the Negroni Sbagliato had a moment recently with the resurgence of the cocktail, thanks in part to a viral moment on TikTok. Known as a happy accident, what’s the true story behind this light and fizzy drink? Let's dive into the truth about the Sbagliato, find out more about the legend and the story, embrace imperfection, and explore how to create delightful variations at home.

A Star Moment on TikTok

In late 2022, thanks to a viral TikTok video featuring stars Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke from HBO’s ‘House of the Dragon’, the Negroni Sbagliato rocketed into the public eye for a while. The cocktail is a twist on a classic Negroni, as Emma beautifully described: ‘A Negroni. Sbagliato. With Prosecco in it!’

Of course, it sounded sexy the way Emma explained it, mispronouncing it with a G in an English accent. The (correct) Italian pronunciation should be “spal - yar - toe”. But this article’s all about embracing mistakes so let’s celebrate the drink, regardless of how you say it. 

The internet went crazy. New videos with the hashtag #NegroniSbagliato exploded as viewers became intrigued by the name and curious about the drink itself. And as TikTok brought Sbagliato back into the spotlight it showcased its delightful simplicity and refreshing taste. As the video escalated to tens of millions of views and demand surged, bars around the world stocked up on Prosecco.

What is a Negroni Sbagliato?

In essence, it’s a twist on the classic Negroni, the more famous (and more potent) equal-parts cocktail that combines gin, Campari and sweet vermouth. The Negroni Sbagliato keeps equal parts of Campari and vermouth, ditching the gin for sparkling Italian wine (typically Prosecco) resulting in a lighter, more refreshing drink with a touch of effervescence. Depending on taste, it no longer even needs to be an equal parts cocktail. Extra prosecco can make it into a longer, highball drink. 

The Beauty of Mistakes: From Blunder to Beloved Beverage

The name of the drink translates from Italian to mean "Negroni Mistake" or “Mistaken Negroni” and its origin story reflects that. Legend has it that in 1972, at Milan's famed Bar Basso, bartender Mirko Stocchetto accidentally grabbed a bottle of sparkling wine instead of gin while making a Negroni for a customer. A fizzy Negroni was served and as a result, given a cute new name. Many cocktail historians cast doubt on this tale because of the lack of historical evidence to support the incident. They also point out the logistical improbability of a seasoned bartender confusing a gin bottle with prosecco (or Asti Spumante which may have been more likely at the time). Regardless of its exact origin, the Sbagliato reminds us to go with the flow and gracefully embrace our mistakes. It's a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Mirko that led to decades of unexpected delights. In a world obsessed with perfection, the Sbagliato reminds us that sometimes, happy accidents can result in something truly special. And that even 50+ years on, an old-fashioned drink can have a resurgence in a new world. The popularity of the classic Negroni is still on a growth trajectory even if all the fuss has now seemingly died down again about the Sbagliato. 

Maurizio Stocchetto, on how his father’s mistake made history

Image credit: Lea Anouchinsky

While the mistaken identity story may or may not be entirely verifiable, Mirko Stocchetto is credited with creating the Negroni Sbagliato whether it was by accident or design. Bar Basso in Milan is considered the spiritual home of the drink, and it’s still served there today in their signature oversized glasses. If you’ve a cheeky origin story, bigger is surely better?

Because the inventor died in 2016 the truth of the story cannot be verified but looking into the legend a little deeper, an interview with Mirko’s son Maurizio (himself a bartender at Bar Basso for more than 40 years and now owner) revealed a little more of the story about his father’s ‘mistake’ and the large glasses he designed for it to be served in. 

‘How often in life do we make mistakes and cast them aside without a second thought? There’s a beautiful lesson here. Mirko’s drink didn’t go down the sink, he decided to go with it, call himself out, rename the drink a Mistaken Negroni and, as my own Dad used to teach me, “turn a fault into a feature.”’

Founded in 1930, Bar Basso Milan was named after its previous owner before the Stocchetto family came to town. Maurizio’s father, a bartender from Venice, took over from Basso in 1967. Aiming for a high-end cocktail bar, he arrived during a social shift. Women were gaining independence and bars were becoming more popular which inspired him to create several lighter cocktails, like the Negroni Sbagliato, using sparkling wine instead of only strong spirits. The Sbagliato's birth thus mirrored the changing times.

So, despite "sbagliato" meaning mistake, it seems it may have been intentional. Maurizio tells how his father Mirko claimed the accident happened when he grabbed Prosecco instead of gin. He also says his father was a confident bartender so it’s more likely that on realising this ‘mistake’, he went ahead and poured the Prosecco into the glass anyway, happy with the outcome he kept the drink and instantly gave it a new name. “So”, he tells of the happy accident, “the name was catchy and the drink cheeky.” Mirko always felt if you live in Italy and you like sweet vermouth and Campari, the addition of sparkling wine would keep the flavour of the base, making for a lighter all-Italian drink. Mirko still loved the classic Negroni. This was just a riff on the original that stuck.

And that’s the beauty of never letting the truth get in the way of a good story. Even if the mistake element has been embellished over the decades, really the story celebrates the inherent charm of imperfection and the creator’s quick thinking. Great discoveries often spring from unexpected moments. The Sbagliato reminds us that sometimes the best things in life can’t be planned. They come from embracing the unexpected, a sentiment that still resonates deeply in our social media-driven world today.  

How do you Make a Negroni Sbagliato?

Here are four versions you can try (or invent your version and embrace imperfection!)

The Classic Sbagliato

Ingredients
30ml Campari
30ml Sweet Vermouth
Stir in glass
Top with chilled Prosecco
Garnish with orange peel

Method
Pour the Campari and vermouth into a glass over ice. Top up with Prosecco and stir gently enough to combine everything without killing off those bubbles. Orange slice for the perfect garnish!

The Aperol Sbagliato - for a lighter, sweeter twist

Ingredients
30ml Aperol
30ml Sweet Vermouth
Stir in glass
Top with chilled Prosecco
Garnish with orange peel

Method
Exactly the same as above, but using the ever so slightly sweeter Aperol for a subtle difference.

The Sbagliato Royale - for a touch of luxury

Ingredients
30ml Aperol
30ml Sweet Vermouth
Stir in glass
Top with chilled Champagne
Garnish with orange peel

Method
Exactly the same as above, but leave out the ice to avoid dilution!

The Sbagliato Spritz - for more bubbles

Ingredients
30ml Aperol
30ml Sweet Vermouth
Stir in glass
Top with chilled Prosecco and soda
Garnish with orange peel

Method
Follow the original but just add a splash of soda water as well for a more spritzy, highball experience.

Batching these variations is a great idea for entertaining.  Simply combine equal measures of Campari (or Aperol) and sweet vermouth in a pitcher beforehand.  When guests arrive, you can whip up individual Sbagliatos in seconds by topping off each serving with chilled bubbles and garnish.

The lighter profile of the Sbagliato makes it a delightful brunch companion, the Sbagliato's bubbly personality is versatile and perfect companion for many different events like brunch, BBQs, late afternoon Soirées, book clubs… pretty much any occasion. The Sbagliato's sophistication and refreshing nature make it ideal.

The Negroni Sbagliato's recent resurgence has been a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted cocktail.  Whether it was born from a happy accident or a stroke of brilliance, this delightful drink is a reminder to embrace the unexpected and celebrate the deliciousness of mistakes. 

Your own variation may even become your new “it” drink. Sometimes our most delicious creations come from the willingness to be more experimental and less afraid of a little Sbagliato. Cheers to happy accidents!

By Robbie Jerram

The 7 Trending Vodkas You Need To Try

Beginning in Russia and Eastern Europe, you can now find vodka from almost everywhere. The quality has never been higher, but is there anything more disappointing than trying a bottle on the back of big hype, pouring it over ice, and discovering unpleasant burn or zero character? We’ve gone through the most talked about vodkas out there right now to see what all the fuss is about…

Rachmainoff Vodka

There’s no doubting the reason this vodka is on everyone’s lips… literally. Named after a famous Russian composer, this German vodka hits all the right notes. The standout factor here is the mind-boggling value for money. You’ll find it on the shelves at Lidl for just over £10! For that price tag, it has a really clean feel, good smoothness and softness, and a warm dryness to the finish, earning it impressive awards at competitions. Don’t get us wrong, it isn’t an incredible premium vodka, but when it comes to value, it’s unstoppable.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £11.99

J.J Whitley Blue Raspberry Vodka

J.J Whitley have a number of intriguing flavoured vodkas, such as Toffee Popcorn, Strawberry Cheesecake and this, Blue Raspberry… which is getting people talking. The sweet raspberry is instantly noticeable with the fruity tang following in tow. Sure, it hasn’t got the delicate, nuanced elegance of some high end vodkas, but it’s a fantastic versatile and smooth vodka with fun, fruity flavour and no artificial sweetener.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: £15 (usually more!)

SKYY Vodka

This cobalt blue bottle stands out a mile off. SKYY have been undergoing something of a rebrand over the past few years, refreshing their vodka offering. Pacific minerals from San Francisco, where the brand is founded, enrich the liquid with freshness and unique character. The mouthfeel is very light and airy with gentle pepper and sweetness. It’s solid, neutral vodka that punches above its price point.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £18 (usually more!)

Wyborowa Vodka

Ever popular, this Polish gem was first produced in 1927, and still to this day, every single drop is made there. International awards have been plentiful for almost all of that time, rising to the top of the value categories. There’s a subtle pecan flavour and sweetness thanks to Polish rye, with a velvety mouthfeel. It’s cemented its place in vodka heritage, and is great value for money around that £20 mark.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £18.06

Au Vodka

If one vodka bottle has caught your eye on the shelves, then it’s probably this. Beyond the glimmering gold bottle, this might just be the most talked about vodka in the world. With the help of TikTok fame, ‘Gold Gang’ celebrity endorsements and trendy innovations like colour changing, this vodka is very popular, particularly with younger drinkers. But what about the liquid itself? Well, that contributes towards its staying power too, as it’s 5 times distilled, charcoal filtered and finishes in a high-pressure golf filter chamber. The branding might be love or hate, but the vodka has a pleasing neutrality.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £29.95

Grey Goose Vodka

Grey Goose is one of the most well-known and popular premium vodkas available everywhere, and for good reason. French inside and out, they use winter wheat local to the distillery, before distilling in Picardy and filtering in Cognac. Even Champagne region limestone-filtered water is used. Endless purification happens before the bottle and cork are macerated in the vodka. All of this effort pays off, with gentle floral aromas, creamy flavour, and no burn whatsoever.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.88 (usually more!)

Elit Vodka

Stepping up in price, this ultra-premium Latvian vodka has been making a splash, not least of all since dominating The Beverage Testing Institute’s awards every year. Their freeze filtration is patented, which is rare amongst vodka producers. The vodka is filtered at -18 degrees Celsius, delivering what might be the smoothest vodka in the world. Aniseed and spice bring some supple flavour amongst the creamy mouthfeel. If you want to try vodka that’s guaranteed to be super smooth and a world away from cheap throatburner, this is it.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £46.39

Did you know that white tea and vodka can be a really delicious mix? Perhaps try one of the above with it, or for other tea and alcohol pairings that will surprise you, go here!

The Best Brandy: From Strong to Candy

The diverse and exquisite world of fruit spirits is situated at the delicate intersection of sophistication and indulgence. The category can transport both eager newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs through stories of terroir, craftsmanship, and centuries of heritage. Navigating the world of brandy can be a journey to taste some dramatic distillates and discover uniquely nuanced notes.

While one article could never encompass the broad scope of brandies, below is a selection of fun, approachable, under-the-radar brandies, spanning the spectrum from robust and powerful to delicately sweet and aromatic. From historic distilleries to innovative newcomers, each selection offers a glimpse into this underappreciated and often misunderstood spirit category. If you prefer the warming intensity of a strong eau de vie or the smooth decadence of a sweetie delight, there's a perfect bottle for your desired experience. 

STRAWBAR ORIGIN

Starting strong. Eau de vie are fruit brandies that are usually unaged and can taste very hot or harsh when enjoyed neat. Strawbar Origin is a strawberry eau de vie made from 100% fermented strawberries. Traditionally fruit eau de vie is made through macerating a less sugary fruit in spirit for the flavour. But Strawbar uses only a special variety of wild strawberry from the Florina region in Northern Greece. This strawberry, known as Alpine strawberries - or more formally, Fragaria vesca - are a varietal known for their delicious, aromatic taste. They are small, flavourful, and luxurious. Unlike their larger grocery-store counterparts, alpine and woodland berries haven’t been bred for size. These are then hand harvested and handled delicately by analytical and organic chemists to create Strawbar’s signature pillars of flavour: strawberry, caramel, compote, & smoke. While somewhat intense on its own, it is magical in many cocktails that use clear spirits. 

Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £39.00

DAMPFWERK BARRELED GRAPE IMMATURE BRANDY (aka “Ivey”)

For US brandy enthusiasts, a special selection is this Minnesota-based distillery owned by a German family dedicated to quality products. Grape brandy produced in the United States is typically made from the distillation of fermented grape juice or wine similar to production of the Piscos of Chile and Peru. The Dampfwerk Barreled Grape Immature Brandy is distilled from a skin-on-fermentation using whole fruit imparting additional flavour and texture to the resulting product. It’s then distilled in a copper pot still with four plates. The makers describe the process as “expensive, arduous, and messy, but it provides a full-bodied fruit brandy that we are proud to sip eau de vie style, or barrel aged.” Strong in ABV but packs a punch in deliciousness as well. 

Size: 375ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: $38 (around £30)

G.E. MASSENEZ POIRE WILLIAMS 

G.E. Massenez Poire Williams is well-renowned as a masterpiece of French distillation. This pear brandy captures the essence of bright, ripe pears in every drop. Its unparalleled smoothness and delicate fruit expression make it a standout choice for anyone in search of a refined and unforgettable drinking experience. Traditionally enjoyed neat as a digestif, gifted to a pal in need of escape, or used to elevate cocktails and desserts, G.E. Massenez Poire Williams never fails to impress with its impeccable balance and lingering, peary finish. This spirit has the ability to transport the drinker to the orchards of Alsace with each sip of this extraordinary brandy. A perfect middle ground for this scale. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.99

PÉRE MAGLOIRE FINE VS CALVADOS

Pére Magloire Fine VS Calvados is crafted using traditional methods of apple brandy production. It begins with the fermentation of apple cider, which is then distilled to create a clear apple spirit. The spirit is made from single continuous distillation in copper stills to concentrate the apple aromas. The flavour is then blended with the fruitiest cuvées and aged in barrels made of century-old oak. This Calvados offers a taste of the rich apple-growing traditions of Normandy, showcasing the unique terroir and craftsmanship as the flagship of the extensive Pére Magloire collection of apple expressions. A beginner’s guide to smooth and fruity flavours, it’s a great brandy to get someone into brandy. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £33.24

BARDINET COFFEE

Finishing off sweet and easy. Winning Gold at the World Brandy Awards, Bardinet Coffee is a brandy-based coffee liqueur produced by Bardinet, a renowned French spirits company with a strong heritage dating back to 1857. Bardinet Coffee is a premium coffee liqueur and is lauded for quality and richness. After Arabica beans are roasted to specification, they are distilled to extract the essence of the coffee, resulting in a concentrated coffee distillate. This liqueur mixes the coffee distillate and the Bardinet brandy with a balance of the right amount of sweetness and complexity. Its velvety texture and good solid coffee flavour make it delicious over ice, added to any coffee beverage morning or night, and a sweetened delight in any coffee liqueur cocktail. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 28%
Find here: £13.02

By Zach Sapato

The UK’s Best Adults-Only Soft Play Centres

Most of us have memories of soft play centres from our childhood, whether it was a rainy weekend or a birthday party but save the young parents that might get involved themselves with their own kids, it’s a world we say goodbye to forever as adults. Or is it?

We all like passing the time in restaurants and pubs, but boozy soft play bars like these are bringing back the silliness to adult life. Not only are they nostalgic, with the retro games, ball pits, slides, nets and tunnels we remember, but you also get the grown-up bonus of drinks. Suddenly those climbing walls don’t look as straightforward!

Take a look below to find your nearest adults-only soft play centre – they each offer something different, but they all offer a turn back in time.

Howlers, Newcastle

Image credit: Howlers

Howler’s is Newcastle’s only ball pit bar, but as a £1m project, it’s much more than that. There’s also karaoke, stag and hen events, bottomless brunches, corporate events, and all kinds of parties. It promises the bizarre and bonkers, and whilst we would say it rolls back the years to your childhood, this will likely be very, very different.  And if you’re worried about sharing a ball pit with that many people (many of whom will be tipsy to say the least, let’s face it), then take comfort tin Howlers’ fancy cleaning machine that gobbles up 10,000 balls over the hour and spits them out clean. On top of that, the entire pit is emptied and cleaned ready for the weekend!

Location: 28-32 Collingwood St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE11JF
Entry Fee: The Howlers Bottomless Bonkers Ball (£12+) The ChachaBuchi Bottomless Brunch (£29.99+)
Website: https://howlersnewcastle.com/

Wonderland: Adult Soft Play, London

Image credit: Wonderland: Adult Soft Play

If you’ve seen any adult soft play centres online, it’s most likely to be this TikTok hit. Situated in Palmers Green and open most weekends, it’s a three-storey mystically themed retro style soft play centre with slides, ball pits, swings, tunnels, DJs, boozy slushies as well as a fully-fledged arcade and bar games area. ‘Never Grow Up’ is the motto and the aim of the game here!

Location: 220 Green Lanes, London N13 5UD
Entry Fee: £22
Website: https://www.kbo2.co.uk/adult-events/27

Big Fun, Hull

Image credit: Big Fun, Hull

By day, Big Fun is full of children playing, but on Friday Nights, it’s Adult Night! The Bar is open all evening serving legendary drinks like the Double Vodka Slush, including BOGOF Happy Hour 8pm-9pm. There’s even private rooms for £60 if you don’t fancy waiting for the slide. It’s not a small recreation of a play centre, because it literally is one, so you get the entire colourful labyrinth to crawl, slide and jump through – and all for under a tenner.

Location: 335 National Ave, Hull HU5 4JB
Entry Fee: £8.95
Website: https://www.big-fun-hull.co.uk/adult-nights/

Ocean Adventurers, Bristol

Image credit: Ocean Adventurers

South of Bristol and east of Weston-super-Mare lies Ocean Adventurers Soft Play. This is another genuine children’s soft play that hosts adult only nights called ‘Adventurers After Dark’. Three stories of laser tag, karaoke, interactive games, and full soft-play arena await. And if you’re wondering whether everything will be too small for you, think again, because they’ve installed a giant games area where everything is oversized. There is so much to do here for £10 if you’re fancying something different from a bar or nightclub.

Location: Ocean Adventurers, Unit 11, Cheddar Business Park, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3EB
Entry Fee: £9.95
Website: https://bookings.oceanadventurers.com/book/adventurers-after-dark---adult-only-nights/327

Pirates Play, Nottingham

Image credit: Pirates Play

This Nottingham play centre is a slightly different offering. You can pre-book a private adult party with them, where their party hosts lead your group through games across the three stories of soft play. Think tag rugby and shot relay which is perfect for any competitive groups out there. Alternatively, you can be left alone to do as you wish – it’s up to you. You’ll get to blast your own playlists through the speakers too! And get this, you can even bring your own booze, snacks, and nibbles – how good is that?

Location: 41 Rowley Dr, Nottingham NG5 1GD
Entry Fee: £295 for up to 25 people / £10pp thereafter (Laser Tag added for £35)
Website: https://bookings.oceanadventurers.com/book/adventurers-after-dark---adult-only-nights/327

Ballie Ballerson, Edinburgh, London, and Cardiff

Image credit: Ballie Ballerson

With bars in England, Scotland and Wales, you’re never too far away from a chaotic ball pit with Ballie Ballerson. Their giant glowing ball pits are famous with an insane number of balls. Whilst they don’t have the slides and tunnels too, they are very much proper bars in their own right. Cocktails are served by champion bartenders, bottomless brunches, hen dos, and all kinds of entertainment are a constant. If you’re after a classic chaotic bright ‘n’ busy bar experience with a touch of fun and games, this is for you.

Locations:
London - 97-113 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3BS
Edinburgh - 14 Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN
Cardiff - Unit 6-7 Brewery Quarter, Cardiff CF10 1FG
Entry Fee: £4.50-£12.50 depending on date and location (more for brunch, karaoke etc.)
Website: https://ballieballerson.com/

If you’re looking for more drinks related group events, then a distillery tour is always worth looking into. Here are a few to get you started!