Which Cocktails Use Campari?

Campari, with its vivid red hue and distinct bitter-sweet flavour, is a staple in the world of aperitifs and cocktails. Hailing from Italy, this iconic liqueur is crafted from an infusion of herbs, aromatic plants, and fruits, creating a complex taste that features notes of bitter orange, rhubarb, and a medley of spices. Known for its role in classic aperitivo culture, Campari has a knack for adding depth and character to any drink. Let’s explore eight classic and creative cocktails that showcase the versatility of the contemporary classic that is Campari.

Negroni

The Negroni is the ultimate Campari cocktail—a bold and sophisticated drink with a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes. A mix of Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth, it’s a classic aperitivo that’s both strong and smooth.  It all came about when Count Camillio Negroni ordered his Americano cocktail (which we’ll get to shortly), but fancied gin instead of soda. The gin adds a crisp juniper bite, the vermouth lends a mellow sweetness, and the Campari ties it all together with its signature bitterness. Served over ice with an orange twist, the Negroni is a simple drink for those who appreciate complex flavours.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
25ml Gin
25ml Sweet Vermouth
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with an orange twist. You’ve got yourself Campari’s most famous incarnation.

Sbagliato

Because the Negroni is such an iconic Campari vehicle, we have to include its trendy spin off – the Negroni Sbagliato, or simply "Sbagliato" (which means "mistaken" in Italian). It was born out of a happy accident when Prosecco was used instead of gin in a Negroni. The result is a lighter, sparkling version of the classic, with the Prosecco adding a delightful fizz and a hint of sweetness. It’s a bubbly, bittersweet cocktail that’s perfect for brunch or as an aperitif.

Ingredients:
30ml Campari
30ml Sweet Vermouth
30ml Prosecco

Method:
Combine Campari and sweet vermouth in a glass filled with ice, top with prosecco, and gently stir to maintain all those beautiful bubbles.

Americano

Where it all began, The Americano is a lighter, more refreshing alternative to the Negroni, making it an ideal choice for warm afternoons. Combining Campari, sweet vermouth, and a splash of soda water, this cocktail offers a delightful mix of bitterness and fizz. The soda lightens the drink, making it more approachable while still delivering that distinctive Campari kick. A slice of lemon or orange adds a citrusy zest to finish. Make sure you use quality Vermouth and soda.

Ingredients:
35ml Campari
35ml Sweet Vermouth
Soda water to top
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Pour Campari and vermouth over ice in a glass, top with soda, and garnish with an orange slice. Voila.

Boulevardier

For those who prefer the richness of whiskey, the Boulevardier is the perfect Campari cocktail. A close cousin of the Negroni, it swaps out gin for bourbon, creating a warm, robust drink with a touch of sweetness. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes blend beautifully with the bitter complexity of Campari and the rich sweetness of vermouth. It’s a sophisticated sipper that’s perfect for colder weather or an evening by the fire.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
35ml Bourbon
25ml Sweet Vermouth
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Pre-chill the glass. In a separate mixing glass, stir everything with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with an orange twist.

Campari Spritz

For one of the simplest ways to enjoy Campari, look to the Spritz. The Campari Spritz is a bubbly, vibrant cocktail that’s perfect for summer sipping. This Italian classic pairs the bitterness of Campari with the effervescence of Prosecco and a splash of soda water. The result is a light, refreshing drink with a perfect balance of bitter and sweet. The Prosecco’s fruitiness complements the Campari’s herbal notes, while the soda adds a crisp, clean finish. Garnished with an orange slice, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients:
60ml Campari
90ml Prosecco
Soda water to top

Method:
Pour Campari into a glass filled with ice, add Prosecco and a splash of soda, garnish with an orange slice. Sip quick before the fizz fades!

Jungle Bird

The Jungle Bird is a tropical delight that brings a touch of the Caribbean to Campari’s Italian roots… all whilst being invented in 1970s Malaysia. This tiki classic blends dark rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to create a cocktail that’s both fruity and complex. The pineapple’s sweetness balances the bitterness of the Campari, while the rum adds depth and richness. The lime juice provides a tart, refreshing finish, making this a perfect summer cocktail. It stands out as a more unusual Campari mix because of the fruity-zesty character.

Ingredients:
45ml dark rum
20ml Campari
15ml lime juice
15ml simple syrup
45ml pineapple juice
Pineapple leaf or slice (garnish)

Method:
Shake all ingredients with lots of ice, fine strain into a glass, and garnish with a pineapple wedge… or pineapple leaf… or cherry… or lime wedge – anything!

Garibaldi

Was almost lost to the history books, the Garibaldi is a simple yet delicious two-ingredient cocktail that’s all about showcasing the harmony between Campari and fresh orange juice. Named after the Italian revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi, this drink is as bold and vibrant as its namesake’s red shirts. The bracing bitterness of the Campari is perfectly balanced by the sweet, pulpy orange juice, creating a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail. It’s a great way to start your day (or night) with a burst of citrusy flavour.

Ingredients:
60ml Campari
Top up with fresh orange juice
Orange wedge (garnish)

Method:
Pour Campari over ice, top with freshly squeezed orange juice, and give it a light stir.

Old Pal

The Old Pal is a drier, more bracing take on the richer Boulevardier, swapping sweet vermouth for dry. This cocktail has a sharp, crisp character, with the rye whiskey adding a spicy warmth that’s tempered by the bitter edge of Campari and the dryness of the vermouth. It’s a drink with a bit of attitude, perfect for those who like their cocktails on the drier side. Some recipes call for a 2:1:1 ratio in favour of the whiskey, but we say start with the 1:1:1 and see how it goes – you’re a Campari lover after all.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
25ml Rye Whiskey
25ml Dry Vermouth
Lemon twist (garnish)

Method:
Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

These eight cocktails highlight the versatility and depth of flavour that Campari brings to the table. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and bitter, there’s a Campari cocktail out there for you. If you’re interested in more cocktails that show what a unique drink can do, check out our Absinthe guide!

Which Mixer Goes Best with Rum?

Rum, the versatile and ancient spirit born in the sun-soaked Caribbean, brings a world of flavours to your glass—from the rich, molasses-based dark rums to the crisp, clean notes of white rum. But the real magic happens when you find the perfect mixer to elevate this tropical treasure. Sipping a premium rum over ice is a treat, but most of us want to make our rum go further with a basic two-ingredient rum and mixer. There is plenty of variety in the world of rum, and some mixers will go better than others with each type. Adapting to the character of your chosen rum is best, but the mixes below are a great place to start. From zest to bitterness to tropical sweetness, each will take your rum serve in a different direction.

Ginger Beer – for a spicier serve

Ginger Beer is a classic mixer for rum, especially in the iconic Dark 'n' Stormy cocktail. To make the full thing you need a good hit of lime juice, dark rum and perhaps some bitters and syrup too. Nonetheless, in its simplest form, ginger beer and rum does the trick. The spicy, robust flavour of ginger beer pairs beautifully with the deep, rich notes of dark rum in particular. The warmth of the ginger highlights the rum's caramel and vanilla undertones, creating a drink that's both refreshing and comforting. Using white rum will create a lighter concoction that still goes down a dream. For an extra twist, we really do recommend the fresh lime to brighten up the flavours. For more Dark ‘N Stormy style variations, click here.

Cola – for a sweeter serve

Rum and cola is a timeless combination that has been a favourite for generations. The sweet, caramel notes of cola meld seamlessly with the vanilla and spice of aged rum. This pairing is particularly good with dark or spiced rum, creating a drink that's smooth and full of depth. Add a wedge of lime, and you’ve got yourself a classic Cuba Libre – one of the easiest cocktails to make. If your rum is already very sweet, then make sure to include plenty of citrus garnish and ice – or pick another mixer!

Coconut Water – for a refreshing serve

For a lighter, tropical twist, coconut water is an excellent choice. Its subtle sweetness and refreshing but delicate nature complements the smooth, slightly sweet profile of white rum. This combination brings out the natural tropical notes in rum, making it an ideal choice for a beachside sip. Coconut water also adds a hydrating and reinvigorating element, perfect for those long, lazy summer days. Caribbean classic and the inspiration behind Malibu.

Pineapple Juice – for a tropical serve

Pineapple juice is another tropical mixer that pairs wonderfully with rum, so much so that it’s the cornerstone of the Piña Colada. The fresh tang of the pineapple cuts through the sweetness of the rum, creating a balanced, vibrant drink that transports you away like no other. This combination works well with both white and golden rums, making it a versatile option for various rum-based cocktails. Pineapple juice also enhances the natural fruitiness of the rum, really making each sip feel like a tropical escape.

Tonic Water – for a lighter serve

Tonic water isn’t just for gin—it pairs surprisingly well with rum too. The bitterness of the tonic balances out the sweetness of the rum creating a more crisp and refreshing drink. The quinine in tonic water adds a subtle complexity, which combined with a lack of strong flavour in tonic, brings out the more nuanced flavours in the rum, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet, more sophisticated and lighter serve. If you’re not totally into tonic, try a ‘sonic’ instead (a 50:50 mix of sparkling water and tonic). A slice of lime is the perfect garnish.

Lemonade – for a zesty serve

Lemonade, with its zesty and sweet profile, is a great match for rum, especially white rum. The citrus notes of the lemonade enhance the rum’s natural flavours, creating a bright, refreshing drink that's perfect for hot summer days. This combination is simple yet satisfying, and you can easily elevate it by adding fresh mint and lemon or lime garnishes. It’s probably not the best pairing with darker rums, however.

Orange Juice – for a fruity serve

Orange juice might not be the first mixer that comes to mind for rum, but it works surprisingly well. The delicious tropical sweetness of quality orange juice is a delicious pairing, but it also brings a subtly tart acidity which cuts through the rum’s rich sweetness, creating a well-rounded drink that’s both refreshing and flavourful. This pairing is particularly good with golden rum, as the juice highlights the rum's fruity and spicy notes. Add a dash of grenadine for a sunset effect and a hint of sweetness.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of rum mixers – experiment! If it tastes good to you then that is all that matters. If you’re into Cognac too, then we’ve prepared a similar article on the best mixers for a fellow historic spirit here.

What is a Caipirinha?

Brazil’s’ national (and worldwide fave) cocktail, the Caipirinha, made using Brazil’s’ national spirit has become a mainstay in holiday destinations and cocktail bars everywhere. Every bit as refreshing as it is historic, the Caipirinha can be dated back as far as the early 20th century, and if you’ve ever tried one it’s easy to see why it’s not only stood the test of time, but continued to grow in popularity. 

The story goes, as is the case with many old cocktails, that the drink was originally conceived for medicinal purposes. Sugarcane farmers would meld Cachaça, lime and sugar to ward off the dreaded Spanish Flu. Of course, sugarcane farmers were hardly renowned mixologists, and yet this drink persists, from the old Brazilian countryside to the world’s high end cocktail bars. Fun fact, the name “Caipirinha” actually roughly translates to “little countryside drink”, which is beautifully apt. 

Let’s explore how to make the perfect Caipirinha, one that is both delicious and honours the rich history of the cocktail.

What are the traditional Ingredients for a Caipirinha?

The Caipirinha is composed of only three ingredients: 

Cachaça, fresh lime, and sugar. 

It’s served ice cold over crushed ice, perfect for summer!

Since the ingredient list is so small, this drink is defined by its history and preparation method. Powdered white sugar is the best all-rounder for the cocktail, as it dissolves well when muddled with fresh lime. Speaking of fresh lime, head to your local market and grab the most beautiful bright limes to give your cocktail the spark it deserves. When building your cocktail, make sure to muddle the lime and sugar together well enough to extract plenty of liquid and the lime oils, but also to dissolve the sugar, if you’re not using a syrup. 

As for the best Cachaça? Well, you’ll have to read on…

How do Bartenders Make a Caipirinha?

We asked three bartenders for their take on the classic Caipirinha cocktail. Here’s what they had to say….

Fowwaz Ansari - Bittersweet Leith 

Fowwaz points out that “a Caipirinha is simply an expression of a Daiquiri”, the endlessly classic, rum, lime and sugar. With a drink as simple as the Caipirinha, there is “nowhere to hide, your bartending technique will determine whether the drink is good.” Fowwaz combines modern technique with tradition, by including powdered sugar and sugar syrup, lime wedges and fresh squeezed lime to taste, and then shaking the cocktail in order to “get the drink so much colder than any amount of churning ever could.” 

Blake Acaster - The Maven

Blake points out that the key to the Caipirinhas' timeless nature lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. Despite its humble beginnings, the Caipirinha rivals even the most high end cocktails. While Blake believes heavily in the traditional method of Caipirinha making (and drinking), he also likes to add a splash of ginger cordial for a “fiery kick” in his own twist on the classic.

Ahsoka Wallace - LGBT+ Drinks Industry Representative

In Ahsoka’s own words, “I feel it's a classic cocktail that has a real sense of cultural belonging as well. A classic which can only be made perfectly with a nice balance of Cachaça, lime and sugar”, and Ahsoka’s all about the citrus. In fact, for their perfect twist on the classic, they swear by adding a splash of grapefruit cordial for that super tart citrus punch. You have to try it! 

The Best cachaça to Use in a Caipirinha

Cachaça is a Brazilian sugar cane spirit that dates back to the 1500s! Today, there are endless brands to pick from, and picking the perfect Cachaça is essential to crafting the perfect Caipirinha… 

Abelha Silver Cachaça

A firm favourite for bartenders and for the environment. Abelha’s farm is 100% sustainable and produces their GMO free, organic sugar cane which lends to the quality of this artisanal Cachaça. This Cachaça is rich with banana, apricot and honey notes and is the perfect choice for a light, summery Caipirinha. They even sell a kit with a beautiful branded muddler, making it the perfect choice for the beginner home bartender.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 39%
Where to Find: Master of Malt - £29.99

Yaguara Cachaça Still Strength

Do you like your Caipirinhas with a little more kick? Yaguara have got you covered with their still-strength Cachaça, coming in at a whopping 48% ABV and packed full of flavour to take your cocktail to the next level. Despite its relatively potent alcohol content, this Cachaça boasts notes of lemongrass, lime and a gentle hint of peppercorn. This small-batch offering isn’t one to miss!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Where to Find: Master of Malt - £32.84

Novo Fogo 3 Year Old

An aged cachaça that is not only beautiful in colour but small batch (or, “boutique” in their words) and unlike any other Cachaça you’re likely to get your hands on, The time this liquid spends in Amburuna then further in American oak gives this Cachaça a creamy, forest fruit and deep dark chocolate character. Mouth fulfilling texture and an aroma that just pops with butterscotch and caramel. Expect a complex, sweet and rich Caipirinha. 

Size: 500ml
ABV: 41.2%
Where to Find: Master of Malt - £41.95

Velho Berreiro 

Easily one of Brazil's top-selling traditional Cachaça, Velho Berreiro has a deep, powerful earthy character on the palate that absolutely shines when mixed into a classic Caipirinha. Refreshingly aromatic and the vegetal undertones make this the perfect crisp choice to be churned in your finest crushed ice. Velho Berreiro also hits the mark on price, an unrivalled budget option for traditional Cachaça.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 39%
Where to Find: Master of Malt - £20.09

How to Make the Perfect Caipirinha

So, now you’re armed with all the knowledge required to make the perfect Caipirinha! It’s a delightfully simple cocktail, and technique and nuance separate a good one from a great one. Here’s our perfect Caipirinha recipe: 

Ingredients:
50ml High quality Cachaça 
4 Fresh lime wedges (half a lime)
Teaspoon powdered white sugar

Method: 
In a rocks glass, add the lime wedges and a teaspoon of powdered sugar. Muddle the limes and sugar until perfectly homogenised and almost no sugar crystals remain. Now, add crushed ice, just below the rim of the glass, and add your Cachaça. Churn the ingredients until the outside of your glass has frosted, and top with a straw and more crushed ice. Serve, and enjoy! 

 By Miley Kendrick

The Best Pimm's Alternatives To Try This Summer

If the British summer ever gets into full swing, you know exactly how to finish the question, ‘anyone for a glass of ‘………….’. Pimm’s debuted in the early 1800s, crafted by James Pimm as a tonic to aid digestion at his oyster bar in East London. Indeed, the tankard it was served in was known as a No.1 Cup – hence the name.

The classic Pimm’s ‘No. 1 Cup’ is a gin liqueur-based drink with a secret blend of herbs and spices. Today, it’s commonly served with lemonade, plenty of ice, and a mix of fresh fruit, making it the ultimate summer punch. The exact recipe is a secret, which has invited a host of other producers to have a crack at their own versions. This has resulted in some disasters, but also some worthy competitors… and as you’ll see, perhaps even some superior creations? But first, let’s start with the classic Pimm’s so we know what we’re comparing to.

Pimm’s No.1 Cup

The original, the benchmark, the irreplaceable? We’ll see. But what can’t be disputed is its position as the gold standard of British summer drinks. Its mahogany hue, with aromas of baked strawberry, orange rind, cooking spices, and a hint of medicinal herbs, ends with a delightful bitter quinine bite. Dark brown with a reddish tint, Pimm’s No. 1 offers a subtle blend of spice and citrus flavours. Quintessentially refreshing… but can we do better?

Size: 1L
ABV: 25%
Find here: £13 (usually much more!)

5 Great Alternatives to Pimm’s

ALDI Austin's Classic Summer Punch Spirit Drink

This is much cheaper alternative has a cult following for being not just an equal to Pimm’s, but for many people, better! Which? rated it number one, ahead of the original and all other own brand versions, praised for the refreshing flavour bursting with fruits. The harmonious balance and surprising layers of flavour is quite remarkable for the money. Try it and be the judge for yourself!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £7.99

Tesco Summer Cup

Tesco’s attempt is a fragrant blend of aromatic botanicals, zesty fruits, and delicate spices. With a rich cherry red hue, it looks and smells almost like Pimm’s but the taste reveals a clear difference. This is slightly spicier, more herbal and more bitter. But when mixed with the classic lemonade pairing the balance ends up about right. It’s somewhat simple with no fireworks, but absolutely does the job for under £10.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £8.50

Ableforth’s Summer Fruit Cup

Ableforth’s crack at a summer hit is a thing of beauty. At 31%, it’s punchier than Pimm’s but the alcohol is integrated softly into the whirlwind of rich fruits, lofty herbaceous notes and pronounced bitterness. Crafted by macerating strawberries, cucumber, orange, and mint in pure wheat spirit, it’s then re-distilled at room temperature. Perfect for Campari fans.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 31.2%
Find here: £17.95 (usually more!)

Sipsmith London Cup

What a bottle. Sipsmith London Cup offers a unique twist on the classic summer drink, infusing their signature London Dry with a host of interesting botanicals including tea, citrus, caramel, borage and verbena. With a lighter colour in the glass and flavours reminiscent of cola cubes and wild strawberry sweets, it finishes with a bitter bark bite and a pleasant weight from the higher alcohol content. Refreshing and distinct, it’s great with tonic or ginger beer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 29.5%
Find here: £21.94

Cotswolds Summer Cup

This blend features two sherries added to the gin base, giving it a tangy kick. And you can tell it’s a real quality gin too. With a darker treacle hue and a bittersweet, caramel flavour, it boasts plenty of zest and a proper boozy punch. Big helpings of red fruit are balanced by cardamom, juniper, and lavender. Though not as thirst-quenching as Pimm’s, it’s still very quaffable. It’s very elegant inside and out

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £23

If you want more super summery drinks, try these superb simple rum cocktails.

Mount Gay Releases New Limited Edition Eclipse Navy Strength Rum

Rum’s Caribbean heritage goes way back to the 1600s so to be the world's oldest rum distillery takes some doing, and to still be at the top of their game is even more impressive. That honour goes to Mount Gay, who have just launched a new limited-edition rum: Mount Gay Eclipse Navy Strength. This release coincides with Cowes Week, a prestigious sailing event, highlighting Mount Gay's deep-rooted connection with the sailing community.

Established in 1703, Mount Gay has a rich history of crafting exceptional rums in Barbados. The new Eclipse Navy Strength, crafted by Master Blender Trudiann Branker, celebrates this heritage. Did you know that the term "Navy Strength" harks back to a time when sailors needed their rum to be potent enough to ignite wet gunpowder? This meant ensuring it was at least 57.1% ABV, the standard for Navy Strength.

"For this release, I took inspiration from Mount Gay’s long history with sailing," said Branker. "The history of navy strength spirits is fascinating and experimenting with the beloved Eclipse blend at navy strength revealed vibrant flavours. Whether with mixers or in cocktails, it is a delight."

First launched in 1910, Mount Gay Eclipse is renowned for its balanced and aromatic profile, featuring notes of vanilla, almond, ripe banana, and dark chocolate. This limited edition takes it a step further by incorporating older pot still rums aged between two to four years, enhancing its complexity. Bottled at the traditional Navy Strength of 57.1% ABV, Eclipse Navy Strength offers bold flavours of roasted pineapple, banana, mocha, and vanilla, all deliver with a big whack of boozy intensity.

It's a versatile expression that sounds like a lot of fun exploring over simply ice, but it’s perfect for classic and inventive cocktails alike. Mount Gay have suggested some tropical beauties that sound ideal for sunny sipping: 

Navy Paloma

Ingredients:
1oz (30ml) Eclipse Navy Strength
3-4oz (90-120ml) grapefruit soda
Garnish with grapefruit slice

Method:
Simply build in a highball glass and garnish with grapefruit slice.

Navy Punch

Ingredients:
1 oz (30 ml) Eclipse Navy Strength
0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz (15 ml) orgeat (or vanilla simple syrup)
1oz (30ml) filtered water (omit water if making a single serve, simply shake and strain over ice)

Method:
A classic batch punch, simply mix everything together with ice in a jug!

Fresh Coco Mojito

Ingredients:
1 oz (30 ml) Eclipse Navy Strength
0.75 oz (22.5 ml) simple syrup (1:1)
1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
2 oz (60 ml) young coconut water
10 mint leaves

Method:
Lightly press mint leaves in the bottom of the shaker tin, add rum, lime and simple syrup and lightly shake. Pour into Collins or highball glass, add coconut water and crushed ice to top. Garnish with mint!

Mount Gay Eclipse Navy Strength is now available at Master of Malt for £35. This limited-edition rum not only honours Mount Gay’s maritime legacy but also delivers an elevated tasting experience for rum enthusiasts – a win for everybody. Celebrate Mount Gay’s storied past and vibrant present with this remarkable new release, a true testament to their enduring craftsmanship and innovation. Cheers to 320 years of exceptional rum, and to many more in the future.

8 Interesting World Gins To Try

Although the British Isles is considered the home of gin, this article is a love letter to a unique collection of eight interesting gins from other world nations that are currently getting noticed. Let’s call it ‘Around the World in Eight Gins’!

Although some may be harder to find than others, once experienced, it won’t be hard to see why each is so highly regarded by judges and why they stand out in the global gin market because of local terroir, botanical herbs, fruit, flowers, or in recognition of their innovation and craftsmanship.

Our tour of these world gins begins in Spain, where gin drinking was first taken to legendary new heights back when gin and tonic was turned into an art form.

GIN MARE MEDITERRANEAN GIN (SPAIN)

Gin Mare is an iconic spirit brand, characterised by its savoury Mediterranean-inspired botanical profile of Spanish Arbequina olives, Greek thyme, rosemary from Turkey and Italian basil. The perfect gin to manage the emotions, this heady herbaceous gin gets you into a holiday spirit. As its aromas heighten the senses, you’re mentally transported to a place in the sun where vistas of azure blue sea brush with mother nature’s herbal bounty and coax you to taste the sunshine. As their marketing states: the Med is more than a place, it’s an attitude.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42.7%
Find here: £37.50

MONKEY 47 SCHWARZWALD DRY GIN (GERMANY)

Monkey 47 is named after its 47 botanicals (including lingonberries) many of which are sourced from Germany’s Black Forest. What’s special about this dry gin is the obsession with variety and innovation. They’ve fine-tuned a production process involving maceration, batch distillation, percolation and oxidisation. The local water used is soft and high quality and the handcrafted final product is bottled at a healthy 47% ABV. The custom-made, decanter-style bottles are dark glass to keep the exotically aromatic liquid protected from harmful ultraviolet rays. The gin is crisp, citrus-forward, reassuringly heavy and, as you’d expect, complex enough to please a true gin enthusiast’s curiosity.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £41.95

DOROTHY PARKER NEW YORK GIN (USA)

Deemed by some as the best American floral gin, Dorothy Parker Gin from the New York Distilling Company is made using a blend of traditional and contemporary botanical ingredients including juniper, elderberries, citrus, cinnamon and hibiscus petals. Although the floral notes are prominent, this is still very much a proper gin. The cinnamon spiciness develops wonderfully and is fantastic in gin cocktails.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £34.75

FOUR CORNERS AMERICAN GIN (USA)

Made ‘from America’, this all-American gin is handcrafted using ingredients crisscrossing all four corners of the United States including wild juniper from the Pacific Northwest, yerba santa from the Mojave desert to Maine cranberries and wild cherry bark from Florida. The wide variety of botanicals works in harmony to showcase the best of the nation’s regions in one glass. It’s a terroir gin that celebrates the diverse and vast, iconic landscapes of the country. This gin was created to be a true taste of America and celebrated its success when it won double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: $43.99

AMAZZONI GIN (BRAZIL)

The gin boom in Brazil is in full swing. Made at the first dedicated gin distillery in Brazil, Amázzoni Gin includes five botanical ingredients unique only to Brazil that shine alongside more traditional gin botanicals. These include cocoa, Brazilian chestnut, maxixe (a local cucumber-like vegetable) water lily and cipò cravo, a native flower similar to clove. It’s naturally earthy, floral and has some spice. A must-try.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £37.25

GEELONG GIN (AUSTRALIA)

Adelaide-based Australian Distilling Co’s Geelong Gin out-tasted 60 gins from some of the world’s greatest gin brands this year when it won the overall Best of Class Platinum Award at the 2024 International SIP Awards. Proudly parochial, this uniquely Australian dry gin champions local ingredients to taste of the community that inspired it with overtones of raspberry sweetness to balance its peppermint gum and black pepper flavours. A story of innovation waiting to be discovered, Geelong is designed to be paired with a basil garnish in a G&T served as an aperitif.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42.7%
Find here: $83.00

ROKU GIN (JAPAN)

In Japan Roku means ‘six’ and each bottle of Suntory Roku Gin is infused with six uniquely Japanese botanicals that ripen throughout the year. Celebrating all four seasons of Japan, harvests occur at the peak of their season or “shun”. They include floral cherry blossom (sakura flowers are handpicked in Spring), and herbal Sencha and Gyokuro teas (plucked in Summer). In autumn it's time for the spicy Sansho pepper and winter is when the zingy yuzu fruit bursts into ripeness. Celebrate the bounty of nature, and careful craftsmanship and experience a year in Japan in every sip. Garnish with thin slices of ginger in a gin and tonic.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £31 (£25 Clubcard Price)

INDLOVU PINK GIN (SOUTH AFRICA)

Don’t poo poo this South African gin until you’ve tried it - it’s made using elephant-foraged botanicals, yes, ingredients eaten - then excreted - by elephants. Despite a varied diet, elephants only digest around 50% of their food which leaves a rich variety of pre-foraged plant life including roots, bark, fruit, flowers and seeds behind for reuse! To make Indlovu Pink Gin (Indlovu means elephant) the dung is collected by hand, GPS coordinates and date of collection noted, then dutifully washed, sterilised and dried for distillation with other ingredients including prickly pear. “The Bare Necessities of life will come to you” and give back as 15% of profits are donated to the Africa Foundation to support wildlife conservation. A gin that encapsulates the spirit of Africa and dares to be different is never to be forgotten. The circle of life.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: R369.00

So, the question is, how adventurous a gin lover are you? What flavours from around the world will you be adding to your home gin collection next and how much will you enjoy sipping these diverse gins that are so deserving of your attention? Happy sipping!

By Robbie Jerram

8 Red Leg Spiced Rum Cocktails You Can Easily Make at Home!

Image credit: Blake Acaster

For the uninitiated, crafting a well balanced cocktail at home can be an overwhelming task! Why even bother when you can crack open a crisp wine for your next house party? There’s always a time for wine, but we’re also firm believers in the merits of making something for your guests, and it doesn’t have to be complicated! Using minimal ingredients, a small shopping list and the smallest stock of equipment, you too can be the life of your next house party! We’ve teamed up with Red Leg Spiced Rum and Franklin & Sons mixers to show you just how easy it can be to make some delicious beverages! 

Franklin & Sons have a vast array of mixers to elevate your cocktail game without adding stress to the crafting of your drink or breaking the bank. Spiced rum provides a fantastic base for low-ingredient cocktails, as they’re full of spices and sugars that might otherwise be lost in a “simple three ingredient cocktail.” Red Leg blends their aged rum with sweet vanilla and ginger, and these deliciously layered flavours form the basis for today’s cocktails.

You can find Red Leg Spiced Rum Here: Master of Malt - £23
ABV: 37.5%
Size: 700ml

You can find Franklin & Sons here: Franklin & Sons Shop

Making Cocktails at Home

Making cocktails at home doesn’t have to be difficult, and you don’t have to spend crazy money to do it! Here’s some equipment that might be useful, and some cheap alternatives that will work perfectly fine on your kitchen counter: 

• A cocktail shaker is ideal, but in a pinch it can be replaced with a strong mason jar. 

• Strainers are essential behind a busy bar, but at home, you’ll do just as well with a mesh sieve. 

• Many cocktails need to be stirred with a bar-spoon, but using the long end of a normal spoon should do just fine. Pro Tip: Chopsticks do a wonderful job at stirring down a drink. 

• Crushed ice - cubed ice, a bag and a hammer will do wonders.

• Lovely glassware is great, and use the recommended glasses in this article as a guide, but use whatever you have at home. It’s supposed to be fun.

• Simple syrups. These can be store-bought but are cheaper to make at home. Simply combine equal parts sugar (white, brown or demerara) with hot water and dissolve. You’ve got a homemade syrup ready to impress! Fresh is always best.

Without any further ado, here’s… 

8 Simple Cocktails you Can Make At home

Caribbean Mule 

Image credit: Blake Acaster

This crisp, refreshing twist on the classic mule cocktail will keep your thirst quenched all summer long. Rum, lime and ginger beer is about as timeless a cocktail as you’re likely to get, and using a good spiced rum is a way to add complexity to the classic cocktail without overpowering it. For the best mule, always always use fresh lime, and muddle them into the glass to extract not only the juice from the lime, but the oils from the zest for added character. 

Ingredients: 
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum
4 Lime Wedges 
Franklin & Sons Ginger Beer

Method:
Muddle the limes in a copper mug (or a “mule mug”) and then add ice. Add the rum and fill with Franklin & Sons Ginger beer. Pull all the ingredients through with a spoon and serve. 
Optional Garnish: Mint and lime.

Spiced Ginger Julep

Image credit: Blake Acaster

Keeping up the theme of frosty classics served in unique vessels, this Spiced Ginger Julep is sure to leave your guests wanting more! Franklin & Sons’ Mandarin and Ginger soda adds a delightful freshness to this drink that one might not find in a classic julep, without skipping out on any of the alcohol content. Vanilla, ginger, mandarin and mint is a match made in pirate heaven! 

Ingredients: 
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
Handful of Mint
Franklin & Sons Ginger and Mandarin

Method:
Add all ingredients to a tin mug (or Julep Mug) and fill with crushed ice. Mix well to incorporate the mint and serve once ice cold and frosty. 
Optional Garnish: Mint Bouquet. 

Beachcombers' Hi-Ball 

Image credit: Blake Acaster

Did you know the classic Zombie cocktail was created by a legendary bartender (and avid rum-loving swashbuckler) who went by ‘Donn the Beachcomber’? The old recipe called for a secret blend of rum, spices and grapefruit. We’ve created this easy sipping ode to the Tiki giants of the past as a way to enjoy some of the exotic flavours of Polynesian paradise, without needing 14 ingredients and a flash blender. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
Franklin & Sons Grapefruit Soda
10ml Grenadine

Method:
Add rum and grapefruit soda into your funkiest tall glass, filled with crushed ice. Pop in a straw and top with more crushed ice to create an ice-layer, then drizzle the grenadine over the top. 
Optional Garnish: Cinnamon, mint, grapefruit. Umbrella, cherry, pineapple. Get Tiki! Go crazy! 

Sky High Mai Tai

Image credit: Blake Acaster

Even more Tiki! With this Sky High Mai Tai, you’ll be sure to host unforgettable evenings. The classic flavours of rum, lime and almond are balanced beautifully into this summery hi-ball cocktail consisting of Red Leg Spiced Rum, fresh lime (always fresh) and the decidedly Tiki Pineapple and Almond Soda from Franklin & Sons. If you’ve tried a Mai Tai before and found it to be a little on the strong side, we implore you to give it a second chance in the form of this cocktail.

Ingredients: 
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
15ml Fresh lime Juice
Franklin & Sons Pineapple and Almond Soda

Method:
Add cubed ice to a classy hi-ball glass, then simply add all your ingredients and mix with a spoon. 
Optional Garnish: Single, elegant pineapple leaf.

Light n’ Breezy

Image credit: Blake Acaster

It’s incredible how much variance you can get with ingredients as simple as rum and ginger. This time, we’re swapping out the muddled lime for the deeply herbaceous Angostura Bitters, and the much lighter Franklin & Sons’ Ginger Ale, creating an easy-going, ‘light n’ breezy’ cocktail that you’re bound to come back to again and again!

Ingredients:
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
Franklin & Sons Ginger Ale 
Angostura Bitters

Method:
Another super simple hi-ball cocktail. Add cubed ice to a gorgeous hi-ball, the rum and fill with ginger ale, mix well. Dash 2-3 drops of angostura on top to create a stunning aromatic layer.

Lychee-Guava Spritz

Image credit: Blake Acaster

This surprising combination of vanilla, ginger, lychee, guava and lime has all the complexity of a high-end cocktail with almost none of the work involved. If you don’t believe us, you’ll just have to try it for yourself. Sometimes the most contrasting ingredients make the most fun cocktails, as is this case with this globe-trotting spritz that’ll equally delight and amaze your guests! 

Ingredients: 
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
50ml Lychee Juice 
Franklin & Sons Guava and Lime Soda

Method:
Add all ingredients to a chilled, iced wine glass. The simplest cocktails are often the most delicious… 
Optional Garnish: Powdered Sugar painted on the glass (as pictured) 

Red Leg Daiquiri

Image credit: Blake Acaster

Classic cocktails are often much more simple than the average person expects. The Daiquri has a rich history, dating back hundreds of years and actually originating in the Royal Navy, rather than some sort of old-timey cocktail bar. The drink has stood the test of time, and Red Leg Spiced Rum adds an extra spiced kick to this simple classic. You can’t go wrong with rum, lime and sugar. 

Ingredients: 
50ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
25ml Lime Juice
20ml Demerara Syrup

Method:
Add all ingredients to a shaker, or a mason jar. Shake hard until chilled then strain into a coupe glass.

Red Leg Espresso Martini

Image credit: Blake Acaster

Espresso Martinis are unbeatable all year round cocktails! If you’ve reached this far into this article, you’re probably ready for a brew, and we have just the tipple for you! A potent blend of spiced rum, coffee liqueur and cold brew coffee makes for a well-balanced twist on the Espresso Martini. Remember to shake hard until it’s foamy and delightfully textured. Store-bought cold brew will do the trick, but nothing beats an Espresso Martini with top-notch homemade coffee. 

Ingredients: 
35ml Red Leg Spiced Rum 
25ml Coffee Liqueur
75ml Cold Brew Coffee

Method:
As above… Add all ingredients to a shaker, or a mason jar. Shake hard until chilled then strain into a coupe glass. 
Optional Garnish: Coffee Beans

You’re now armed to the teeth with eight delightful spiced rum cocktails. One bottle, infinite combinations. What are you waiting for? Call up your besties; happy mixing! 

By Miley Kendrick

The Best Rum Cocktails for Summer

When it comes to kicking back, shutting your eyes and feeling the bliss of the sun on your skin, the cocktail most people want plonked in front of them involves rum. Nothing quite captures the essence of tropical paradise like it, and with a variety of styles, it’s easy to bring your own twist.

Pool lounging, garden parties, outdoor bars, picnics or simply sat by a sunny window, these rum cocktails get you in that easy-going sun-kissed mood. We’ve included some classic favourites that are tailor made for this time of year, as well as some playful twists.

Mojito

Sometimes the obvious choice is obvious for a reason. Cuba’s favourite serve might not be quite as simple as lumping ingredients together, but with only a touch of muddling required and simple ingredients, it’s well worth it. Rum, mint and lime create the ultimate refresher; a breezy, fresh timeless favourite to cool you down and unwind.

Ingredients
50ml white rum
Juice of 1 lime
1 tsp sugar/ 15ml sugar syrup
A handful of mint leaves
Soda water
Garnish: mint

 Method
Crush mint leaves with lime juice and sugar syrup. Add ice and rum, then top with soda water. Stir gently, garnish with mint, and enjoy the essence of summer relaxation.

Top Tip: Never slice or dice the mint, always crush the leaves gently to unlock all those flavoursome oils.

Strawberry & Basil Mojito

This variation screams summer. We’re swapping the mint for basil and of course if we’re doing that, strawberry is getting involved. The best method for including strawberries is via a simple syrup – see the method. The lime remains to bring that vivid tang and the basil brings that fragrant herbal sweetness. If a cocktail is ever to put a smile on your face, it’s this one.

Ingredients
50ml white rum
5 basil leaves
15ml lime juice
20ml strawberry syrup
Soda water
Garnish: basil sprig and strawberry slices

 Method
It’s very easy to make the strawberry syrup by adding water, sugar and strawberries to a pan in the ratio 1:1:1/2. 12 or so minutes of medium cooking will dissolve and infuse everything, before straining into a jar. Use once cool or refrigerate for up to a month. Other than that, it’s a classic mojito method – muddle the basil gently with the syrup and lime juice, pour in your rum whilst adding ice and top up with soda water. Delish.

Piña Colada

Another icon that we just can’t leave out. This sunny serve also involves three bold flavours working together –coconut, pineapple and rum. The Piña Colada is a perfect summer companion, blending the rich flavours of aromatic coconut cream with the tangy sweetness of pineapple juice. It’s a drink that transports you straight to a sunny beach with every sip, making it a favourite for poolside lounging or any summer gathering. Use fresh juice if possible! A proper taste of tropical paradise in a glass.

Ingredients
60ml white rum
60ml coconut cream
120ml crushed pineapple/pineapple juice
Garnish: pineapple wedge

Method
Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass, garnish with a pineapple wedge, and serve. Just be aware that if your blender isn’t the best, you may need to use crushed ice.

Bushwacker

In a similar vein to the Colada is the Bushwacker. With its sweetness, the Piña Colada feels indulgent sure, but if you want even more of a dessert-style indulgent sipper, we’re gonna need chocolate. Crème de cacao, coconut cream and milk bring that boozy milkshake feel, and swapping out white for dark rum layers it up with those richer, caramelly notes. What a treat.

 Ingredients
30ml dark rum
30ml creme de cacao
60ml milk
60ml coconut cream
Garnish: chocolate shavings

Method
As long as you have a blender, this couldn’t be simpler. Blend everything with a small amount of ice and bring these out instead of (or alongside) dessert to delight guests.

Strawberry Daiquiri

The original is a classic, but with strawberries being such a symbol of the British Summer, we’re going for this much-loved berry riff. The key here is to avoid the cursed super sweet slush puppies some bars serve. If you use delicious, ripe strawberries then they bring natural sugars, so we can go easy on the syrup.

Ingredients
60ml light rum
50g strawberries
20ml lime juice
10ml syrup
Strawberry or lime (optional garnish)

Method
Add everything to a blender with ice but make sure to double strain over your glass when serving. Witness that enchanting red hue and dive in.

Dark ’n Stormy

This spicy and refreshing mix of dark rum and ginger beer is perfect for a summer evening as the sun sets. A splash of lime juice adds the perfect zing, and the background ginger tingles your tastebuds. The Dark ’n Stormy is known for its distinctive layering, where the dark rum floats atop the ginger beer, creating a dramatic appearance that’s as striking as its flavour. It’s a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that’s both bold and refreshing... and it cure seasickness... possibly.

 Ingredients
50ml dark rum (Goslings Black Seal for traditionalists)
80ml ginger beer
20ml lime juice (optional)
Lime wedge (garnish)

Method
Probably the easiest cocktail to make – add your ginger beer over ice and top up with dark rum! 

Zombie

Legend goes that one hungover man at a bar in 1934 ordered this and became zombified for the rest of the day – take a look at the ingredients and you’ll see why. It might be a tiki classic but it isn’t for the faint-hearted or for light summer sipping – though it certainly has its place. A trio of rums each bring a layer of complexity which is given an intense punch of complex spice from the falernum liqueur. Tropical juices and brandy complete a punch style cocktail with powerful flavours everywhere you look.

Ingredients
30ml dark rum
30ml light rum
20ml overproof rum
10ml falernum liqueur
30ml lime juice
20ml pink grapefruit juice
15ml apricot brandy
30ml pineapple juice
10ml grenadine
Pinch of salt (optional)
Garnish: orange slice/maraschino cherry/sprig of mint/pineapple wedge

Method
Shake all ingredients except the overproof rum with ice, strain over fresh ice, and float the overproof rum on top. Garnish as desired. Enjoy… with caution.

Mai Tai

Sticking with the tiki theme as it’s perfect for summer, this treasure traditionally involves tonnes of homemade creations but nowadays, you can make things easier for yourself. The warmth of the rum is perfectly complemented by the almond sweetness of orgeat syrup and the bright citrus notes of lime and orange liqueur, making it a sophisticated yet fun drink.

 Ingredients
60ml blended rum (like Appleton)
20ml lime juice
20ml orgeat syrup
15ml orange liqueur
Garnish: mint sprig

Method
Shake all ingredients with crushed ice until the shaker frosts. Strain over fresh crushed ice, garnish with a mint sprig, and serve. All tiki decorations welcome.

These are some summer specific rum serves, but if you’re after more and you don’t care what season they’re suited to, take a look at 7 Delicious Rum Cocktails.