Mother’s Day Gift Guide For Drinks Lovers

Words by Helena Nicklin

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I wanted to share some of the cheeky treats that have caught my eye over the past month. Be it subscriptions, bottles, chocolates or glassware, there is a little something here to suit everyone, whether you are a mum or not!

Stir-Up Cocktail Subscription Membership

How about getting her a cocktail subscription box for 1, 3 or 6 months? Each smart Stir-Up box contains the ingredients needed to make 4 cocktails and is delivered directly to the recipient’s door with easy to follow instructions included. Learn how to mix a new classic cocktail each month and discover fun facts about the drink, the best place to drink them, and enjoy their curated playlist to put you in the mood for stirring and shaking. There’s also a follow along ‘how to’ video for each month’s featured cocktail. 

Find here: £29.95 a month

Women & Wine prints

I discovered Judith Clara on Instagram recently and fell in love with her Women & Wine prints, each drawn by hand in a single stroke. Choose from red or white wine, landscape or portrait formats and three different sizes. I bought three to make a trilogy! They are just beautiful and it’s a great way to support an up and coming artist.

Find here: From 15 EUR

Gosnell’s BEE KIND TO YOURSELF bundle

Created by the team behind the premier modern mead brand Gosnells, this little bundle of luxury includes two mead-scented bath bombs, a beeswax candle, a can of chilled mead and a mini pot of orange blossom honey. Hops have long been used in beer (and mead) production, but they have relaxing properties of their own and Hibiscus Flowers can be used in skin treatments to give a stunning, natural youth-boost! Choose your bundle in either Hopped green or Hibiscus pink and get a handwritten note with it. 

Find here: £16 (+p&p) 

Set of 2 Geometric Glasses

Perfect for making any drink feel like a treat, even a simple glass of water! I love this pair of gold, geometric glasses from Root7. Thick, 100% hand-blown glass gives them a sturdy feel while the lip has been crafted to provide a satisfying drinking experience. Available with a gold edge or a matte black edge.

Find here: £20.75

Laylo - Beautiful Boxed Wine

Boxed wine can be beautiful both inside and out and a box is infinitely more sustainable than heavy glass bottles. This delicious, easy-drinking Rioja punches well above its price tag and looks beautiful on your countertop at the same time. The first in the range, the Laylo team source the wines directly from smaller producers they know and love and are dedicated to more environmentally packaging. The wine also stays fresh for up to six weeks  - not that you will have much left by then! 

Find here. £34.99

Wild Life Botanicals - Ultra-low alcohol ‘Bubbles with Benefits’

The perfect fizz when you want a drink but don’t want the hangover. These two, immensely refreshing 0.5% alcohol wines have super fine, elegant bubbles and complex aromas and flavours from a plethora of benefit-giving herbs and extractions, from Ashwagandha to Zinc. There is a sweetness there but not too much and they really do feel like a treat. They comes in white (nude) and blush (rosé) and are beautifully packaged. Perfect for gifts and super with Sunday lunch. 

Find here: £15 each

Amedei Chuao Chocolate X Gusbourne Sparkling Rosé

Cartografie are the new, sophisticated chocolatiers in town who think of terroir for chocolate just like winemakers do for wine. In this limited edition Mother’s Day pack, Kae and Sven have taken the silkiest Venezuelan chocolate from Amedei, turned it into a water ganache with a slight sprinkle of sea salt and perfumed it with an English blackcurrant eau de vie from Capreolus. It’s fruity and tangy with a thin shell. They say “think about a kirsch chocolate bonbon but with flavours of an English country garden.” Yum! Match these 12 gorgeous, hand-made chocolates with a bottle of one of England’s finest sparkling rosé wines from Gusbourne in Kent. Gift wrapping available too. 

Find here: £35 for the Chocolates or £80 with the Gusbourne too

100 Prosecco Recipes Book + Bottega Prosecco Gold Bottle

From aperitifs to desserts, this book is a collection of recipes accompanied by many stories and curiosities. More than that though is a journey through the Prosecco hills, just north of Venice. Put together by Sandro Bottega of the well-loved Prosecco brand Bottega. Proud of the land and the riches it offers, Sandro wanted to pay homage to the straightforward, hard-working people who live there and who have created and still preserve its cuisine and its culture. With its stunning, mirrored gold cover, it makes the perfect gift along with the iconic golden bottle itself. 

Find the Bottega Gold Prosecco gift pack with two glasses here: £34.99
Find the recipe book here 

Kylie Minogue Wild Rosé Hamper

A perfectly pitched, limited edition hamper where every touch was personally selected by Kylie herself. Inside the large wicker hamper with its hand embroidered lining and detail, you’ll find a  bottle of Kylie Minogue Côtes de Provence Rosé, her Signature Rosé, a Kylie corkscrew, 2 bespoke wine glasses, the Fine Cheese Co English farmhouse cheddar, chutneys for fig fruit, rosemary & sea salt dark chocolate, Yorkshire chardonnay crisps, Yorkshire sweet and salty popcorn, rosemary olive oil, orange candy and mandarin orange crisps. Bring it on!

Find here: £149

12 Whiskies you NEED to Explore from Scotland's Distiller of the Year 2021!

As Scotch whisky lovers and great friends of Whyte and Mackay and their superstar master blender Richard Paterson, we were over the moon to hear that they had been chosen as Distiller of the Year 2021 in the Icons of Whisky Awards this month.

Who are Whyte and Mackay?

Whyte and Mackay are distillers who saw their launch in Glasgow in 1844 when James Whyte and Charles Mackay decided to provide the hard working residents of Glasgow with an alternative to Cognac. Priding themselves in being a strong community of people that work hard together, it is this entrepreneurial spirit that sits at the heart of all the excellent whiskies they produce today.

Which whiskies are in the Whyte and Mackay Portfolio?

Whyte and Mackay own four internationally recognised single malt Scotch whiskies; Jura, Fettercairn, The Dalmore and Tamnavulin. We were lucky enough to visit three out of the four of these in our TV series Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky and so we have popped together a list of twelve of our favourite drams, although we have to tell you, it was mighty hard to choose!

Must-Try Jura Whiskies

Jura 10 Year Old

The Jura 10 year old is now part of Jura’s core range and it’s a very popular whisky thanks to its subtle, fragrant smokiness combined with smooth, sweet fruit notes and hints of cocoa and vanilla. It’s matured in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels for 10 years and finished in rich, oloroso sherry casks from Spain.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £28.95 // US $39.99

Jura 18 Year Old

Wine meets whisky with the Jura 18. This rich and fruity whisky was aged for 18 years in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in red wine casks; Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux barrels, no less! With a gentle smokiness on the nose, red cherry and berry fruit come through on the palate with a touch of orange peel citrus, dried fruit and warm cooking spice on the finish. Indulgent and delicious. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £62.94 // US $119.99

Jura 21 Year old Tide

Released as part of the special ‘Aged Vintage’ series, Tide is a 21 year old single malt that has been double matured; first, in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels and then in hand-selected, virgin American white oak casks. Spicy and complex, Tide is all about gingerbread, pepper and warm spice, all brought into balance with notes of banana, biscuits and white chocolate. A higher ABV gives a greater whack of flavour on the palate and the finish.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 46.7%
Find here: £126.95

Jura Red Wine Cask Finish

This expression has been matured in ex-bourbon casks before being finished for 18 to 24 months in red wine barriques. It is incredibly well-balanced and rich with berry flavours and dried raisins. There are also creamy caramel and vanilla flavours and a touch of cinnamon spice. These sound like bold flavours, yet the whisky remains delicate. A great expression to try for those wanting to experiment a little with new whiskies. For the moment, this can be found in the UK in Sainsbury’s in a one litre bottle and is brilliant value.

ABV: 40%
Size: 1000ml
Find here: Currently on offer at £34 (normally £40)

Must-Try The Dalmore Whiskies

The Dalmore 12 Year Old Sherry Cask Select

The Dalmore is well known for having a close relationship with Spain as the whisky is often matured in ex-sherry casks. This expression celebrates this relationship and as Richard Paterson says “between the union of the Scottish highlands with the warmth of the Andalusian sun”. Firstly the whisky is matured for ten years in ex-bourbon casks and then two years in ex-sherry casks from bodegas. These casks are made from both American and European oak and are then seasoned with a unique blend of aged Oloroso and sweet Pedro Ximénez casks. The result is fabulous; unctuous and complex with distinct flavours of sundried fruits and fresh Scottish orchard fruits. Plenty of fudge and caramel back up the fruit and with a spicy finish, this is a brilliantly concocted 12 year old dram. 

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find here: UK £69

The Dalmore 18 Year Old

This whisky is a perfect example of The Dalmore’s trademark, bold house style, with bombastic notes of chocolate orange, vanilla and fruitcake thanks to its maturation time in both bourbon and aged, Matusalem oloroso sherry casks.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £119.99 // US $199.99

The Dalmore King Alexander III

This ultra premium whisky is named in homage to the king who was saved from a stag by former owners of The Dalmore. It’s a very special whisky blend created by Master Distiller Richard Paterson using a selection of differently aged malts, which between them have been matured in six types of wood including French wine casks, madeira drums, sherry butts, marsala barrels, port pipes and bourbon barrels from Kentucky. As you would expect, this is an incredibly complex, textured whisky packed full of dried fruit and nut flavours, cocoa powder, vanilla pod and spicy oak, all with undertones of red fruit from the wine casks. Let it sit in your glass and experience different flavours in every sip. Delicious!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £159.80 // US $279.99

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve

Deemed the ideal accompaniment to the finest cigars but equally delicious without, this is a single malt matured in American, white oak ex-bourbon casks, Matusalem oloroso sherry casks and wine barriques that previously held Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a rich, figgy and creamy malt that’s round and sweet with a hint of mint for freshness from the Cabernet and subtle notes of exotic spice from the sherry cask. The finish is exceptionally long. The current available release is the second iteration of the famed Cigar Malt that was brought back by popular demand!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £76.85 // US $169.99

Must-Try Fettercairn Whiskies

Fettercairn 12 Year Old

The youngest in the newly revitalised core range from Fettercairn, the 12 Year Old whisky aims to show off the tropical fruit notes and floral character that the distillery is famous for. It was matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks for 12 years which gives it a gentle, ginger spice note and some savoury weight and toffee flavours on the finish. It’s a great place to start your exploration of Fettercairn whisky.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £37.94

Fettercairn 16 year old

This is a very interesting expression from Fettercairn released at the beginning of summer 2020. Not many whiskies are distilled using chocolate malt (heavily kilned barley, more commonly seen in craft brewing)! The Fettercarin is initially matured in first-fill American oak bourbon casks, before being put in sherry and Port casks, and is bottled at 16 years of age. There's plenty going on here, and it's all impressive stuff. One wonders why more brands aren’t using chocolate malt. This is a very different whisky from Signet although the chocolate malt lends some familiarity. If you like Signet, then you will love this.

ABV: 46.4%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £73.26

Fettercairn 22 Year Old

This a is fantastic, mid-age statement whisky for Fettercairn, showcasing the distillery’s tropical fruit characteristics. Matured for 22 years in ex-bourbon casks, you can expect heaps of spiced orange peel, mango and dark cherry jam up front, with dried fruit flavours and savoury kick of liquorice and coffee bean on the finish. Smooth and lingering. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 47%
Find here: £169.95

Fettercairn 28 Year Old

A stunning, splash-out whisky with serious age on it from Fettercairn’s ‘waterfall’ cooling ring still and matured in ex-bourbon casks. This whisky is a complex blend of the distillery’s characteristic bright tropical fruit character with more savoury notes of toffee, espresso, fruit and nut chocolate. On the finish, a slick of liquorice and ginger spices things up a bit. Exceptional whisky!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 47%
Find here: £500

Perfect Drinks for Date Night

Words by Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin

The biggest date night of the year is upon us, so be it still wine, bubbles, vodka or gin that you like to drink the most, here is Helena and Aidy’s selection of top picks to make your night the best yet, whether it’s a romantic date for two or a pamper date for one...

Cupid’s Perfect Sparkle

Taittinger Prestige Rosé Champagne

A deeply coloured, exceptionally vibrant rosé champagne produced using top class Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims and Les Riceys and a fair whack of Chardonnay that rounds everything out beautifully. Youthful in appeal, it’s a wine packed with bright red berry fruit with an elegant, smooth body and creamy mousse. This is no wallflower champagne. It demands attention! HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: UK £38

Rathfinny Sparkling Rosé 2017

Rathfinny Estate is located on a prime, south-facing slope in East Sussex, where world class sparkling wines are produced largely from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Their sparkling rosé 2017 is a blend of 63% Pinot Noir, 19% Chardonnay, 18% Pinot Meunier. It has an elegant, cherry blossom pink hue with notes of crunchy red berries and a subtle, spicy finish. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: UK £36 (includes a complimentary gift box for Valentine’s Day.)

Hattingley Valley Sparkling Rosé 2017

Internationally renowned for its delicious English sparkling wines, Hattingley Valley has created its first-ever limited edition label just in time for Valentine’s day. A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir Précoce this award-winning 2017 sparkling rosé has delicious notes of strawberry coulis, a creamy texture and perfectly balanced acidity. Pair this with clam chowder - trust us, you won’t regret it. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £41

White & Rosé Wonders

Gran Moraine Chardonnay 2017

There’s nothing quite like a good Chardonnay to sip as you wind down in the evening and right now this beauty from Oregon is piquing our intrigue. Deriving from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, this rich, fruity and balanced Chard is bursting with flavour and the most important thing for me in a wine like this – texture. Some people love oak, others don’t, but this has the perfect balance, making it incredibly well rounded and sumptuous. Rich, but not overpowering you can expect to taste apricot, buttery lemon, kiwis and clementines. For those who love Chardonnay, this is for you. For those who don’t, I’d dare say it will convert you. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: £43

Kylie Minogue, Rosé 2019

Super easy-drinking, fruity and soft, Kylie’s first wine project is still an absolute smash hit. Made from Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon from the South of France, Kylie has manage to create a beautifully packed, pretty, pink drop that knocks it out of the park for value.

Size 75cl

ABV: 12.5%

Find here: £9

Marques de Murrieta Primer Rose 2017 

Imagine the most beautiful rosé you’ve had from Provence, something along the lines of Domaine Ott? Well, say hello to the Spanish equivalent. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than this. Strawberries, cream and raspberries erupt from the glass and with it so much texture. You’ll often hear me harp on about that word – but for whites and rosés, texture is key for me! This is the wine to be popping the cork on when the sun shines outside (and when I want it to shine inside, too). AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £29.35

Changyu Moser XV Blanc de Noir 2016

Allow us to introduce you to the first white Cabernet Sauvignon from China – and my god is it beautiful. Firstly, the vines are around 15 years old – which is pretty unheard of when it comes to rosé. The vines themselves are located in the Ningxia province with Lenz M. Moser continuing to establish his name as a pioneering force of nature for Chinese wines. Estate bottled for that final seal of quality, you can expect grapefruit peel, exotic fruits and an array of crushed raspberries and apple. Zippy and refreshing with texture – and as you know, texture is everything. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £18.99

Romantic Red Wines

Saint Amour, Domaine Des Côtes de la Roche, Beaujolais, 2018

No date night is complete without a bottle of Saint-Amour. This vibrant, perfumed and fruity wine made with the Gamay grape hails from one of the lesser known and smallest of the ten Beaujolais ‘Crus’. It’s refreshing and lively with notes of concentrated blackcurrant and dark cherry with a whiff of wild strawberry and a slick of slate. Very easy, very pretty wine. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £11.50

Maruxa Mencia, Virgen del Galir, 2019,

Mencia is a grape that we will see exploding onto the wine scene soon as more and more people look towards lighter, crunchier, more refreshing red wines styles. Hailing most famously from Northwestern Spain, Mencia has similar strawberry and cherry-like qualities and high acidity, like Pinot Noir and Gamay, but add to the mix a touch of licorice and plum spice and a cool minerality with this one, which is made in tiny quantities by the same people responsible for the fabulous Contino Rioja. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 14%
Find here: UK £12.99 per bottle (£10.99 mix six).

Bolney Estate Pinot Noir 2019

Pinot Noir has garnered a reputation as the heartbreak grape as it needs contact care and attention to flourish, but when it does, it certainly gives the love back. This Pinot from Bolney Estate is light, elegant and silky, with understated notes of cherry and red plum with just the slightest hint of spice. Perfect if you’re after wine with a lighter touch and it goes perfectly with cold cuts, smoked salmon and hard, mature cheese. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: UK £19.99

The McGuigan Reserve Shiraz

If a more easy-going, rich and juicy wine is what you’re after, then an Australian Shiraz will be your vinous comfort blanket. The Mcguigan Reserve Shiraz is our go-to, easy drinker thanks to its chocolatey texture and notes of blackcurrant, mint and damson conserve. Concentrated and spice, it’s a warm hug in a glass - one of the very few dry wine styles that can take chocolate and pairs perfectly with a snuggle on the sofa. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £7.

English Wine Gifting: Hampers, Tastings, Tours & More

Gusbourne X Cartografie Chocolate

The ultimate, elegant, English pairing featuring one of the most exciting wine producers in the UK and an emerging, boutique chocolatier, hand crafting beautiful, single origin, single bean chocolates. This duo features the stunning, 2016 rosé from Gusbourne in Appledore, Kent with its notes of crips apple, cherry and strawberry and a Cartografie box containing 4 hand-crafted, ganache filled chocolates. HN & AS

Find here: here

Rathfinny Estate: Hampers, Accommodation mid vines, Tasting packs.

Rathfinny are also offering Valentine’s day hampers packed full of fresh, local produce and a Valentine’s wine case with their Cradle Valley 2018 Pinot Gris/Pinot Blanc and their 2018 Seven Sisters Gin. Experience-wise, you can also get vouchers for overnight packages for couples to stay at their beautifully restored Flint Barns in the heart of the vines, tours of the estate and three-course lunches at their Michelin Plate Tasting Room restaurant. HN

See more here

Bolney Estate: Private Virtual Wine Tasting with Bespoke Bottle engraving

Bolney Estate are offering private, virtual tastings of their Cuvée Rosé, Eighteen Acre Rosé, Blanc de Blancs and Cuvée Pinot Noir, you can also request a bespoke package to include any of their wines or even a wine and food pairing tasting packages with cheese and chocolate selections. Bolney is also offering gift boxes containing sparkling wines or gins with chocolates. HN

See all their options here

Candles

Parks Candles

There’s just something about the way Parks create their candles that makes you feel so wholesome and comforted. Whether to create a romantic ambience during dinner or more of a relaxing one in the bath – they’ve got it all. Some of our personal favourites are Feu de Bois, Amber, Tobacco & Leather and of course Bourbon & Maple – but we’re sure you’ll fall in love with something that resonates with you too. AS

Find here: Prices start from £10

MoJo White Truffle & Cognac Candle

We’ve tested a lot of candles over the last few months and MoJo have been knocking out of the park for alluring aromas, long lasting length and fantastic value. We adore the White Truffle and Cognac candle which scents your room with a cosy, creamy, white chocolate scent with a hint of orange peel and spice. Original and gorgeous. We also love their Fig & Rose and Sumi & Paper Ink. Find them while you can! HN

Find here: £19

Get in the Spirit

Rosé Sainte Marie Pink Gin, Salcombe Distilling

Salcombe Gin’s beautiful, double award-winning pink gin is inspired by the sensory wonders of the South of France. Named after the lighthouse in Marseille’s Old Port where the fruit used to come in, it has a delicate fragrance of citrus fruit, white peach and melon. Pour over ice, top up with tonic and garnish with a slice of pink grapefruit, peach or even strawberry and breath in the atoms of a warm evening in Provence, even if it’s still snowing outside. Available in 70cl, 5cl and a range of gifts. HN

Size: 70cl
ABV: 41.4%
Find here: UK £40

Mirabeau Provence Rosé Gin

When it comes to rosé my top choice for quality and value is always Mirabeau, which made me pretty god damn excited when they announced they were making a gin. While the base botanicals consist of juniper, citrus, orris root, angelica root and coriander it’s the Provençal twist containing a variety of herbs such as bay, thyme and rosemary alongside the neutral grape spirit and base distillate of Mirabeau Classic Rosé that really makes this gin stand out from the crowd. The result is a fruity and textured gin with lemon, coriander and citrus bursting with floral notes, rose petals and lavender. The story ends on a final note as those herbs add an extra kick of character to the blend. AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £45

Belvedere Single Estate - Smogóry Forest

Our next treat takes us to a tiny village in the far west stretches of Poland where Belvedere’s Smogóry Forest estate calls home. Mild winters and long summers result in bakers-grade Diamond Dańkowskie rye – the perfect base product for this award-winning vodka. Purposely left unfiltered to allow the flavour to continue to elevate over time, this is a vodka for those who like true craft. The single-estate gem oozes with salted caramel, cereal and a touch of honey evolve to reveal toasted bread and a hint of white pepper. AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £39.90 // US $49.99

Gran Patron Platinum

I love a good tequila, it seems to be one of the spirits I’ve really found an appreciation for over the last few years. If I was to name one house that consistently delivers quality across its whole portfolio, my mind takes me straight to Patrón. It seems there’s a little something for everyone and while I’ll happily get my hands on a Reposado for my margarita needs (quick tip, avoid the salt rim, it ruins the drink), I love nothing more than to sip on something of premium quality. That brings me to Gran Patrón Platinum, arguably the world’s first ultra-premium tequila. With each bottle taking around 30 people to create, quality is of the utmost level. Agave is individually sourced for its rich sugar content before being harvested, triple distilled and left for 30 days in oak tanks to create pure elegance. The result is a smooth and seductive nectar of agave, orange, vanilla, lime and white peppercorns. Pure bliss if you ask me and don’t even get me started on a Mexican Martini (google it, you won’t be disappointed). AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £193.95  // US $199.99

Highclere Castle Gin

The perfect gift for Valentine’s Day, this stunning gin is created using botanicals from Highclere Estate, also known for its appearance in the internationally renowned Downton Abbey series. The multi-award winning gin is distilled at England’s oldest distillery, Langley, in one of the oldest working copper gin stills dating back to the 1800’s. The result is an incredibly smooth gin, perfect for sipping over ice but also equally good in cocktail. Check out their ‘British 75’ cocktail, simple and yet stunning, it is a perfect celebration cocktail that will add the wow to your Valentine’s Day.

Size: 75cl
ABV: 43.5%
Find here: UK £42.30 // $39.99 

Enjoyed this? Then, make sure you check out Cheap Champagne that Tastes Great and Top Pink Proseccos £10 and Under

A Trilogy of Fine, Scotch Whisky Distilleries to Discover

This month, we celebrate the limited season launch of The Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky on YouTube, brought to you in partnership with Whyte & Mackay. During the course of this series, we travelled all over Scotland, visiting friends at various distilleries from Jura and Islay to Inverness and Edinburgh. Three of these distilleries were the jewels in Whyte & Mackay’s portfolio, each offering fabulously delicious, unique styles of whisky that are sought-after all the world over. They are Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Fettercairn Single Malt Scotch Whisky and, of course, The Dalmore. Here’s an introduction to each of these need-to-know houses with a selection of whiskies hand-picked by us that you simply must try.

Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Unique Island of Jura

Sixty miles away from the mainland of Scotland’s western coast, lies a remote island of rugged landscapes and wild waters. Just thirty miles long and seven miles wide, with the tempestuous Atlantic on one side and calmer bays full of seals and birds of prey on the other, it’s a harsh, cool climate, but one that breeds exceptional warmth within its own human community of approximately 212 people.

The Most Un-gettatable Place

The island of Jura has just one road, one pub and one whisky distillery. With the population of wild deer outnumbering humans twenty to one, it is also a particularly remote place; one that was once described by writer George Orwell as ‘the most un-gettatable place on earth’ - and where he chose to write his final book, 1984. As far as distillation goes, Jura is perhaps quite an unusual place to create whisky, but the locals believe the climate is ideal - and the distillery itself is at the very heart of this small island community. Founded originally in 1810, the distillery fell into ruin at the end of the 19th century but was entirely rebuilt and reopened in 1963 in order to boost the local economy and rebuild the community.

The Jura Whisky Style

The Jura style is smooth, bright and lively. Start with their signature series, which boasts nine super smooth malts finished in casks that are hand-selected from Europe and America. Trade up after that to their Rare and Limited series of aged whiskies and rare older vintages. There’s also an exciting selection of Travel Retail Exclusives, where the whiskies are finished with Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. 

Watch us at Jura here

Three Jura Whiskies to Try

Jura 10 Year Old

The Jura 10 year old is now part of Jura’s core range and it’s a very popular whisky thanks to its subtle, fragrant smokiness combined with smooth, sweet fruit notes and hints of cocoa and vanilla. It’s matured in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels for 10 years and finished in rich, oloroso sherry casks from Spain.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £28.95 // US $39.99

Jura 18 Year Old

Wine meets whisky with the Jura 18. This rich and fruity whisky was aged for 18 years in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in red wine casks; Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux barrels, no less! With a gentle smokiness on the nose, red cherry and berry fruit come through on the palate with a touch of orange peel citrus, dried fruit and warm cooking spice on the finish. Indulgent and delicious. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £62.94 // US $119.99

Jura 21 Year old Tide

Released as part of the special ‘Aged Vintage’ series, Tide is a 21 year old single malt that has been double matured; first, in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels and then in hand-selected, virgin American white oak casks. Spicy and complex, Tide is all about gingerbread, pepper and warm spice, all brought into balance with notes of banana, biscuits and white chocolate. A higher ABV gives a greater whack of flavour on the palate and the finish.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 46.7%
Find here: £126.95

The Dalmore

Not far from Inverness, on the banks of the Cromarty Firth and overlooking the famous ‘Black Isle’, sits The Dalmore distillery. When descendants of the Clan Mackenzie became owners of The Dalmore distillery in 1867, they brought with them the right to use the two pointed Royal stag emblem, which the family had earned back in 1263 by saving the life of King Alexander the III when he was attacked by a stag! Since then, under the watchful eye of Whyte & Mackay, The Dalmore has become one of the most lauded and sought-after Scotch whisky brands globally.

Where Wood is King

The Dalmore style is founded on the perfection of cask maturation, where each expression sees this ageing in both American white oak ex-bourbon casks and their own, exclusive, aged Sherry casks, each hand-selected by The Dalmore’s Master Distiller, Richard Paterson.  Their core range consists of whiskies aged for 12, 15, 18 and 25 years and then, there is a growing number of luxury expressions with no age-statement, such as the King Alexander III and their Cigar Malt. We are also now seeing an impressive range of ultra luxury whiskies come from The Dalmore, such as the 1951 vintage ‘Sirius’ and other vintage whiskies aged in fine wine barrels.

The Dalmore Style

The Dalmore is famous for dark coppery, rich and chocolatey whiskies with notes of dried, tropical fruit, spice and vanilla thanks to its exceptional wood programme. A close, long term relationship with sherry house González Byass that began over 100 years ago has meant that The Dalmore has exclusive access to rare casks, which have previously held exceptional, old sherries such as a 30 year old Matusalem oloroso sherry. It is these sherry casks that add to the quintessential Dalmore style.

Watch us at The Dalmore here

Three Dalmore Whiskies to Try

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve

Deemed the ideal accompaniment to the finest cigars but equally delicious without, this is a single malt matured in American, white oak ex-bourbon casks, Matusalem oloroso sherry casks and wine barriques that previously held Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a rich, figgy and creamy malt that’s round and sweet with a hint of mint for freshness from the Cabernet and subtle notes of exotic spice from the sherry cask. The finish is exceptionally long. The current available release is the second iteration of the famed Cigar Malt that was brought back by popular demand!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £76.85 // US $169.99

The Dalmore 18 Year Old

This whisky is a perfect example of The Dalmore’s trademark, bold house style, with bombastic notes of chocolate orange, vanilla and fruitcake thanks to its maturation time in both bourbon and aged, Matusalem oloroso sherry casks.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £119.99 // US $199.99

The Dalmore King Alexander III

This ultra premium whisky is named in homage to the king who was saved from a stag by former owners of The Dalmore. It’s a very special whisky blend created by Master Distiller Richard Paterson using a selection of differently aged malts, which between them have been matured in six types of wood including French wine casks, madeira drums, sherry butts, marsala barrels, port pipes and bourbon barrels from Kentucky. As you would expect, this is an incredibly complex, textured whisky packed full of dried fruit and nut flavours, cocoa powder, vanilla pod and spicy oak, all with undertones of red fruit from the wine casks. Let it sit in your glass and experience different flavours in every sip. Delicious!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £159.80 // US $279.99

 Fettercairn

The founder of Fettercairn, Sir Alexander Ramsay, was one of the first Scottish landowners to campaign and apply for an official licence for distillation amidst a sea of illicit distilling. He received the licence in 1824 and opened the Fettercairn distillery. Being no fool, Sir Ramsay employed some of the best illegal distillers in the land to ensure that his legal whiskies were the best around!

The Fettercairn distillery was opened in the small town of the same name that sits under the Grampian foothills in the Howe of Mearns in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It’s a quiet, rural place, where once there was a very special visit from Queen Victoria and her husband Albert, who had a secret stay at the Ramsay Arms just down the road from the distillery.

A Whisky Waterfall

At Fettercairn, there has always been a tradition for doing things a little differently and in the mid-1950s, the distillers here found an innovative way to create a purer expression of their delicious spirit. It was the invention of a cooling ring. They found that if they poured cold water down the side of the copper still, it increased condensation inside, allowing only the lightest vapours to rise and be collected. The result was that even today, they still have a copper tube wrapped around the top of the still to continually pour water down it, thus enhancing the unique, tropical character of the new make and giving Fettercairn its signature, tropical fruitiness.

Watch us at Fettercairn here

Three Fettercairn Whiskies to Try

Fettercairn 12 Year Old

The youngest in the newly revitalised core range from Fettercairn, the 12 Year Old whisky aims to show off the tropical fruit notes and floral character that the distillery is famous for. It was matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks for 12 years which gives it a gentle, ginger spice note and some savoury weight and toffee flavours on the finish. It’s a great place to start your exploration of Fettercairn whisky.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £37.94

Fettercairn 22 Year Old

This a is fantastic, mid-age statement whisky for Fettercairn, showcasing the distillery’s tropical fruit characteristics. Matured for 22 years in ex-bourbon casks, you can expect heaps of spiced orange peel, mango and dark cherry jam up front, with dried fruit flavours and savoury kick of liquorice and coffee bean on the finish. Smooth and lingering. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 47%
Find here: £169.95

Fettercairn 28 Year Old

A stunning, splash-out whisky with serious age on it from Fettercairn’s ‘waterfall’ cooling ring still and matured in ex-bourbon casks. This whisky is a complex blend of the distillery’s characteristic bright tropical fruit character with more savoury notes of toffee, espresso, fruit and nut chocolate. On the finish, a slick of liquorice and ginger spices things up a bit. Exceptional whisky!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 47%
Find here: £500

You can watch us visit all these distilleries in The Three Drinkers do Scotch whisky live on Amazon Prime.

Want some more specific recommendations from these distilleries? Here are Colin’s picks for The Best of Whyte & Mackay: The Dalmore, Jura and Fettercairn.

Saucy Gin Cocktails Perfect for Romantic Nights

Whether you’re zooming with friends or having a romantic night à deux this Valentine’s Day, these pink and pretty gin creations are the perfect way to start the evening. Created by our friends at The Cotswolds Distillery, here are three delicious, easy-to-make cocktail suggestions for you to enjoy on Valentine’s night in the comfort of your own home. Let us know which one you go for! 

The Hanky Panky

This is The Cotswolds Distillery’s take on the classic cocktail, initially created by Ada Coleman who was the first female head bartender of the Savoy, in the early 1900s. It’s incredibly complex with botanical flavours of pine, juniper, vanilla, earthy herbs, smoky spice and a touch of citrus freshness. 

Ingredients:
45ml Dry Gin
45m Vermouth
10ml Freshly squeezed orange juice
5ml Amaro (try Cotswolds Whisky Amaro Liqueur No.2)
Garnish: Orange peel twist

Method:
Place all of the ingredients into an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake and fine strain into a chilled martini glass. 

The Cherry Love 

A tangy, sweet and citrusy cocktail with ripe cherry flavours that lift the dark fruits and smoky char from the whisky, finishing with a light silky spice. Complex and indulgent!

Ingredients:
50ml Single Malt Whisky
30ml Pink grapefruit
15ml Cherry syrup
15ml Egg white or aquafaba

Method:
Place all of the ingredients into a shaker and dry shake (without ice). Add ice, shake and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with grated dark chocolate and a Maraschino cherry.

The Cotswolds Wild Passion Spritz 

An incredibly refreshing, deliciously fruity and effervescent cocktail,  bursting with sweet orange and tart citrus.

Ingredients:
50ml Cotswolds No.1 Wildflower Gin
25ml Lemon juice
15ml Passion fruit syrup
Top up with champagne or soda
Garnish: Passion fruit

Method:
Place all of the ingredients into an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake and strain over ice into a gin glass. Top up with champagne or soda and stir and garnish with passion fruit.

Try these:
Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky (ABV: 46%) UK £37.73 // US $61.79
Cotswolds Dry Gin (ABV: 46%) UK £32 // US $46.79
Cotswolds No 1 Wildflower Gin (ABV 41.7%) £34.95
Cotswolds Amaro No 2 (ABV 40%) £34.95
Cotswolds Vermouth (ABV 16%) £23.95

4 Great Scotch Whisky Alternatives

Words by Helena Nicklin

Burns Night is upon us once again, but not everyone feels the love of Scotch whisky (crazy, we know!) Here are some drinks with a nod to Scotch whisky without actually being whisky themselves. Intrigued? Read on!

Wine

Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon

Here’s the wine drinker’s choice for Burns Night: wine aged in Scotch whisky barrels! The Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel range includes Shiraz and Chardonnay finished in aged Scotch whisky barrels (there’s also a Cabernet Sauvignon finished in Irish whisky barrels. Note that for St Patrick's day!)

These bold, fruity and spicy wines with great texture are matured at first in traditional, oak  wine barrels but then are finished - just like whisky can be - in aged whisky barrels to build additional layers of complexity.

Find here: UK Chardonnay £12 // US Shiraz $21.99

Spirits

Storywood Speyside 14 Añejo Tequila (ABV: 40%)

Created by founder Michael Ballantyne who was born in Scotland and raised in Texas, Storywood is described as ‘a tequila with the heart of Mexico and the soul of Scotland’. 

This 100% Agave Tequila was aged for 14 months in single malt whisky casks from Speyside, Scotland to create a unique, sipping Tequila that’s great on the rocks or with simple mixers. Think oak, nuts and treacle. It also makes an epic Old Fashioned. Personally, I’d call that a New Fashioned...

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £53.20

No & Low

Crossip ‘Dandy Smoke’

This non- alcoholic ‘spirit’ packs a smoky, medicinal punch that reminds me of Islay Scotch whisky. Rich and viscous, this is a drink that’s fantastic alone over ice or with simple mixers like cola or ginger ale in highballs. It also makes a great Maple Old Fashioned. Crossip are worth checking out for their good causes too. A great product to support!

Find here: £22

Splash Out!

Havana Club Tributo 2019 (ABV 40%)

This extraordinary and exceptionally rare ‘peated’ rum was created with the help of three generations of Cuban rum masters, where each selected a rare, oak-aged rum base from numerous decades. The fourth release in the ‘Tributo’ range, it has been finished in Scotch whisky casks that used to hold peated whisky. Only 2,500 were made. Get in there! Don’t we all deserve a treat?

Find here: £350

Want to try some ACTUAL Scotch Whiskies? Here are some of our favourites.

Wine & Spirits Delivery: Lockdown 3 Guide

This week, several friends have asked us to find out which merchants would deliver booze to them as Majestic are overrun. We put out a tweet to see which wine writers had written one of those incredible lists and then people starting replying, telling us that they were also delivering booze. 

Note: If you are not currently featured on this list please FILL IN THE FORM BELOW.

MERCHANTS NATIONWIDE

Brixton Wine Club

Not your Mum and Dad's wine club. BWC sell premium wines, but in cans - no need for an underground cellar or fancy wine fridge. Just great wines, ready to drink at a moment’s notice. Choose from the Juice Box, Simply Red, All White, Rosé All Day or the 100% Fizz and join us. Either for a one-off box or an ongoing subscription. We also do monthly Taste-A-Longs on IG Live and can hold private virtual wine tastings.

brixtonwineclub.com

Jackson & Seddon

We are an award-winning UK based importer of artisan, organic wine from small independent producers in Italy. We choose to work with sustainable, boutique winemakers, because we find they put a great deal more love and passion into their work.

jacksonandseddon.com

Cellar Door Wines

Cellar Door Wines is an independent wine merchant specialising in high quality wine from around the world along with craft beers, spirits and liqueurs. They have a bespoke wine club and also run virtual wine tasting events. Buyer, Penny Edwards, has a passion for South African, Italian and organic wine and this is reflected in their broad portfolio of unique products.

cellardoorwines.co.uk

Marlo

Here at Marlo, we deliver fine wine by the bottle to your door. Born out of a vision to give people access to serious wine by the individual bottle, we have curated a superb selection of wines, all offering exceptional value and delivered directly the next working day. Using 100% sustainable materials, the wine is also beautifully wrapped and includes a hand-written note - it's the perfect way to indulge during lockdown or to send a lovely gift without leaving the house! Find us on Instagram @marlowine.

www.marlo.wine

Vinkind

We’re delighted to introduce you to Vinkind - a new online wine shop which helps you explore by taste and food pairing! We focus on delicious yet affordable wines from smaller producers and have a strong selection of vegan and organic wines. Be sure to check out Vinkind.com and use code - 3DRINKERS - for 15% off our range.

http://www.vinkind.com

Berkmann Wine Cellars

Short Description: Berkmann Wine Cellars has announced it is reopening its industry-leading Help 4 Hospitality scheme, the pop-up online wine shop that helped raise over £75K for individuals and businesses within the hospitality sector during the spring lockdown… This time, Berkmann Wine Cellars has chosen to increase the share of revenue donated to the industry from 12.5% to 20%.

 https://www.help4hospitality.com/

Wine Shop Lanzarote

Importer and online retailer of Lanzarote’s truly unique volcanic wine and craft beer.

 http://www.wineshoplanzarote.com

Gerrard Seel Ltd

 Wine merchants and shippers. Home delivery is our pleasure through U.K. mainland. Great quality at sensible prices.

http://gerrardseel.co.uk

9 Elms Wines

A treasure trove of award-winning wines & spirits from family owned, boutique producers. Many of which were previously only available in top restaurants. We offer a global range from old world classics to rarer, more esoteric discoveries for the wine explorer. Nationwide delivery.

 http://www.9elmswines.co.uk

Club Vino

Club Vino offers relaxed home wine tasting experience, to be enjoyed in your own time. Sourcing wine from boutique and family owned wineries. Packages include 6 full sized bottle , tasting notes, glass markers and access to an online video where founder and chief sommelier Marco castelanelli will guide your though the wine .

http://Www.club-Vino.co.uk

JF Tobias

A small London-based wine merchants, delivering fine wine nationally throughout lockdown. Safe, secure and rated 5 stars on TrustPilot.

http://www.jftwines.com

The Great Wine Co.

We represent our fantastic producers in the UK and it’s a delight to introduce you to their wines. We also sell spirits, and have mixed cases and gifts.
Free delivery over £50 across uk mainland, swift DPD courier service.

 http://Greatwine.co.uk

BeerGinVino

Finest craft beers, artisan gins and amazing wines from local English & emerging worldwide producers who really care. Local & provincial producers delivered to your door or visit The Hatchery our shop on a destination farm. Free UK delivery*, click & collect and shop openThursday 5-7.30 and Saturday 10-5pm Support & buy local️

 http://www.beerginvino.com

Libiamo Wines

London-based online wine store specialising in Italian wine and spirits. The team has a huge experience in the industry and deep connections with rigorous and talented small wineries throughout Italy. The website also hosts a blog with useful insights into the traditions of Italian winemaking. Most wines are highly prized. Products are delivered in 24/48 hours to UK Mainland.

 http://libiamowines.co.uk

Burgess & Hall

Independent wine shop & bar 353 Winchelsea Rd, London E7 0AQ NOW OFFERING LOCAL HOME DELIVERIES FOR OUTSTANDING WINE & BEER info@burgessandhall.com burgessandhall.com

Cépage

A conscious importer and retailer of unique, hard to find wines. Challenging what you taste, promoting new liquid discovery and removing preconceptions in wine. Available for personal recommendations and bespoke wine expert services.

http://www.cepage.uk/

Cellier

Wines, spirits, beer & gifts - from case deals on your supermarket favourites to great deals on niche products, FREE next day delivery on case deals & purchases over £75

 http://www.cellier.co.uk

DrinKit

We are wine enthusiasts who want to share our love of good, carefully sourced, and affordable wine with you. We want to help vineyards that have truly suffered during these difficult times while creating a community of wine lovers who enjoy discovering undiscovered wines!

 http://Buydrinkit.com

Grape Britannia

The English and Welsh wine specialists - over 200 wines in stock. Lots of amazing English Sparkling Wine of course, but also over 120 still wines of all colours, plus pet nat, charmat, natural, fortified and more.

 http://grapebritannia.co.uk

BloomsYard

The BloomsYard e-shop showcases specialty tea, coffee and wonderful wine - all handpicked for their specific attributes. Read all about each online before you buy.

http://Www.BloomsYard.com/shop

Slurp

Online wine merchant with our flagship retail store based in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Delivery nationwide. Slurp offers you excellent wines from around the world at exceptional value. From New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to French Bordeaux we have something for everyone and we offer FREE next-day delivery when you spend £100 or more. We are continually seeking out new and exciting wines to share with you. Cheers!

http://Slurp.co.uk

 Eynsham CellarsWine Merchant with a shop in Oxfordshire, delivering Nationwide

http://Www.eynshamcellars.com

Husky Wines

Uk agent for the wines of Vinchio Vaglio Serra in Piedmont, N Italy. A co op of two valleys, growing Barbera, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir , Arneis, Moscato , Brachetto amongst others

http://huskywines.co.uk

James Hocking Wine

Leading Californian specialist, James Hocking Wine, is offering free delivery – and same day where possible – to the Andover, Salisbury and Winchester hubs and their surrounding villages. Nationwide delivery is also available. JHW has created a limited-edition "Ultimate Californian Case" comprising six bottles of fine and rare wines from The Golden State. JHW also offers single bottles from its “Fine & Covetable” range, which includes Moone-Tsai 2017 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay; CAMi 2016 Napa Valley Estate Wine; and Scarecrow 2017 M.Etain Cabernet Sauvignon. Many of these wines are usually destined for restaurant sales and are available to private customers for the first time.

 http://www.jameshockingwine.com.

The Drop Store

Short Description: Shop for award-winning premium spirits, craft beers and wines, exclusive brands not available on the high street from one of UK’s most established drinks specialists.

 http://thedropstore.com/

The Wine Barn

German wine specialist! A mixed case of twelve red, white and sparkling German wines to lighten your evenings and enjoy at home. Delivery included. https://the-winebarn.myshopify.com/products/stay-home-stay-safe

Winebuyers.com

Winebuyers.com is an exclusive online wine club with a simple mission: to bring wine and spirits into the 21st century. Using custom built API technology, developed over 18 months, Winebuyers connects wine lovers directly with some of the best vineyards, specialist merchants and distilleries. Winebuyers provides access to over 50,000 bottles, spanning 40 countries, all with zero mark-up and all with a commission free price-tag. Winebuyers.com

Corney & Barrow

Next day delivery within M25 / UK-wide delivery from our Hoddesdon and East Kilbride warehouse corneyandbarrow.com

Thomson and Scott

Offering free delivery on their organic, vegan Prosecco and Noughty (alcohol-free sparkling). Also doing daily live cocktail sessions on their instagram thomsonandscott.com

The Fizz Company

We are delivering wine, sparkling wine and champagne nationwide . Leeds, UK thefizzcompany.com

Noel Young Wines 

We are locally and nationally - thanks for shout out for the indies! Cambridge nywines.co.uk

Ditton Wine Traders

Fast growing fine wine merchants specializing in Bordeaux, Burgundy and Italy. Always well priced. Happily sharing all we know on /dittonwinetraders.co.uk

Elicite

We're a boutique e-commerce wine retailer based in the UK, specialising in wines over £15 and  yes, we're still delivering (express and also no-contact for those that need it), throughout the UK. https://www.elicite.com/

Le Vignoble

Fabulous selection & great service - Wine Lounge, Wine Merchant & Wine Education in the New Cooperage. Royal William Yard, Plymouth levignoble.co.uk

Red Squirrel Wine

We are delivering nationwide, free delivery over £70. Native, alternative & naturally lovely wines online since 2012. “An inspiring range,” Steven Spurrier. Try our new Rosé Tour de France mixed case. London. https://redsquirrelwine.com

BinTwo

Local delivery and mail order. We're that amazing little wine shop, Champagne & coffee bar just off the harbour in Padstow. Come and say hello! Padstow bintwo.com

The Little Fine Wine Company

We are still delivering our wines throughout the UK. Next day service. We specialise in half bottles. thelittlefinewinecompany.co.uk

Georgian Wine

Bringing you the Georgian wine experience... #gvinouk gvinouk.com/wines

Armit Wines

Still delivering in London. Leading contemporary UK #wine merchant. Armit Wines supplies wines from the world's best winemakers to private customers, on-trade and the trade. London armitwines.co.uk

Wines With Attitude

Wines With Attitude is still delivering in England & Wales https://wineswithattitude.co.uk

George Hill Wine & Worth Brothers

Both very good independents in the East Midlands. @GeorgeHillWine @worthbrothers 

Wanderlust Wine

UK based importer of small producers making sustainable organically farmed wine. London, England wanderlustwine.co.uk

Hawkins Bros.

Specialist English Wine Merchants, selling stunning English wines to a thirsty public, based at Secrett's Farm Shop, Milford, Surrey. hawkinsbros.co.uk

The Real English Drinks House

We are still operating and delivering nationally. We stock fine English wines, craft beers and artisan spirits. http://redh.co.uk

Feelgood Grapes

The online wine shop championing all things sustainable, organic, and biodynamic in the world of wine. https://www.feelgoodgrapes.com/shop

Good Wine x Good People

Introducing a new way to order wine online! We offer personalised wine selections, paired with YOU - for your palate, your meal, moment or mood. Central to this process is our Personal Somm Questionnaire, a few simple questions to help us get to know you and your preferences. Seasoned wine educator Dan Belmont then gets to work choosing your wine selection and writing personalised tasting notes! We also offer limited edition collections which include an exclusive video greeting from one of the featured winemakers! Most UK deliveries in 2 business days, free shipping on all orders over £150.

Use code GOODPEOPLES for 5% off your first order!

http://www.goodwinexgoodpeople.com

MySomm

We are a family-run online wine merchant based in South West London. Our dream is for wine to be more approachable and less elitist. With this in mind we are ready to take on any wine related questions you have to help you buy the perfect wine for you. We look forward to helping and recommending where we can. We store a selection of great value and quality wines from around the world, specialising in wines from America.

http://mysomm.co.uk

Natty Boy Wines

Short Description: Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wine Specialists. Same day delivery in London and next day UK wide.

http://Www.nattyboywines.co.uk

VINEYARDS

Amber Valley Wines

A Derbyshire vineyard, producer and merchant selling a range of high quality English wines, local spirits, cider and ­ales. Free local and national delivery available. Tel: 07920484207

www.ambervalleywines.co.uk/shop

Alder Vineyard

Alder Vineyard is a family run vineyard, based in Devon. We ship our award winning wines throughout mainland UK, and offer local delivery.

http://ALDERVINEYARD.UK

Woodchester Valley Vineyard

Outstanding still and sparkling wines from the Cotswolds.
Vegan, low sulfite and sustainable.

http://www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk

Dalwood Vineyard

A very small CoOp in Devon. We make about 6000 bottles of award winning Brut and Still wines
Exclusive and Different.

http://dalwoodvineyard.co.uk

Rathfinny Wine Estate

 Producing Sparkling wines to rival the best in the world from a vineyard in the Sussex South Downs, near Alfriston. Available online for delivery across the UK or from our Cellar Door shop and various independent wine merchants.

http://rathfinnyestate.com/

Lyme Bay Winery

The Devon based winery makes award-winning still and sparkling English wines and offers free delivery on orders over £20. They are also currently offering 10% off all English wines with the code GOODFRIDAY10 https://www.lymebaywinery.co.uk/english-wines

WineGB.co.uk

Search here for English & Welsh vineyards near you that deliver to your door. WineGB.co.uk

Tickerage Wines

Boutique vineyard specialising in Sussex sparkling wines. Next working day delivery service. Sussexsparklingwines.co.uk

Flint Vineyards

Innovative Norfolk vineyard and winery, blending cutting edge science with traditional winemaking techniques. Times Top 100 Wines & Indy Best Buy 2018. We're offering free next day delivery nationwide on orders of 2 bottles or more. flintvineyard.com

Gusbourne

Award-winning wines from Kent. Wherever you are in the mainland UK, Gusbourne continues to offer free delivery on all orders, no minimum order required. gusbourne.com

Breaky Bottom

Sussex sparkling wines. Delivering to your door. Free delivery in April for cases of 6 wines. Breakybottom.co.uk

Dunleavy Vineyard 

I’m sending out mainland uk orders and delivering local. Award Winning English Wine | Bristol-Bath-Somerset-London | Instagram & FB Dunleavy Vineyards. Bristol & Somerset dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

Domaine du Météore

We are still delivering their great tasting case of reds in the UK with 20% off. http://domainedumeteore.com from the only vines in the world grown in a meteorite crater!

Carr Taylor Wines

We are one of the longest established vineyards in England, making fine English wines since 1971, in the heart of 1066 country. East Sussex. We're offering free delivery to mainland UK on all orders. carr-taylor.co.uk

Fox & Fox Vineyards

Boutique grower-producer of crafted English Sparkling Wines. Sussex. foxandfox.wine

Paso-Primero

Paso-Primero is an independent, family run company in Somontano in the central Pyrenees of northern Spain. Winemakers Thomas and Emma Holt settled here to achieve their ambition of making their own wines, in their own style. Their award winning wines are available throughout the UK, distributed direct from the winemakers in their hometown of Shrewsbury.

 http://www.paso-primero.com

COCKTAILS, SPIRITS , MEAD & MORE

York Gin

Short Description: We offer free UK delivery on our full range of dry gins. We regularly win major international gold and silver medals - our Old Tom is one of the world’s best. Our distillery runs on 100% green electricity, and all our products and packaging are plastic free.

http://yorkgin.com

Speakeasy At Home

Helping to light up your lockdown, Speakeasy at Home is a brand new, UK-wide cocktail delivery platform bringing together offerings from three of the world’s best bars, Swift, Nightjar and Oriole. Each cocktail is available in 220ml pouches (2 servings) and 500ml bottles (5 servings), catering for smaller and larger household alike from just £6.00 per cocktail. Several mix-and-match deals and gifting options also make it possible to experience all three bars under your own roof for less - the perfect indulgent treat or present over the festive period in lieu of in-person catch ups over cocktails, Christmas parties and seasonal drinks. Over the coming weeks, we will also launch a range of Christmas and New Year cocktail sets, alongside a subscription model for monthly themed deliveries.

http://www.speakeasyathome.co.uk

Easy Social Cocktail Co.

The easy social cocktail co was started by a group of friends who believe in a simple idea – life is better when we mix. Our cocktails include the 'very naughty boy martini', 'super strawberry negroni' and 'holy sassy molassy old fashioned' all available in 500ml bottle or eco pouch. Already have enough booze at home? Try our 'make mine a…' range: simply add to your favourite spirit and give a little shake or stir to turn your dram into a delicious cocktail. We also offer a bespoke cocktail service - the perfect present for the cocktail lover in your life.

https://easysocialcocktail.co/

Sociovino

Created by a team of former sommeliers, Sociovino gives you online wine expertise without the fuss, importing wines from small producers with big flavours. Build your own case, select from one of our themed collections or enjoy one of our cocktail kits.

http://www.sociovino.com

Sky Wave Gin

Craft Gin Distillery based near Bicester in Oxfordshire, producing traditional hand crafted gin in micro batches using the one-shot method. Began life in 2018 and won "World's Best Contemporary Gin" at the 2020 World Gin Awards for our signature London Dry Gin. Offering FREE 2nd class Postage & Packaging until 2 December 2020.

 http://www.skywavegin.com

Northumberland Honey Co - Beekeepers & Mead Makers

Commercial Beekeepers & Mead Makers. Traditional Method Sparkling Mead and quality honey. Beekeeping experiences, courses & bees. Talks & tastings. We're still delivering. Haltwhistle northumberlandhoney.co.uk

Sipping Liquor

We’re still delivering spirits! Get a curated selection of the world's finest spirits delivered to your door. Use the code TWITTER at checkout to get your first box for just £40. United Kingdom sippingliquor.com/join

The Single Cask

We ship awesome single cask whisky world wide. They’re all top quality, cask strength, and non chill filtered - presented in a decanter style bottle to make pouring a dram a moment of celebration. www.thesinglecask.co.uk

The Good Spirits Company

We aim to provide you with superb customer service, the best possible selection of fine wines & spirits from every corner of the world and we work with scores of suppliers to track down hard to find bottles. We are also trialling a free local delivery service for the Glasgow area. www.thegoodspiritsco.com

The Dram Team

Our subscription box club delivers unique whisky tastings to your door once a month; simple, easy, educational - and most of all, delicious. www.thedramteam.co.uk

GREAT LISTS OF RETAILERS COMPILED BY OTHERS

Jancis Robinson - Jancisrobinson.com  HERE

Susie Barrie & Peter Richards -  thewinefestival.co.uk HERE

Victoria Moore - The Telegraph HERE

Three Wine Men - HERE

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One Drink, Three Ways: Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

One Drink, Three Ways is the signature feature by The Three Drinkers. Join Helena, Aidy and Colin as they take one bottle and create a trio of phenomenal serves that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. From rums and whiskies to gins and wine styles, The Three help you get the most out of your glass. It’s time to get liquid on lips.

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Cocchi Vermouth di Torino: THE go-to vermouth of choice for mixologists and drinks enthusiasts alike. Hailing from Piedmont in Northeastern Italy, this top-of-the-range vermouth has a unique and much-loved character thanks to a recipe dating back to 1891, which includes Moscato wine, bittersweet herbs and aromatic spices such as wormwood, rhubarb and citrus. Also known fondly as Cocchi Torino, this distinctive and delicious vermouth lends itself to all the definitive cocktails such as the Negroni, The Manhattan, The Americano and Martini, though it makes some staggeringly good twists on these classics.

The Three Drinkers each share their favourite ways to taste it….

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Helena’s Choice: Bloody Negroni

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I love a Negroni with a little more sweetness than some so for me, the red fruit flavours from the Chambord and cherry bitters together with the aromatics from the Shiraz Gin really elevate this Negroni and make it super-approachable. Maraschino cherries are also back in a big way, so if you have some, pop one on a stick and maybe, if no one's looking, pour in a dash of the syrup too. Naughty but so nice!

Bloody Negroni

Recipe

25ml Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

25ml Gin (I love Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin)

15ml Campari

10ml Chambord

2 Dashes of cherry bitters

Garnish: Maraschino cherry on a stick

Glassware: Tumbler

Method: This is such a simple cocktail, which is partly why I love it. Combine all the elements (bar the cherries) into a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously, then strain and pour over a large, single chunk of ice into a tumbler. Garnish with your cherry on a stick.

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Aidy’s Choice: Classic Negroni

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Negroni’s are loved for a reason, they are simple to make, and done right they taste bloody fantastic. A great vermouth and gin are what bind this together so perfectly, so make sure you choose something quality-driven like the below. Make this at your next gathering with family or friends and you’ll impress the hell out of everyone you’re with!

Classic Negroni

Recipe

25ml Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

25ml London Dry Gin

25ml Campari

Garnish: orange peel

Method: Making the Classic Negroni couldn’t be easier: pour the ingredients into an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes, stir, stir and stir some more and then garnish with the orange peel.

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Colin’s Choice: Twist on a Spritz

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Cocchi is an old time favourite of mine and I like it with minimal intervention to really let those herbaceous, bitter flavours shine. This refreshing spritz, with its lower alcohol content than many a highball, is a perfect aperitif to reset your palate. Every Friday should start with these!

Twist on a Spritz

Recipe

50ml Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

100ml Tonic water (I love Franklin & Sons Rosemary and Black Olive)

Garnish: Rosemary sprig

Glassware: White wine glass

Method: Add your Cocchi to the wine glass over crushed ice, pour in your tonic to taste (I’d suggest 2 parts tonic to 1 part vermouth) and garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary. Perfect for any time of year!

UK
ABV: 16%
Size: 750ml
Buy it now for £23