5 Tasty Herbal Substitutes To Use During the Chartreuse Shortage

There's chatter all over the beverage world about a Chartreuse shortage. Chartreuse is a potent liqueur available in two iterations - Green, a strong and powerful version, and Yellow, a sweeter and lighter version - made of a secret concoction of herbs, spices, honey, and bittering elements still meticulously hand measured and produced in a Carthusian monastery in the mountains of south-eastern France.

Due to a global interest in more complicated cocktails, a rise in the popularity of herbaceous flavours, and the increased demand for many specific modern classic recipes, demand for Chartreuse has increased in recent years. But, because of its small-scale production - ironically, one of its most exciting selling points - demand has recently been exceeding supply. This has made it difficult for many bars and cocktail enthusiasts to order or stock the popular liqueur. Many sites suggest general, herbal and floral alternatives but the uniqueness of Chartreuse comes from the alpine flavours highlighted with bittersweet backing. This list will get you closer than any other list because it focuses on the herbaceous, alpine nature of the popular spirit and will get you closer to the flavours of the original for use in beloved classics or brand new mixtures. Below is just a selection of where to start when trying to find Chartreuse substitutes. 

Metté Liqueur de Bourgeons de Sapin (Tree Buds) 

Alpine flavours are rare in the UK. Though these sap and tree liqueurs are extremely popular in southern Europe, that flavour profile hasn't yet made it to the British Isles in staggering quantities. Whether it's blamed on the smaller amount of mountainous regions, unexplored flavour diversity, or simply an undereducated consumer base, there just aren't as many options for UK residents as there are in other countries around the world. Luckily, this liqueur is doing its best to offer an entry gateway into alpine flavours. It is sweet, it is greenish in the bottle, and it has beautiful notes of forest fauna and The powerful and unique Alpine flavour that makes it work in place of Chartreuse in cocktails.

Size: 350ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £19.04

Distillerie de Grandmont Le Chemin Des Moines Liqueur

This liqueur wins the nomination for balance when it comes to replacing Chartreuse and cocktails. It won't be the most Alpine, but it also won't be the most floral. It won't be as strong as Chartreuse, but it won't be so light that it would need some support from a stronger spirit. It is strong enough to offer some backbone to the cocktail just like Chartreuse does, and also has quite a bit of honey character. It is floral, but has a bright grassy flavour that hints toward the mountainous blend used by the monks. The bitterness cuts through the sweetness more so, making it a bit less pleasant as a neat serve or on the rocks. But that's not usually how Chartreuse is enjoyed either. It brings a light root spice character which will complement any savoury elements to any modern or classic cocktail.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 55%
Find here: £44.45

Cappelletti Amaro Alta Verde

This pale green color amaro is a perfect substitute for when Chartreuse isn't available, and confusingly not mentioned on any other list of substitutes or alternatives. It's hard to imagine why this might be for many global publications. For The Three Drinkers, it is recommended with one unfortunate caveat. The liqueur is usually available all throughout the US through a magnificent importer, but seemingly only available in Europe where it is produced in Italy.  That being said, it is only a widely accessible option for some readers. Though it is so delicious, it might be worth planning an Italian holiday. The light natural colour breaks the mould for amari in the marketplace, while also making it a perfect alternative to Chartreuse in flavour and presentation of the cocktail colour. The bitterness comes from a wormwood varietal which balances out sweet and citrus flavours. It has heaps of Alpine, it is versatile and adaptive depending upon the cocktail recipe or ingredients it is paired alongside.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 24%
Find here: $29.99

Amaro Pasubio 

Another gem from the house of Cappelletti, Pasubio is a mountainous blend of fruit and herbaceous while being a controversial addition to this list only on the colour consideration of Chartreuse substitutes. Pasubio is a maceration of many plants and roots mixed with mountain blueberries. The colour, therefore, is a dark brownish purple. While this can be gorgeous and magnificent in many things, many cocktails calling for Chartreuse are banking on the bold green and yellow colours to enhance the drinker's experience. In this case, the visual experience will be slightly muddied. Another unique consideration for adding this spirit as an alternative is the strength period rolling in at 17%, it is not going to bring the spirituous nature that Chartreuse drinkers are looking for. In this case, then, it would be beneficial to fortify it with a stronger spirit as the base or simply more of the bass spirit to provide the balance of strength. Though not the easiest replacement, bold intense alpine flavours and the unique addition of the forest fruits will offer immediate solace to anyone enjoying the cocktail.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: $24

Génépi des Pères Chartreux

Finally, if finding Chartreuse is proving impossible, but you want something with a similar herb blend, this is the spirit for you. It's made by the same monks in the same monastery, so it will have a very similar blend of herbs and botanicals. Though genepy liqueurs are generally softer and very much more floral, this one gets as close to the herb structure as any on the market. In order for the herbs to come through in the same way, A larger amount must be used. For longer cocktails, or bigger glasses, this could bring some of the herbs you're wanting from the mountainous region.

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

The earthy, natural, vegetal, and bittersweet flavours of Chartreuse may not always be readily available to order directly from the source. Luckily, there are lots of options that can be combined to get an alpine touch or the green boozy boost that many exciting modern cocktails require. This list is by no means comprehensive, but definitely a strong start and a guide to many new fascinating flavours.

By Zach Sapato

7 Amazing Paloma Variations

Some time after 1940, the Paloma was born. Quite how, on the other hand, is a mystery. Squirt (the first grapefruit soda) was launched in 1938 so some say they were involved. The owner of the oldest bar in Jalisco also laid claim to it. On top of all that, Paloma is an old Mexican folk song – so we’ll probably never get to the truth. All that matters is it’s here with us now.

An effervescent, tart, and refreshing mix of tequila, grapefruit, soda, and lime, it’s a contemporary classic and one of the most popular drinks in Mexico. In its simplest form, the foundations of spirit, soda and citrus are too good not to riff on, so we’ve done just that. First though, this is how to nail the original Paloma.

The Best Paloma Variation for Purists

Classic Paloma

There are a few different ways to make the original, but we think using both grapefruit juice and soda gives the right balance of intensity and lightness to the mix. The colour is so gorgeous and inviting, and that first sip is one of the most refreshing in all of mixology. Sweet, sour, tart and so summery.

Ingredients
60ml blanco tequila
25ml grapefruit juice
15ml lime juice
7.5ml agave syrup
50ml pink grapefruit soda
wheel of grapefruit or lime wedge for garnish

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

The Best Paloma Variation for Whisky Lovers

Scotch Paloma

Paloma is the epitome of summer and Scotch is more of a fireside sipper, but swapping tequila out for Scotch can bring that same delicious, caramel richness if you usually opt for reposado or añejo tequila. The crisp grapefruit brings out the fruits of a good scotch and compliments the creamy sweetness really nicely.

Ingredients
40ml Scotch whisky
40ml grapefruit juice
25ml spicy honey (regular is fine)
Soda
Grapefruit slice, for garnish

Method
Add all ingredients but club soda to an ice-filled glass and stir. Once chilled, top with soda water and garnish with a grapefruit slice. With the honey, you may find it easier to add some hot water and make a honey syrup before allowing it to cool slightly and adding into the mix. Enjoy!

The Best Paloma Variation for Mezcal Lovers

Vida Paloma

This riff on the original comes from Fat Baby Tacos in Chicago, and is great if you love the original but just want a subtle switch up. Mezcal instead of tequila brings an earthier, smokier flavour and the spiced rim brings some heat – keep the rest pretty much the same!

Ingredients
60ml mezcal
25ml grapefruit juice
15ml lime juice
7.5ml agave syrup
50ml pink grapefruit soda
Chilli flakes for rim
Wheel of grapefruit or lime wedge for garnish

Method
Use a touch of lime juice to wet the rim and roll it in chilli flakes. Then, use the mezcal as you would the tequila, shaking everything but soda with ice before straining over fresh ice and topping up with soda. You could garnish with grapefruit, like, jalapeno or coriander!

The Best Paloma Variation for Herb Lovers

Rosemary Paloma

Rosemary and grapefruit are a classic cocktail pairing. But just a faint whiff of rosemary as a garnish isn’t enough, you want rosemary syrup too. It’s so easy to make – you simply make a simple syrup (1:1 water and sugar) and include fresh rosemary whilst it’s simmering, before straining out. Fragrant, citrus with that herby undertone that plays into vegetal tequila deliciously. Heaven.

 Ingredients
55ml blanco tequila
20ml grapefruit juice
15ml lime juice
10ml rosemary syrup
50ml pink grapefruit soda
wheel of grapefruit or lime wedge for garnish

Method
Shake everything except the soda with ice to make sure it’s thoroughly mixed. Strain into a Collins glass that’s filled with ice and pour over your grapefruit soda to finish. Delicately poise the rosemary sprig and voila.

The Best Paloma Variation for Rosé Lovers

Lone Ranger

Tequila and sparkling wine – hear us out. The Lone Ranger is the invention of Jeffrey Morgenthaler in the US, designed to be an accessible, light, and refreshing brunch drink. Slightly less boozy with pink hues to put a smile on your face, it’s essentially a remoulded French 75 formula with fresh lemon threading tequila and red berries majestically.

Ingredients
40ml tequila
25ml lemon juice
15ml syrup
Top up with Rosé
Lemon for garnish

Method
Shake everything really well with ice (except the fizzy Rosé of course). You can either then add the Rosé and strain into a glass with fresh ice or top up with Rosé at the end – it’s up to you. Delish.

The Best Paloma Variation for Rum Lovers

Rum Paloma

Rum is crying out for this. A tropical favourite, a white rum can be swapped in for a blanco tequila, and darker caramel rum can substitute for aged tequila – easy. We think a white Jamaican rum like Wray & Nephew’s Overproof is perfect, bringing plenty of natural sweetness so you can probably ditch the syrup!

 Ingredients
45ml rum
25ml lime juice
Top up with grapefruit soda
A dash of syrup (optional)

Method
Shake your fresh lime with your measure of rum and plenty of ice. Strain and pour grapefruit soda to the top. Super light and super tasty.

The Best Paloma Variation for Vodka Lovers

Palomita

Paloma means ‘dove’ so Palomita means… ‘little dove’ – isn’t Spanish simple? Cocktail masters April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman swapped the tequila out and added the rum here, leaving a more neutral, cleaner cocktail that lets the citrus shine. They go the extra mile with vanilla-flecked salt too, which works brilliantly to soften the alcohol and grapefruit.

 Ingredients
60ml vodka
20ml lime juice
Grapefruit soda to top up
Vanilla-flecked salt rim

Method
For the vanilla-flecked salt rim, you can either buy it or make your own. To do the latter, mix a bean pod with salt or just infuse the pod with salt for a few days. Other than that, it’s the classic Paloma shake with ice and a pour of grapefruit soda to finish.

All you need now is a tequila right!? Take a look at these budget beauties.

Whisky vs Whiskey - A Brief History and Overview

Whisky is a spirit with a large historical and cultural significance, with many people having flown its flag to make it the globally known spirit it is today. Its history and origin, however, are muddied and up for debate (the whisky itself probably did not help either). Both the Scots and the Irish claim to be the inventors of it, but there is insufficient evidence to favour either party in the debate.

Whisky/Whiskey comes from the old Gaelic ‘uisge beatha’, or ‘usquebaugh’, meaning ‘water of life’, similar to the Scandinavian ‘aquavitae’. While there is some evidence suggesting the technique of distillation was brought over to the British Isles by Christian missionary monks, it is insufficient to disprove that Scottish or Irish farmers did not discover the technique of distillation themselves. However, the oldest evidence of distillation we have can be traced back to as far as 2000 B.C. in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and Syria) as a way to produce perfumes and aromatisers. Hence, it is more than likely the former is the case, and lacking the climate for vineyards, opted to ferment grain, leading to the first versions of what we now know as whisky.

While we are unsure who made this wonderful liquid first, there are key differences between Scotch and Irish whiskies, from their raw materials to distillation and maturation.

Irish v Scottish

Peated Scotch Whiskey - Caol Ila 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £55

Unpeated Scotch Whiskey - Balvenie Double Wood 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £43.95

Irish Whiskey - Redbreast 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £49.95

Blends

The Scots and Irish also produce many blended whiskies, a mix of multiple liquids, from multiple distilleries (malt, grain, and rye whiskies all included!) within the same geographical region. These liquids are masterfully selected by a master blender and proportioned expertly to produce a whisky that is greater than the sum of its parts.

A few years ago, I had the privilege of having Emma Walker, master blender of her namesake Johnnie Walker, perch up at the bar of the prep room while I was working a prep shift. This allowed me unfiltered access to one of the greatest minds in the modern whisky world and she (to my benefit) oversimplified what she does for work and explained it as:

“Not too dissimilar to making a cocktail. The same way you would balance a cocktail behind a bar using spirits, liqueurs, juices, and syrups. In the blending room we take the same approach, the only difference is we are tasked with balancing whisky with, well, more whisky.”

Blended Scotch Whiskey - Johnnie Walker Black Label

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.99

Blended Irish Whiskey -Tullamore D.E.W.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.64

The United States

As British colonisers started to land and settle in the Americas, specifically Kentucky, they realised the climate in the Southeast area of the United States was not conducive to the cultivation of barley. To work around this, they started distilling whiskey from corn, which later became known as the bourbon we know and love today.

Bourbon must be made in the United States using at least 51% corn in the mash bill. To be considered bourbon, it must also be distilled to no more than 80% ABV, bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV, and aged in charred virgin oak barrels with no minimum maturation period. However, to be considered “straight bourbon”, it must be aged for a minimum of two years.

Rye Whiskey has very similar production process specifications to Bourbon, with the same requirement of at least 51% Rye in the mash bill to be considered as such. The key difference in flavours, comes from the raw materials used in the production process. Bourbon tends to be more full-bodied and sweeter, while Ryes are generally drier, spicier, and have an underlying bready note.

There is also Tennessee whiskey, which is akin to bourbon in many of its processes, to the point where most Tenessee whiskies meet the requirements for bourbon. The key difference is that all Tennessee whiskies must be filtered using the Lincoln County Process which entails filtering (or steeping) the new-make spirit in charcoal chips before aging. However, many producers do not label themselves as such and prefer to label their products as Tennessee Whiskey.

Rye Whiskey - Rittenhouse Straight Rye

Size: 700ml
ABV: 50%
Find here: £39.99

Bourbon Whiskey - Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.68

Tennessee Whiskey - Daddy Rack Straight Tennessee Whiskey

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £39.99

Canada

Canadian whisky later joined the party as American and European immigrants used their experience in distilling wheat and rye to preserve surplus grain in attempts to prevent spoilage. This was done in improvised stills and resulted in inconsistent, and uncontrolled new-make spirits, drank unaged by the local market. Commercial whisky production in Canada started when John Molson purchased a copper pot still initially used to distill rum.

Canadian whisky has the most relaxed controls in the world of whisky as the regulations lack any strict stipulations in terms of mash bill content and additives. As per Canada’s Food and Drugs Act, to be called Canadian whisky the liquid must "be mashed, distilled and aged in Canada", "be aged in small wood vessels for not less than three years", "contain not less than 40 percent alcohol by volume" and "may contain caramel and flavouring". However, distillers must not veer too far away from the original form as the liquid must "possess the aroma, taste and character generally attributed to Canadian whisky."

Canadian Whiskey - Lot 40 Rye Whisky

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £37.99

Japan

The advent of Japanese whisky can be attributed to two main characters, Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru. Torii was a pharmaceutical wholesaler by trade who made a profit by importing Western world liquor with his company “Akadama Port Wine”, named after the Portuguese fortified wine. Torii then set his sights on creating a Japanese whisky to rival that made in Scotland, Ireland, and the United States, and opened the distillery which would later be known as Yamazaki.

Torii hired Taketsuru, who had honed the art of making whisky in Scotland and used this knowledge to help establish the Yamazaki distillery as a successful one, before parting ways with the company in 1934 to start his own company Dainipponkaju, which would later become Nikka.

The influence these two people had on Japanese whisky resulted in it being the closest thing to Scotch whisky you can get outside Scotland. With very similar legal requirements to its Scottish counterpart, the key flavour differences come from the two countries' environmental differences.

Japanese Single Malt Whisky - Yamazaki 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £139.95

Japanese Blended Whisky - Toki Blended

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £31.89

New World Whiskies

As whisky is currently enjoying another moment in the spotlight, new kids on the block, from different corners of the globe, are looking to stamp their mark on the whisk(e)y industry. Notably, these include Taiwan, France, Germany, Australia, and China, but as of 2022, over 30 countries are producing new world whiskies.

French - Domaine des Hautes Glaces Epistémè

Size: 500ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £72.24

Chinese - Goalong 5 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £52.95

Ultimately, the choice of spelling it as whisky or whiskey boils down to traditional use and does not depict any discrepancies in raw materials, production process, or flavours. Scotland, Japan, and Canada all make whisky that tastes remarkably different from one another, within the United States of America alone there are three variations of whiskey with unique processes and flavour profiles.

By Fowwaz Ansari

The Whisky Event, London

Over the last decade the growth in the number of whisky festivals and events around the world has been incredible. No longer does one have to wait all year for one of the big festivals like the Whisky Show in London or Whisky Live in Paris. There are plenty all over Europe and here in the UK. From Birmingham to Newcastle, new festivals have been popping up all over the place and they are all very good in one way or another, each with their own unique offering. Some have a great venue, for example or others concentrate on independent bottlers and some on education. With all this choice it is difficult to choose.

There is a relatively new festival in London. With Whisky live and The Whisky Show I would have thought really isn’t need for another London whisky show, and this is where I would be wrong. The Whisky event is like no other whisky show I have been to. It is held over one evening in June and is possibly the most fun and entertaining whisky event held in a single session I know. It doesn’t take anything away from the other shows, but certainly adds to the whisky landscape in London.

Whisky festivals by nature are about the whisky. However, there is more to it than that.

At the Whisky Event, the numbers are more limited giving more space and time to talk to producers and brand ambassadors. The range of whiskies for a smaller festival are impressive with major brands taking part like Diageo, William Grant and Sons and Whyte and Mackay, but also independent bottlers, both established Scottish companies such as Douglas Laing and newer exciting ones like Fruitful Spirits and Spiritfilled. Unusual distilleries like Wire Works from England and Pōkeno from New Zealand.

One of the biggest differences between all other whisky shows and the whisky event is the food. Whisky and food intrinsically go together. Whisky is a social thing, so is food, and with great whisky it seems obvious that there should be great food to go with it and the company it attracts. At the Whisky event the food is fabulous, with an incredible sushi chef creating fresh sushi, there are roast meats, luxurious charcuterie, salads, seafood and superb desserts, if you’ve left enough room.

This year the event will be bigger than ever. With twice the number of exhibitors, whiskies and held in a luxurious space at the Grosvenor hotel, I think it’s a show that should be in anyone’s whisky calendar. Whether you are at the beginning of your whisky journey and want time to talk to people or want to expand your knowledge and experience some of the best masterclasses with rare whiskies and the world’s most knowledgeable educators and presenters, this is a great show. I have my ticket and I hope to see you there.

The Whisky Event is in London on the 2nd of June 2024
Find out more here.

Words by Colin Hampden-White

The Top Drinks For Your Eurovision Party 2024

It’s that time again. On Saturday 11th May, Malmö Arena will host the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 – home to the most flamboyant and often ridiculous performances of the year.

Broadcast across the world and watched by millions, it’s a massive event, and with so many different nations performing and so much to comment on, Eurovision parties remain wildly popular.

If you want to really commit to the theme, then a variety of globetrotting drinks is the way to go. We’ve taken a look at the current favourites to win and paired them up with a drink or cocktail from their nation. Let the show begin as we build up to the most likely winner…

UK: Dizzy by Olly Alexander

M&S Lark Song English Rosé

Okay, okay, so Olly Alexander isn’t quite in the Top 10 with the bookies, but he’s only just outside of it so we’re including him anyway! Most of you reading this will be from the UK so any of your favourite drinks produced here will suffice to celebrate, but if you want something special, then use this opportunity to try English Wine which is flourishing. British Sparkling Wine’s reputation is going from strength to strength. Balfour is a cracking winery, and their English Rosé is one half Pinot Noir, the other half Pinot Meunier, Regent and Chardonnay. It’s refreshingly dry, brimming with ripe redcurrants and carries a zesty sweetness with subtle tang. So elegant, and with a celebratory feel too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £14

Belgium: Before the Party’s Over by Mustii

Belgian Fruit Beer – Lindemans Kriek

We think that when Belgium comes around, you can’t look beyond Belgian Beer. There are so many to pick from, so go with a traditional Belgian brew that piques your interest. Duvel is their most famous, but we’re going to recommend something they specialise in – fruit beers, like Lindemans Kriek. It’s a low ABV (handy if you’re drinking for every country!) cherry beer, full of intense, tart and of course sweet fruity flavour.

Size: 250ml
ABV: 3.5%
Find here: £2.05

Norway: Ulveham by Gåte

Nuet Dry Aquavit

The national drink of Norway and very popular across wider Scandinavia, Aquavit is a flavoured liquor that’s been around since the 1400s. It’s very popular around Christmastime, and its name comes from the Latin for ‘water of life’. Usually, it’s distilled with potatoes and then mixed with a variety of herbs and spices – this Nuet Dry focuses on warming caraway, liquorice sweetness and refreshing citrus and blackberries. Skål!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £37.18

Ireland: Doomsday Blue by Bambie Thug

The Gaelic Flip

Sweden tied Ireland for most wins with 7 after their 2023 victory, so you can never rule Ireland out. There are so many drinks you could include to represent Ireland. A pint of Guinness of course, Irish Coffee (especially if they perform towards the end) or any number of Irish whiskies, but we’re going for a Gaelic Flip. The soft, rich fruits of Irish whiskey work so well in a flip and this cocktail is luxurious, soft, delicately spicy, and sweet. You could include Bailey’s too for even more indulgence.

Ingredients
50ml Irish whiskey
25ml sweet vermouth
15ml syrup
1tsp allspice liqueur
1 egg
Nutmeg (garnish)

Method
Dry shake all ingredients first to generate the lovely pillow of foam in the final serve. Add ice and repeat until everything is nicely chilled and mix. Strain into a cocktail glass and finish with some aromatic grated nutmeg. It’s a winner.

France: Mon Amour by Slimane

Kir Royale

Where to start with French drinks? So many options! Champagne may be a too expensive if you’re buying drinks for multiple countries. Pastis is their lesser-known national spirit but it’s aniseed again and quite niche. Wine is always an option but there’s so many to pick. We’ve gone for an iconic French cocktail – the Kir Royale. It’s a simple but sophisticated mix of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) and Champagne, but Crémant will do just fine!

Ingredients
1 tbsp crème de cassis
Champagne/Crémant
Blackberry or raspberry (optional garnish)

Method
Liqueur first with this cocktail, before topping up your Champagne flute to the top with your fizz. A blackberry or raspberry garnish is a must, and that’s it – a simple but delicious serve.

Netherlands: Europapa by Joost Klein

Jenever - Ketel 1 Graanjenever

Jenever is a really interesting spirit. It’s made from juniper, in fact it’s a literal translation, so it’s got similarities with gin regarding its botanicals and transparency. However, it’s also triple distilled and tastes somewhat malty, so overlaps with whisky too. Its roots go back to the 15th century, but it received its AOC in 2008 meaning it’s strictly regulated now. Ketel are now known for their vodka, but originally jenever was their game and this rich spiced fruits number is well worth picking up.

Size: 1L
ABV: 35%
Find here: £27.35

Ukraine: Teresa & Maria by alyona alyona & Jerry Heil

Dima’s Vodka

We think Ukraine’s performance is a good opportunity to try out some quality vodka. It’s a massive part of the country’s culture and we’re big fans of Dima’s. It’s made from a barley, wheat and rye blend and has a velvety smooth mouthfeel. A touch of vanilla and spice liven things up and this would be amazing in a Dirty Martini with the saltiness of the pickle.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35

Italy: La Noia by Angelina Mango

Negroni

The most popular Italian cocktail using their most loved aperitif Campari – the classic Negroni. It’s easy to remember as a 1:1:1 split of your favourite gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. There’s a lot of bitter complexity with many different botanicals, herbs, sweet and fruity notes. It’ll be a nice bitter break between many other drinks too.

Ingredients
25ml gin
25ml sweet vermouth
25ml Campari
Orange slice for garnish

Method
Add ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir for 20-30 seconds until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass. Add large ice cubes and garnish with a slice of orange.

Croatia: Rim Tom Tagi Dim by Baby Lasagna

Pelinkovac

Pelinkovac has been part of Croatia’s history for centuries, even making its way all the way over into the court of Napoleon III of France! Wormwood is the key ingredient here, best known for its use in absinthe, and it’s accompanied by a selection of aromatic herbs. It’s completely unique but if you imagine Jägermeister then it’s not a million miles away. You can make cocktails or highballs with it but try it chilled with lots of ice and a slice of lemon.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 28%
Find here: £24.29

Switzerland: The Code by Nemo

The Green Fairy

Absinthe is an often misunderstood spirit, so why not use Eurovision to get to know it? It’s a very boozy spirit that actually originated in Switzerland, hence the alpine feel of the anise, wormwood, fennel, and other herbs. It’s best enjoyed in a cocktail, and we think a Green Fairy suits a Eurovision Party; it’s a kind of absinthe sour with silky egg, bright lemon, and complex herbal notes. For other cocktails or absinthe recommendations, go here!

Ingredients
25ml Absinthe
25ml lemon juice
25ml chilled water
10ml Sugar syrup
1 dash angostura bitters
1 egg white (or 15ml aquafaba)
Lemon peel to garnish

Method
Add all the ingredients to a mixer and dry shake (no ice). Then, add ice and wet shake. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and enjoy! Garnish with lemon peel.

If you want more drinks to celebrate each Eurovision nation, then we’ve got a few others from last year here!

The Best Budget Tequila For Your Cocktails

If you’ve been cursed by a shot of nasty tequila like many of us have, you might think you need to really splash out to get something nice – but you really don’t. Sure, some high-end sipping tequilas can dent the wallet, but when it comes to cocktails, you need a robust tequila with great balance and smoothness… and there’s plenty of those under £30.

These seven stunning tequilas each provide something a little bit different to you cocktail experience, and we’ve paired them with an exquisite cocktail that they shine in. Let’s go agave diving!

El Tequileño Reposado

This Jalisco Reposado gives intense cooked agave notes, coated in a slightly bitter oak from three months of American oak casks. This maturation also delivers some lovely tobacco sweetness and subtle salted caramel. There are so many flavours going on without the use of additives that it’s impressive, especially at this price.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £22.95

The Mexican Mule

Ingredients
60ml/2oz El Tequileño Reposado
15ml/0.5oz fresh lime juice
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Top up with Ginger Beer

Method
Build over ice, preferably in a highball glass. Pour ginger beer to the top and finish with a lime wedge.

El Sueño Tequila Silver

This tequila is slightly different. We normally like to look for 100% agave, but this ‘mixto’ uses 70% agave with 30% locally-grown piloncillo, which is natural cane sugar. This isn’t a modern band trying to cut corners though, it’s backed up by five generations of tequila producers – and the purists that might swerve it are missing out. There’s plenty of vegetal agave, grapefruit tang and a nice underlying sweetness amazing for cocktails like this one.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £24.74

The Sueño Sunrise

Ingredients
50ml/1.75oz El Sueño Tequila Silver
200ml/6.75oz orange juice
15ml/0.5oz grenadine

Method
Shake the tequila and OJ with ice and pour. Gently add grenadine, pouring down the side so that it settles at the bottom. A maraschino cherry skewered is the perfect garnish.

Olmeca Reposado Tequila

This is an accessible Reposado leading with oaky agave. Candied orange brings a sweet citrus flavour and vanilla lingers too. It’s been highly praised at The Spirits Business awards and delivers an easy-to-love caramel flavour that’s dangerously moreish. Beautiful bottle too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: £24.39 (usually more!)

The Mango Margarita

Ingredients
45ml/1.5oz Reposado tequila
15ml/0.5oz triple sec
120ml/0.5 cup mango juice
Half a lime of juice
Salt for the rim

Method
Chill the Margarita glasses to frost them. Mix together everything in a shaker with ice. Then, using the condensation on the glass or lime juice, roll the rim in salt. Pour over fresh ice and garnish with a lime wedge. Salud!

Mundo Blanco Tequila

If you want to bring some serious complexity to your cocktails, then Mundo Blanco is perfect. Many drinkers use it as a sipping tequila because there are many earthy depths and fresh heights to familiarise yourself with. The agave nectar is a Highland/Lowland combo, so you get a really nicely rounded herbaceous and crisp profile. Top notch packaging too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: £27.75

The Paloma

Ingredients
50ml/1.75oz Mundo Blanco Tequila
25ml/0.8oz grapefruit juice
12.5ml/0.5oz lime juice
7.5ml/0.2oz agave syrup
50ml/1.75oz pink grapefruit soda
Wheel of grapefruit for garnish

Method
Shake everything except the soda with ice and strain into a tall glass. Pour your grapefruit soda in and finish with a gorgeous wheel of grapefruit.

Cazcabel Reposado

When it comes to tequila, Cazcabel definitely know their onions… or rather, their agave. They’re the best-selling brand in the UK and for good reason. Their Reposado has won big awards, aged in oak for 9 months to develop glorious earthy flavours coated in sweet cinnamon. Dried fruits dance with noticeably vegetal agave for bold flavour. Very fun to use in cocktails like the one below.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £27.90

Caballo

Ingredients
60ml/2oz Cazcabel Reposado
30ml/1oz pink grapefruit juice
10ml/0.3oz agave syrup
Wheel of grapefruit for garnish

Method
Simple – shake everything with ice and strain into chilled glass. Refreshing and delicious.

Rooster Rojo Reposado Tequila

The Mexican Rooster is here to wake you up. The blue agave are steam-cooked for 10 hours, before special yeast is added to the juices for 72 hours of fermentation before distillation. It’s rested in oak, before the water used is filtered through Mexican silver. It has lovely sweet flavour - think caramel and all spice.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £27.94

Tommy's Margarita

Ingredients
60ml/2oz Rooster Rojo Reposado Tequila
30ml/1oz fresh lime
15ml/0.5oz agave nectar

Method
Shake it with ice. Strain it into a chilled couple glass. Garnish with lime wedge. Simple and delicious.

Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver

We couldn’t leave out the worlds oldest, and arguably biggest tequila brand. Slick, smooth and sweet, the nose delivers strong agave, which carries over on the palate with green pepper and lime. The balance is spot on which makes it a go-to for cocktail lovers.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £29.99 (usually more!)

The Matador

Ingredients
30ml/1oz Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver
60ml/2oz pineapple juice
22ml/0.75oz lime juice

Method
Like most tequila drinks, this is a simple wet shake before a good strain. Tropical delight.

If you want to explore the absolute best this misunderstood spirit has to offer, then how about The Best Sipping Tequilas?

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

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

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

Adriatico 

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

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

Joseph Cartron Amaretto

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

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

Quaglia

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

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

Lazzaroni Amaretto 

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

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

Luxardo Amaretto Di Saschira

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

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

How to make your own amaretto liqueur 

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

• Changing the base spirit. 

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

• Adding lemon, lime or orange zest. 

• Increasing or decreasing the sugar content. 

Homemade Amaretto Liqueur: 

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

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

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

By Miley Kendrick

The Best Scotch and Pizza Pairings

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

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

Sweetness, which pairs well with sweetness in turn

Umami, which contrasts beautifully with fruity flavours

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

Salt, which likes light, fresh, and bitter flavours

Bitterness, which can be tempered by sweetness

Chilli, which enjoys a lower alcohol pairing

Fattiness, which can be cut through with bright acidity

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

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

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

HAWAIIAN PIZZA & Glen Moray Chardonnay Cask Finish

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

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

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

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

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

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

DIAVOLA PIZZA & CAOL ILA DISTILLERS EDITION

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

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

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

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

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

WHITE PIZZA & NC’NEAN HUNTRESS 2024 RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

PIZZA CALABRESE & ARRAN SAUTERNES CASK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PIZZA PARMA & AUCHENTOSHAN AMERICAN OAk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Fowwaz Ansari