8 Gins to Watch Out for in 2024

Alongside Dry January, there was also Ginuary for those of us still heartily sipping away. Gin has been massively popular for years now, with a steady stream of botanical beauties focusing on sustainability, local ingredients, unique terroir, and innovative, fresh flavours. It helps that the bottles tend to be easy on the eye too.

But, as with any drinks trend, there are some not so impressive bottles sneaking in. With another gincredible year ahead of us, these are some of the bottles we really enjoyed this Ginuary to look out for in 2024.

Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin

We’ve featured some of the Sassenach portfolio a few times because it really is one of the finest ‘celebrity drinks’ going. If you don’t know, it’s the passion project of Outlander star Sam Heughan (aka Jamie Fraser). It’s a London Dry style that brings together 8 Dumfries and Galloway botanicals for remarkable freshness with rhubarb, bramble leaf, crabapple, toasted oats, and heather to name a few. The juniper heart is stunning. From the bottle to the last sip, everything about this gin is stunning.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £44.90

Greater Than Broken Bat Gin

The winner of the Gin Guide Awards for India last year, this is a really interesting London dry style gin because it’s infused with toasted Kashmir willow... sourced from broken cricket bats. The resulting notes of mellow, woody vanilla intertwine with a little sweet spice for a distinct sipper that, at 47%, won’t go unnoticed. More Asian botanical based gins are expected in 2024, and this could be one of the most popular.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £36.95

Sir Edmond Gin

This is an incredible smooth Dutch gin with that has picked up some of the most prestigious awards going. If you like vanilla, then you will love this because Réunion Island vanilla takes centre stage alongside prominent juniper. The fundamental botanical backdrop (angelica and cardamom) lay in the wings alongside the warmth of ginger and cinnamon for sweet and earthy gem.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38.82

Henstone Rosè Gin

There is so much going on with this gin, which goes some way to explaining its emphatic victory in the highly competitive British category at Gin Guide Awards last year. First off, and what hits you on the nose, the oak. It’s aged in American oak giving a richness normally associated with whisky. These earthy woody notes carry a little spice with coriander and cardamom, and in terms of Rosé, expect less berries and more vanilla florality.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44.9%
Find here: £38.50

Blackeye Gin

Behind this gin are rugby legends Alex Payne, James Haskell, and Mike Tindall, and £1.50 from each sale goes to the Blackeye Rugby Fund to aid research and recovery. It’s citrus forward this one, with a scrum of botanicals from some of the world’s biggest rugby playing nations. It’s even got a secret ingredient don’t you know! For a citrussy G&T, there’s not much better.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.95

Sky Wave Signature London Dry Gin

If you’re into gin, then there’s a good chance you’re on board with Sky Wave already, but if not then 2024 is the year for it. A craft distillery from two adventures in Oxfordshire, they celebrate the places they’ve been as well as their home country. They’ve just had a premium rebrand that looks stunning, but more importantly the liquid inside is amazing. Winning gong after gong, their signature London Dry is zinging with crisp and tangy notes and balanced sweetness with locally foraged blackberries and raspberries. It used to be 500ml, but now it’s 700ml, which you will be very grateful for after that first sip.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £41.84 (usually more!)

Ukiyo Yuzu Gin

Yuzu has been one of the botanicals blazing a trail for Asian gins, and we expect that to continue because it is delicious. This Japanese gin makes the most of it, delivering a citrus explosion (similar to grapefruit and mandarin). The base spirit uses distilled shochu, which is redistilled with juniper, mandarin and of course, yuzu. Expect aromatic zest and elegant tang. One for summer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.90

Broken Bones Old Tom Gin

This is one of the best Old Toms we’ve tried. Distilled in Ljublijana, Slovenia, it focuses on local juniper and a big hit of floral botanicals with rosehips and linden flowers. Slovenian honey is added for signature Old Tom sweetness, and it is just so difficult not to love the final expression. Serial award winner, bright with florality and citrus, a little juniper spice – nom. It costs a bit more than most at 500ml, but it is so worth it, honestly.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £44.49

These are the gins we think have a big year ahead of them, but of course there are many more that we loved last year. If a classic G&T is your go to, then what about these beauties?

8 Unusual Alcoholic Drinks That Actually Taste Good

These drinks may have eyebrow raising ingredients or concoctions, but when you take that first sip, you can expect enough eyebrow raise because they are delicious. Great drinks aren’t afraid to experiment and innovate, and these do just that. Sometimes it doesn’t work, but here it most definitely does. So, if you’re after a curious bottle to gift for someone’s birthday, or perhaps a Valentine’s Present, then explore these tasty creations below.

Ukiyo Blossom Gin

Produced in the shadow of the Sakurajima volcano, the outcome is a delicate, fantastically floral gin. Shōchū spirit is distilled again with juniper, local mandarin orange, and a host of Japanese botanicals, the most stand out of which is aromatic cherry blossom. It’s light and bright but has earth juniper and angelica root too. The Sakura flower inclusion is strong no doubt, and won’t please everyone, but if you love it, you’ll really love it. We can’t not mention this bottle too, which is absolutely stunning and 100% a must keep once you’ve drained it.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Price: £36.99 (usually more!)

Jaffa Cake Gin

This is one of those gins that will pique your curiosity, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be desperate to try. This timeless treat has been repurposed to flavour gin, but don’t go thinking it’s overly sweet and unnatural. Fresh orange peel is used, cocoa powder and get this, actual Jaffa cakes for that authentic, unmistakable taste. Far from being just a gimmick, this won the most prestigious award for flavoured gin in 2021, as well as other top awards, praised for its delicacy, balance and crowd-pleasing flavour. It’s become iconic for a Negroni so give it a go!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Price: £29.95

The Kraken Black Spiced Rum - Roast Coffee

This is a really interesting sipper. It brings the sweetness of a cold brew Arabica coffee and therefore more of a liqueur vibe than a rum (though at 40%, be careful). If you’re into pure rums then this probably isn’t for you, but if you love coffee and sweeter rums, you have to try this. It’s unique in this space, with a dessert style to it. It’s smooth, the spice holds strong, particularly on the finish. The Kraken awakes!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Price: £26.90

Captain Morgan Tiki Mango & Pineapple Spirit

This is a full, unashamed celebration of tropical rum. Inside the devilish tiki bottle is a much lighter but still punchy rum spirit compared with the original, but don’t be expecting a dark rum like that. The pineapple and mango are sweet and vibrant, but there’s enough bitterness for balance too with a little pepper for warmth. If someone is into cocktails, then this would be a great addition for a splash of sunshine.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Price: £19.95

Tequila Rose Strawberry Liqueur

Tequila Rose has icon status by now, providing many a tequila shot alternative that actually tastes nice. Tequila spirit is joined by strawberry cream liqueur, a mix that won’t please too many agave purists, but the results are splendid. It’s deliciously sweet and creamy like a grown-up strawberry milkshake. Yes it’s not the most complex and challenging drink in the world, far from it, but if you want a tasty boozy treat that is guaranteed to hit the spot, tequila rose is tailor made for it

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Price: £13.75

1800 Coconut Spirit

This is lighter, coconut spin on a silver Blanco Tequila, a flavour that you don’t usually associate with the Mexican spirit. Nonetheless, it works. The grassy agave still comes through, matching up with the natural coconut flavouring nicely. The smoothness is incredible, and there are all kinds of cocktails it would elevate. Imagine a less creamy Piña Colada and you’re getting there – curious and divine.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Price: £39.49

Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Liqueur

How about this for an American delight? Whiskey with peanut butter. It’s nutty paradise and would be so good in cocktails. Imagine a peanut butter Old Fashioned? Creamy oak and vanilla come through as the nuttiness fades away on the finish, and it’s just so easy drinking. Don’t think of it as a flavoured whiskey, it’s very much its own thing, and if you like peanut butter and whiskey, it would be so difficult not to love this.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Price: £21.95 (usually more!)

Puschkin Nuts & Nougat Liqueur

Forget chocolate bars, we’re talking about nuts and nougat in booze. More specifically, vodka. Puschkin make award-winning vodka, so the base spirit here is fantastically smooth, and now it’s got this ‘Kinder Bueno’ esque twist, it is to die for. The balance is spot on with this one, and it really is dangerously easy to drink.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 17.5%
Price: £12.94 (usually more!)

If you want to take a look as some weird but wonderful bottles, have a gander at these.

The Best from Down Under: 8 Australian Wines and Spirits You Have to Try

We’ve turned Down under upside down to find their greatest wines and spirits, perfect for Australia Day but also any other day, let’s be honest!

Aussie grape vines are some of the oldest in the world, and with such diverse terroir, it’s no wonder that Aussies only import 20% of their wine – they know they’ve got some of the best already on their doorstep.

Whilst wines might be their best-known output, they’re also flourishing with spirits, producing some delicious, distinct, and characterful bottles that we love. These are 8 you have to try.

Spirits

Brookie's Byron Dry Gin

The work of the Brook Family at their Cape Byron Distillery, this gin is a celebration of the unique terroir of the Northern Rivers. 17 of the 25 botanicals are native to this area around Byron Bay, including raspberries, cinnamon, aniseed, finger limes, river mint and macademia. Juniper ultimately leads the way, but backed up by raspberry, liquorice, macademia, zesty citrus and lively cinnamon… there is so much to love. It makes incredible Gin Martinis.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £38.74

Starward Fortis Whisky

Big but elegant, this bold single malt shows what Australia whisky can do. It’s matured completely in American oak that previously held red wine, so you get plenty of jammy berries, dried fruits and oaky vanilla. The sips are super smooth too, coating the mouth with warming cinnamon and clove spice. With richness and depth of flavour, this is incredibly well rounded and well worth picking up.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 50%
Find here: £58.95 (usually more!)

Regal Rogue Wild Rosé Vermouth

We love Regal Rogue because they really go for it with the wines in their Vermouth selection. With Wild Rosé, they deliver a big and bright fruit-forward expression making the most of native Illawara plums, rosella, and strawberries with Barossa Cabernet Rosé for a stunning red fruit symphony. Refreshing, complex, subtle and satisfying.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 16.5%
Find here: £18.30

Bundaberg Rum

Some people refuse to accept this Queensland gem is a rum because it doesn’t quite reach the 37.5% minimum ABV, but when you taste it you won’t care one bit. The slightly lower percentage gives way to demerara sweetness with heaps of spicy molasses. Bundaberg is known for its distinctive character, carrying heaps of sugary spice right through to the mellow finish. It's smooth and soft but we’d recommend it with a mixer like ginger beer to get the most out of it.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37%
Find here: £32.04 (usually more!)

Manly Spirits Co. Marine Botanical Vodka

This Sydney distillery focuses on maximum flavour extraction using Australian wheat. In fact, the process is just like a gin but without the juniper. Sustainable native marine botanicals like sea parsley and kelp produce a maritime, savoury profile with the perfect touch of salt. If you’re into Dirty Martinis, then an umami gem like this is a must try.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.6%
Find here: £34.79

Wine

Greasy Fingers Chardonnay

Quite a newcomer from Pernod Ricard, this decadent drop fulfils its label promise of ‘big and buttery’. Oaky vanilla hits from the first sip, and the palate fills out with orchard fruits, but it’s the buttery, creamy deliciousness that steals the show, and makes this a tremendous companion for, as they say, greasy foods.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £10

Mino & Co A Growers Touch Durif 2022

There’s such a beautiful colour to this Aussie red – an inviting crimson red. Mulberry and blueberry dominate a seductive nose, followed by signature Durif palate flavours of dark fruits, hints of vanilla and coconut, and powerful mulberry again. A little oaky spice on the finish too. This is a wine that booms.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10.98

Bird in Hand Sparkling

Sarah Burvill, one of the world’s leading winemakers, is at the helm of Bird in Hand in the Adelaide Hills, and her fizz is top notch. It’s her flagship style, all starting from some of the world’s oldest, richest soils. Behind that beautiful blush is a tantalising and elegant warm climate dryness, with strawberries from the Pinot Noir and pretty, fruity depths.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £15.99

Of course, this is just a drop in the ocean (albeit a delicious drop) when it comes to Australian wine. Check out more of the best Down Under wines here!

The Best Scotch Whisky to Sip This Burns Night

If there’s one night to open a special bottle of whisky, then it’s Burns Night. If you’re celebrating the Scottish poet (or just looking for excuse to drink and feast), then you’ll want a Scotch that’s a guaranteed hit. We’ve pulled together some of best whiskies whatever your budget and preference - Sláinte Mhath!

The Best Scotch Whisky Under £35

Black Bottle Captain's Cask - Alchemy Series Whisky

Inside this gorgeous retro bottle is a round-the-world journey from Scotland to the Caribbean. Smooth malts meet intense ones, as well as aged grain and peated malts, all before finishing in rum casks. As a result, the depth is fantastic, with subtle wafts of smoke, raisins, coffee, oak, and caramel. A complete flavour explosion.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46.3%
Find here: £28.95

Angels’ Nectar Original Whisky

This is a great blend of Speyside and Highland malts, and a step above most of the blended whiskies in supermarkets. The nose is delicate and pleasantly grassy until the first sip unveils tasty oat notes, orchard fruits, toffee, and a little vanilla, before the peppery finish.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%    
Find here: £33.95

Creag Dhu Whisky

The backdrop of this beautiful bottle lets you know what Creag Dhu are all about. If you like smoky scotch, then you should be aware that the peat burning required isn’t all that great for the environment – with carbon release and biodiverse peatlands cut into. However, Creag Dhu put money into saving these precious peatlands, and this bottle isn’t peated itself. It’s a Speyside dram, aged for 8 years and all that time in sherry casks delivers luscious, dried fruits, honey notes and nutty malt. The charred spice finish is dreamy.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £33.99

The Best Scotch Whisky Under £50

GlenAllachie 8 Year Old Whisky

This whisky brings all the sherried ageing you expect from GlenAllachie, but as well as two different sherry casks, it’s rested in virgin oak and red wine barriques. The result? Rich, syrupy, fruits, but balanced. Expect warming spice, floral honey, nutty malt, heaps of dried fruits, and a surprising minty finish. Every sip is so interesting, and it’s a great whisky to share around and explore together.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £43.99 (usually more!)

Fettercairn 12 Year Old Whisky

This is a young whisky for Fettercairn, but still carries those tropical, floral notes the distillery is loved for. Old bourbon barrels have used those 12 years to infuse mellow, ginger spice and toffee flavours, which join peach, pear, and vanilla. It’s lovely and accessible, but the masterful balance will impress seasoned dram drainers all the same.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £47.50

Bladnoch Vinaya Whisky

Bladnoch’s new ownership have been doing great things, like Vinaya, their single malt taking on the beautiful flavours of first-fill bourbon and sherry casks. From lowland florals to winter spice, there is a comforting sweetness and dried fruits punch to this expression that is very comforting indeed.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £47.90 (usually more!)

Great Scotch Whisky Over £50

Ardbeg Uigeadail Whisky

Ardbeg is peat, peat is Ardbeg. But perhaps that is a disservice to the exceptional balance this Islay distilleries weaves into their intense, smoky expression. This one is named after a nearby loch and displays the brilliance of their sweet and savoury style. Expect maritime salinity, dried fruits from sherry casks and curious complexity.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 54%
Find here: £59.75

Chivas Regal 18 Year Old Whisky

This is a standout rich and indulgent Scotch, blending over 20 single malts from across Scotland. The awards speak for themselves with this one, picking up international gongs for its excellence. It’s fantastically smooth and silky, with winter spices, malt and marmalade integrated masterfully. Tremendous dram.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £69.95

The Sassenach Blended Scotch Whisky

This is one of the best ‘celebrity drinks’ out there. Maybe the best. It’s the passion project of Sam Heughan (aka Jamie Fraser from Outlander), and shortly after launching it was awarded the prestigious Double Gold at the 2020 World Spirits Competition. Malts between 9 and 20 years old have been delicately blended to deliver mouthwatering caramel, vanilla and baking spices. Dreamy dram.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £79.90 (usually more!)

Whisky and haggis are, of course, a classic combo for Burns Night, but if you fancy some other drinks to pair with it then check out our guide here!

The Top 10 Winter Vodka Cocktails

Brown spirits tend to dominate winter cocktails, but as a neutral spirit, vodka is so adaptable and integrates into the winter flavours wonderfully. It’s punchy and serves as great mixology foundations to build delicious flavours on.

Homemade syrups show up in a few of the recipes below, so for a guide on how to make your own click here! It’s way easier than you might expect and can do amazing things for your cocktails.

Espresso Martini

All the polls show that this is the most popular winter cocktail in the UK, so we just had to include it. The seductive white foam of the meniscus, the rich flavour, the lusciously smooth mouthfeel – you’ve got no chance hibernating after a few of these.  

Ingredients
40ml Vodka
25ml Kahlúa coffee liqueur
25ml cooled espresso
½ tbsp simple syrup
Three coffee beans (garnish)

Method
Shake everything with ice and strain into a pre-chilled martini glass, before garnishing with a beautiful trio of coffee beans for that distinct look.

Hot ‘n’ Minty White Russian

Taking inspiration from the Espresso Martini, this is a sweeter version to warm your cockles. Velvety, deliciously sweet white-hot chocolate is cooled by peppermint syrup, all built on a foundation of robust vodka and rich espresso. It’s viscous, lively, and surprisingly light with the peppermint. A uniquely indulgent concoction indeed.

Ingredients
30ml vodka
25ml espresso shot
80ml white hot chocolate
15ml peppermint syrup
Whipped cream (optional garnish)

Method
As long as your espresso and white-hot chocolate are hot, there’s no need to heat everything else up because some room temp vodka and peppermint syrup will bring the temperature together nicely. It’s just a case of combining everything gently and finishing with some whipped cream for that extra special touch.

Dirty Martini

This is another winter favourite. Getting down and dirty with your Martini brings a fantastic savoury flavour, with a salty, olive-y profile. It’s about as far from the sweet, tropical cocktails of summer as it’s possible to get, but just as satisfying with it’s crisp, saltiness.

Ingredients
70ml vodka
25ml dry Vermouth
15ml pickle juice

Pickles (garnish)

Method
Stir all your ingredients in a mixing glass with ice, and strain into a chilled Martini glass before finishing off with the signature pickle garnish. It might feel strange if this is your first, but chances are it won’t be your last. 

Elderflower Cosmopolitan

We were going to include the standard Cosmo, because that is a stalwart of winter cocktails, but this elderflower version feels a touch more wintery and aromatic. Cocktails are about experimentation after all! The delicious elderflower liqueur brings a mellower, more fragrant, and floral flavour than the usual cranberry. It feels bright and the first sip is a real life to

Ingredients
45ml vodka
20ml elderflower liqueur
20ml pineapple juice
Dash of lemon
Dash of rose water (optional)
Basil (garnish)

Method
All about the shaking here – get those arms pumping until your shaker feels cold to the touch, and strain over large ice cubes. Voila!

White Russian

How could we not? Made iconic in The Big Lebowski, it’s a dreamy combination of vodka, coffee liqueur and cream, resulting in sweet, velvety and undeniably delicious flavours. It’s heavy, indulgent, and loved by everyone, and perfect for wintertime.

Ingredients
60ml vodka
30ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)
15ml heavy cream

Method
Mix everything together before pouring over ice in a small tumbler glass. You could sprinkle chocolate powder or add coffee beans, but keeping it bare like a snowcapped rooftop works great too.

Moscow Mule

The refreshment of a Moscow Mule makes it a summer classic, but the dominant ginger notes absolutely resonate with winter too. It’s one of the original cocktails that made use of vodka when it wasn’t mainstream, which is strange considering it’s now the most popular cocktail spirit. It’s punchy, spicy, and gorgeously light with that fizz.

Ingredients
50ml vodka
80ml ginger beer
Juice of half a lime
Lime wedge (garnish)

Method
You don’t have to have the copper mug, but it really completes the Mule, and keeps it super cool. Just pour vodka and lime juice into the mug over ice, top up with ginger beer and finish with a lime wedge.

Cranberry and Pomegranate Punch

This is one for those winter gatherings saving you the hassle of individual cocktails. It straddles tartness and sweetness perfectly, tasting super refreshing with fruity fizz. As with any punch, you can sort of throw anything in, but we think the balance below is harmonious.

Ingredients (jug)
300ml cranberry juice
350ml pomegranate juice
350ml sparkling wine
100ml vodka
70ml cranberry syrup
2tbsp grenadine
10 mint leaves
4 lime wedges
fresh cranberries and lime (garnish)

Method
Muddle the mint first and fill the bottom of the jug with ice. After that, slowly stir everything except the sparkling wine which you should add last to keep the bubbles going. Scattered in cranberries and lime for brightness, and you’re away.

Pear and Elderflower Collins

A classic Tom Collins is an all-round cocktail, but this fruity makeover really takes it to the next level. Pear puree brings the freshness and pear liqueur brings the sweetness. It’s the lightest, fruitiest cocktail out there and vodka is perfect just to add some steel.

Ingredients (jug)
50ml vodka
15ml elderflower liqueur
2 tsp pear liqueur
25ml pear puree
20ml lemon juice
15m honey
Sparkling water to top up
Pear slice and cinnamon (garnish)

Method
Shake everything but the soda in a shaker with ice until it feels cold, and strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Once you’ve added the sparkling water, be gentle with the stirring to combine. Add a thin slice of pear and a dust of cinnamon for the finishing touches.

Rosemary Fizz

Rosemary is one of the key wintery scents, but it’s difficult to integrate into a cocktail. Here, it just adds an aromatic, herbal undertone to a mellow but vibrant mix of lemon juice, sparkling water and vodka. It is unbelievably refreshing, and so simple to pull together

Ingredients (jug)
50ml vodka
20ml lemon juice
20ml rosemary syrup
Top up with sparkling water
Rosemary and lemon twist (garnish)

Method
Fill a highball glass with ice, strain vodka, rosemary syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice over and top up with those bubbles. Rosemary sprig and lemon twist are a must.

For all the syrups featured, they can be bought, but they’re all simply sugar, water, and whichever flavour you want – so it saves so much money doing it yourself. Give it a go here! If you’re still adhering to Dry Jan or just don’t drink, then check out our Wintery Mocktails here.

7 No-Lo Drinks You’ll Actually Want to Try

Underwhelmed by the non-alcoholic alternatives you’ve tried before? Need something to keep you going through the rest of Dry January? We’re here to help.

We’ve tried lots of No-Lo concoctions and know as well as you do that many of them are lacking. But it’s a flourishing industry and there’s more and more effort and innovation going into it, meaning some tremendous bottles are out there. We’ve listed 7 top notch No-Lo alternatives for some of the most loved boozy drinks below that we think deliver.

The Best Gin Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Pentire Seaward Spirit

This coastal gem takes influence from the botanicals found growing around it in North Cornwall. Expect a refreshing selection of sea rosemary, sea buckthorn, wild seaweed, and a characterful maritime feel, as well as zesty grapefruit and floral woodruff – it’s really so unique. It has a great reputation for winning round first-time sippers, and in the world of No-Lo gin, that’s high praise.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £19.95 (usually £22.95!)

The Best Pink Gin Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Warners Distillery Pink Berry Spirit

This is an exquisite effort that captures the botanical beauty of a top gin. The floral nose is indistinguishable from a pink gin, and as the medley of succulent strawberries, raspberries, and vibrant, tangy citrus blossoms, it’s heaven. The juniper comes to the fore, and there’s so much balance with herbal and warm spicy notes too. The complete package.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £17.89

The Best Rum Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Lyre's Non-Alcoholic Dark Cane Spirit

We’ve featured bottles from the Lyre’s range before, because they’re such a reliable and expansive provider of No-Lo deliciousness. Inside the charming bottle is a full-flavoured spirit that delivers on its molasses promise right away. Caramel, vanilla, maple, fig, and toasted nuts are in tow. It’s indulgent, and mixed with cola, ginger ale, or other rum favourites, it will not disappoint.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £20.95 (usually £23.49)

The Best Tequila Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

CleanCo Clean T

CleanCo have produced this stylish bottle that you can now find in some supermarkets. It’s their take on a blanco tequila, with a vegetal agave hint coming through nicely. Herbs like mint and basil gently intertwine with lime and lemon, the latter of which is particularly tasty on the finish when joined by some warm pepper. It goes down so well with pretty much anyone that tries it, so find out for yourself!

Size: 700ml
ABV: Less than 0.5%
Find here: £16

The Best Irish Cream Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Twisst Irish Caramel Cream

The aim of this one is to unashamedly replicate Bailey’s, and if you ask us, they succeed. It’s ready to go in the can, greeting you with rich cream aroma after cracking open. It’s velvety smooth, with chocolate and vanilla coating the mouth and an opulence to every sip. It’s sweet, sure, but it’s surprisingly refreshing, particularly when served chilled. Many people’s go to Irish Cream replacement!

Size: 235ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £17.40 (8 x 235ml)

The Best Spritz Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Salcombe New London Light Aegean Sky Spirit

This is a super refreshing aperitif carrying a lovely bit of sun from the Mediterranean. Citrus notes burst through, with inviting layers of bitter blood orange and aromatic bergamot enveloping herbaceous rosemary and savoury olives. The balance is deliciously harmonious and the result is a stand-out spirit… and one that also donates some sales to the Marine Conservation Society!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £23.99

The Best Whisky Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Three Spirit The Nightcap

If you’re after something with the soothing warmth of whisky, then this is it. Botanicals like turmeric, ginger, vanilla, and lemon balm are all distinct yet mellow in an expression feels self-assured. It’s decidedly complex too, sweetened with a little maple syrup and holding onto the natural herbaceous Ness that’s there. With valerian, hops and ashwagandha, it really comes into it’s own before bed (hence the name) rather than as a day time whisky replacement.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £22.49

If it’s wine you’re after, then we’ve got an entire article dedicated to Alcohol-Free Wines here!

Umeshu: Your ABC Guide to Japan’s ‘other’ drinks jewel

When we think of alcoholic, Japanese drinks, sake often takes centre stage but there's another, less obvious drinky gem that deserves the spotlight: Umeshu. This sweet elixir, made from plump ume fruit, sugar and alcohol, has been a beloved part of Japanese culture for centuries. Here’s a simple, beginner’s guide to this traditional, Eastern tipple with some styles you should try from the iconic Japanese Umeshu producer, Choya.

What is ume fruit?

Ume is often translated as a Japanese plum or Japanese apricot. It's actually neither but it is very closely related to both. Ume fruit is typically small, round and green when unripe, turning yellow or reddish as it ripens. It has a unique flavour that combines tartness, sweetness and a slight floral aroma, making it a distinctive and much-loved ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

Umeshu, also known as plum wine, is the name of the alcoholic drink made with ume; a tradition that dates back to the Nara period (710-794 AD), when ume trees were first introduced to the country.

How is Umeshu made?

The basic process of making Umeshu is relatively simple, but it does require patience: Ume fruit is steeped in alcohol and sugar before being aged. Over time, the flavours meld and mature, creating a sweet, fruity and slightly tart alcoholic drink.

The Ume fruit is pricked, then layered with sugar in a large glass jar or bottle before alcohol is poured in, covering the ume fruit completely. The alcohol (often shochu but sake and brandy can be used) extracts flavours from the fruit but also acts as a preservative. The container is then sealed tightly to ensure no exposure to air, before being left to age for several months to a year or more, depending on the desired flavour profile and complexity. When the Umeshu has reached the desired flavour and colour, it is strained to remove the fruit solids. The liquid is then bottled and stored for further ageing or immediate consumption.

About Choya

Nestled in the heart of Japan's Osaka Prefecture and established in 1914, Choya has emerged as a revered and global leader in the world of Umeshu plum liqueurs. Their extensive range caters to a spectrum of palates, from the classic to the innovative and their dedication to sustainability, along with their emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail, have earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of Japan's finest Umeshu producers.

Styles of Choya Umeshu to try

Umeshu is far from a one-size-fits-all drink. There are various styles and flavours to explore, each with a unique character, Sip these straight, over ice or in simple cocktails. It’s a whole new drinks world to explore!

Classic Umeshu

Try: Choya Single Year Umeshu, £19.99 from Drinksupermarket.com

A traditional style of Umeshu made from a blend of three batches and aged for up to two years. Sweet, very tart but beautifully balanced with natural plum essence. Great alone or to add zing to cocktails.

Honey Umeshu

Try: The Choya Royal Honey Umeshu, £34.99 from Master of Malt

For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, honey Umeshu is a delightful choice. It combines the natural sweetness of honey with the fruity notes of ume, resulting in a balanced and luscious flavour.

Shiso Umeshu

Try: The Choya Extra Shiso, £27.99 from Amazon

Shiso leaves, also known as perilla leaves, add an earthy, herby and slightly spicy kick to Umeshu, which complements the sweet and tangy ume fruit beautifully.

Extra Years Umeshu

The Choya Extra Years Umeshu, £26.99 from  Drinksupermarket.com

Complex and sweet, this Umeshu is matured for longer than usual, giving it complex aromas and flavours of plum, dried apricot and gentle spice.

Simple Umeshu Cocktails

Umeshu makes a fantastic base for highballs and more complex cocktails. Try an Umehsu spritz with a splash of soda water or replace the whisky with the Choya honey Umeshu for a delicious hot toddy with cinnamon and lemon juice. It could even make a great old fashioned or Martini. Here’s a tried and tested recipe:

The Choya Martini

Ingredients

15ml Choya Extra Years Umeshu
45ml London Dry Gin
30ml Lillet Rose or Blanc
1 dash bitters
1 dash absinthe

Method

Chill a martini glass or coup. Combine all the wet ingredients into a mixing glass over ice and stir for thirty seconds. Strain and pour into the Martini glass then serve. Garnish with a cherry.

Kanpai!

The Best Last Minute Boozy Gifts for All Drinks Lovers

It is the last week before Christmas, and if you’re anything like me, there are still presents to buy and bottles to bring to parties. There are plenty of new releases of spirits before Christmas and I’ve had a chance to try a few which are becoming new favourites. I have a few old favourites too. Below is a list of great spirits to suit all pockets should you need to buy something late before Christmas or are thinking of taking something different to a New Year party. Always make sure of the delivery times when it is this close to Christmas and look out for these if you’re in your favourite specialist retailer. I’m giving ideas from brandy to tequila, so I hope you find something you think you or a loved one might like.

Whisky

Dalmore 2005 and 2008 2023 Editions

The vintage releases from Dalmore are always very sought after. With Dalmore’s expert use of multiple types of sherry casks, their whiskies are known for complexity and depth of flavour and these two expressions are no different. They have slightly different profiles with the 2005 having a little more punch and the 2008 being more luxuriant, they are both worth seeking out and any whisky love would be more than pleased have either of them.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 49.3% & 45.8%
Find them here: £375 & £155

Busker Single Pot Still

Busker is new to the UK market and it’s about time this delicious whiskey has come to our shores. Beyond their Triple Cask range, the Royal Oak distillery as their Single Collection and my favourite is this Single Pot Still whiskey. Quintessentially Irish, this is made with both malted and unmalted barley which is unlike single malt whisky and gives the whisky a unique flavour profile of fruits and spices. It’s a great all-rounder with a difference.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44.3%
Find them here: £29.95

Meikle Tòir The Sherry One

The Meikle Tòir whiskies have been created by Billy Walker at Glenallachie distillery. He set out to make the perfect peated whisky from Speyside, and in doing so has created four of them, The Original, The Sherry one, The Chinquapin One and The Turbo. No guessing what The Turbo is all about! The others have a ppm count of 35, and the Turbo is 71 ppm. My favourite was The Sherry One, with all its fruitcake and spice with an oily peaty smoke running though the core of the dram.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Find them here: £52

Table Whisky 

I love this idea of crossing the wine world with the whisky world. Table whisky is a single grain whisky, traditionally a poorer cousin to single malt, but in this case that’s certainly not true. Distilled in Edinburgh, matured in virgin oak and sherry casks it tastes of popcorn, toffee and raspberry jam and I loved it! And at £35 it is certainly an affordable whisky.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £35

The Long & Short of it WS:02

This great new blend hails from the new Boarders distillery. They mix fermentation times which are both long and short to give a complex flavour profile whilst remaining well balanced and fruity. It’s matured in first fill ex bourbon barrels giving plenty of sweetness and is so well integrated with the grain whisky. I’m a fan of blends and this one is yummy. And right now they are giving away glasses with every bottle.

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

Turntable Paradise Funk

Turntable are a new blending house in Scotland that have now produced a core range. There are six whiskies which are both peated and un-peated. My favourite was Paradise Funk which has flavours of caramelised pineapple, toffee and lots of vanilla. What I also really like about these whiskies is that they give the precise breakdown of the blend. This one is: - 30% unnamed Speyside whisky aged in a virgin oak barrel. - 20% Benrinnes matured in a Chinkapin oak barrel.- 18% Invergordon single grain aged in a Cognac cask.- 13% Knockdhu matured in a virgin oak barrel.- 11% North British single grain matured in a virgin oak barrel.- 8% Blair Athol aged in a first-fill bourbon cask. This openness gives a new way to discover flavour.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find them here: £52.95

Glendronach 12 Year Old

This is an absolute classic sherry styled 12 year old whisky. Full of fruitcake flavours and spice with sweetness and a plentiful mix of dried and fresh orchard fruits. There are a few contenders for a classic sherry style whisky, and most of them are 15 years old and more expensive. This is great value for what you get. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £45.50

Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old

This year saw the long-awaited new core range from Glenglassaugh, and I was blown away by the 12 year old. Of the three whiskies released, two were non age statement whiskies and were very good, this one was the least expensive and I though the most accomplished. The packaging is well thought out with lighter glass for sustainability and is stunning. The whisky has great depth of flavour, beyond its 12 years and there are also vibrant fruity notes too. For value versus flavour this is my whisky of the year. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 45%
Find them here: £49.95

Kavalan Vinho Barrique

This is a whisky which covers the exotic side of things. Hailing from Taiwan, it has a maturation which firstly doesn’t have to be as long as in Scotland as the climate in Taiwan is sub-tropical, but that climate also turbo charges the whisky with flavour. This Vinho Barrique matured expression has so much red fruit and spice it has become unctuous and decadent. With flavours of dark chocolate, plumbs, kiwi, orange, raspberries and red apples this is, like so many whiskies from Kavalan an expressive, exciting whisky. All this complexity and development, and the fact it’s a single cask at cask strength, completely justifies spending more on that special person for Christmas.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 56.3%
Find them here: £198

Yellow Rose Outlaw

Moving over to the other side of the world, I was excited to try some American whiskies from Texas. Made from Texan yellow corn, this is rich and sweet and having been matured in smaller than normal barrels in Houston, the flavours are intense and rich. If you wanted to take a huge step up from drinking bourbons which are readily available in our supermarkets, then this would be a great place to start.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find them here: £63.70

Gin

Melifera Gin

This is an organically produced Gin from France with many different hand-picked botanicals and preserves the biodiversity of the area and supporting the Black Bee Conservatory in Oléron. It is a very herbal gin with floral aromas and flavours mixing in well too. If you like a dry gin without much sweetness, this is certainly going to be up your street.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find them here: £39.75

Nordés Gin

Occationally I come across a gin which manages to hit all the bases. A great cocktail base, a good gin for a martini, and fabulous in a gin and tonic. Nordes does exactly that. It comes from Galicia in northwest Spain and is made from Albariño-grape-based spirit. It has great balance of floral, herbal, juniper and also has just the right amount of sweetness in its fruit profile to make this one of best contemporary gins I have tasted in a long while. And you can find it in 3 Litre bottles! Bravo Nordes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £31.99

Micil Irish Poitín

This is something a little different from Ireland. Made in Galway from grain, it is flavoured with bogbean which gives a spicy kick, and some softer floral notes. It’s super over ice and makes great cocktails. If you’d like to try something a little different, or don’t need yet another bottle of gin on your drinks table, then this is definitely worth trying.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find them here: £33.94

Vodka

Nine Tines

Nine Tines is an English vodka made in Yorkshire. The potatoes it’s made from come from their own farm and from within nine miles of where it is made and bottled. 20 varieties of potato give a rich viscous vodka which has nice sweetness and balance. A great addition to the world of vodka.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £39

Dima’s Vodka

Here at The Three Drinkers, we are a huge fan of Dima’s Vodka. If you buy vodka, then this is the one we would advocate every time. Apart from being delicious, viscous, and versatile, it is made in the Ukraine and owned by Ukrainian Dima. From every bottle bought, Dima donates £5 to the plight of Ukraine. What more reason do you need to buy a bottle!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £35

Brandy

Bardinet Inspirations

A new brandy from Bardinet! This is made with mixing in mind, and it is a great brandy for mixing. There is plenty of flavour to stand up to all sorts of mixers and other spirits. Drink it long with ginger ale or lemonade, in a Sidecar or Brandy Alexander. This brandy handles them all, it’s amazing value and can easily be found in most supermarkets. Perfect for Christmas, and adding a little to mulled wine.

 Size: 700ml
ABV: 36%
Find them here: £17

Frapin Chateau de Fontpinot XO

For something more upmarket, I would always trust in Frapin. The Cognac they produce is refined and delicate in flavour. There are signature floral and orange aromas and flavours which will please anyone who is a Cognac lover. The Chateau de Fontpinot XO is my favourite, but their VSOP at under half the price is also excellent. This is a Cognac for beginners and connoisseurs alike.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find them here: £135

Tequila

For my last suggestions, I wanted to come to the world of aged Tequila. In our youth, I am sure we all remember salt on our hands and lemon segments in our teeth, but as we move on we sought out Tequila which was smooth, flavoursome and deserving of our cocktails. From there, is the world of sipping Tequila which has been aged in barrels and has extra flavour and sweetness. These Tequilas may not be the cheapest in the world, but they are definitely worth seeking out if you haven’t tried one before.

Volcan De Mi Tierra XA 

If a whole bottle is a little too much to stomach on your budget at the moment, then this will be found in nightclubs and bars. The elegant bottle has a little party trick. The base which is shaped like a volcano lights up and will certainly be noticed. I’d try it neat before mixing it to experience the full flavour. After that, mix away or put it over ice and enjoy.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £196

Enemigo 00 Zero Zero

Aged for three years in oak, this looks like a rum or whisky in the glass. It is fruity with lots of agave flavour, but also sweet and incredibly well balanced. Superb over ice, it is a great entry into the super-premium world of oak aged Tequila. Flavours of Vanilla, charred oak, green apple and nuttiness mix with plentiful vanilla and honey.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £137.70

Mijenta Anejo

This tequila is aged for eighteen months in oak and is created in small batches., The wood used for aging is French oak, French acacia and cherry wood which gives a great deal of complexity to the tequila with fruits, spices and sweet notes of butterscotch and butter mixing with tobacco and nuts. A great all-round aged tequila which if you’ve not tried, but have tried aged Tequila before, I would seek out.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find them here: £152

And there we have it. My suggestions for a very merry Christmas and new year. It’s great time of year to experiment and try something you’ve not had before. I always find the best times to do that, are times I’m with others, and this is a time of year where we get together and share. I always feel drinks are to be shared.

For more last minute gift guides, check out these distillery and winery tours!