What Are Aromatised Wines?

Aromatised wines have ancient roots that date back thousands of years. In hunter-gatherer societies, wine-like drinks were infused with botanicals for rituals, ceremonies and medicinal purposes. In Ancient Rome, wine was mixed with water and spiked with herbs and spices. The Romans initially aromatised lesser quality wines to make them more palatable and we know drinking aided their digestion. Intriguing flavours with medicinal properties derived from nature were considered both beneficial and enjoyable to drink.

Today, our modern aromatised wines are important in bar and cocktail culture and, of course, every home bar should have some in stock (preferably chilling in the fridge) in readiness for that drinker who always appreciates a more sensory flavour experience. 

Not suited to all tastes, bitter-sweet drinks are enjoyed by many people, especially those who enjoy dark chocolate. And just like chocolate, sweetness falls on a spectrum. If you’re a home bartender you never know when a sudden desire for a Manhattan, Negroni or Martini might strike in one of your guests. Like every good Boy Scout or Girl Guide, being prepared is imperative. 

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FORTIFIED WINES AND AROMATISED WINES?

Whenever wine has neutral distilled alcohol added, it is fortified, i.e it’s been strengthened. The biggest players in fortified wines are Port, Sherry and Marsala. But none of these regional tipples (from Portugal, Spain and Sicily respectively) are considered ‘aromatised’ wines. They are simply wines with higher ABV. 

Aromatised wines belong under the same family umbrella as fortified wines because of the alcohol added. ABV is typically between 14.5% and 22%. What differentiates this sub-category is the addition of aromatic botanicals. The wine becomes more complex with the addition of spices, herbs, roots, flowers, leaves and fruit. Bitter botanicals are characteristic, so to balance the bitterness, aromatised wine is typically sweetened, either with sugar or caramel colouring which can deepen the liquid’s colour as well as adding sweetness to the mix.

So the difference is - fortified wines have neutral alcohol added but no herbs or spices. Aromatised wines have neutral alcohol added and aromatic botanicals, sometimes sugar. Some brands use mistelle as an ingredient for sweetness which is a blend of slightly fermented white grape wine to which brandy has been added too.

BOTANICALS & DIFFERENT VARIETIES

The principal botanicals used in aromatic wines are bitter herbs: wormwood, quinine and gentian. The three main types of aromatised wine are Vermouth (wormwood), Quinquina or Chinato (quinine/cinchona) and Americano (wormwood and gentian). Vermouth far outweighs the other varieties in worldwide popularity because of its use as a staple in many popular cocktails so that’s what this article focuses on. The most famous Quinquina is Dubonnet, an aromatised French red wine often enjoyed as an aperitif. Americano is an Italian aperitif which can be an aromatised version of Bianco or Rosa wine.  

Other botanicals used in the making of aromatised wines are ones you may recognise from gin production - think exotic spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Citrus peels, roots, flowers, and barks may also be used, adding layers of nuance and complexity to the wine's flavour profile. Each ingredient contributes its character to the final blend.

VERMOUTH

The king of all aromatised wines, the name Vermouth comes from the German word for the intensely bitter herb, wormwood—vermut.

Strict rules exist around how it’s made and what counts as Vermouth:

The first rule is one of the flavourings must be wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). 

The plant’s weedy, eucalyptus, intensely herbaceous character attacks both the front and back palate which means that infusing wine with wormwood in any meaningful quantity imparts great herbaceousness and a bitter undertone. Wormwood has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce swelling and pain in joints and muscles, to aid digestion, and to treat skin infections and intestinal worms, hence its curious name. Wormwood is also a known ingredient in absinthe. The taste is extremely bitter but this can be sweetened.

The second rule for Vermouth is that there should be a minimum wine content of 75%. So, three quarters wine and a helping of wormwood and you’re well on the way to making Vermouth!

French and Italian Vermouth Origins

Traditionally Dry Vermouth was seen as the French style, while Sweet Vermouth was Italian. Although contemporary innovations have now blurred these distinctions, it’s good to recognise the origins. If you see Vermouth di Torino on a bottle label it means the liquid originates from Piedmont, the region of Italy around Turin, where Vermouth was first made. So as a rule of thumb, if Torino is on the label, you can expect it to be something pretty special.  

Today, modern Vermouths come from several worldwide wine-growing regions, not just France and Italy. Producers are permitted to use the name Vermouth as long as they adhere to the above rules. 

Colour and sweetness range across the full bitterness/sweetness spectrum, going from the light-coloured Extra Dry to Dry to Bianco/Blanco to Rosé/Rosata and finally Sweet (red) Vermouth. The first three of those are typically made from white wine but so too can rosé and sweet vermouth be made from white grapes. The final liquid that’s bottled doesn’t necessarily reflect the colour of the grapes the wine originated as, because caramel colouring is often added to white wine to create the red-coloured Sweet Vermouths. Here’s the spectrum from driest to sweetest:

1. Extra Dry Vermouth: The appearance of this is clear, the colour is pale lemon, and it tastes very dry with just a hint of flowers. Great for extra dry martinis. See La Copa Extra Seco, the Spanish Vermouth below. 

2. Dry Vermouth: More of a pale gold hue, this is a bit sweeter, spicier and has more herbal complexity than its extra dry counterpart. Shines in a martini or just sip this one neat (chilled) or over ice. The well-loved brand below is Noilly Prat Original Dry Vermouth de France.

3. Bianco/Blanco Vermouth: This one is medium lemon or gold in colour, tastes more tart and light and a bit like sweet vermouth but with a tangy citrus brightness. It's nice to sip alone or mix with soda or tonic. See the Argentinian Blanco Vermouth from La Fuerza below.

4. Rosé/Rosata Vermouth: Made with white or rosé wine to give it a naturally pretty pink colour, this Vermouth often bears a mix of sweet and bitter citrus and floral notes. You can sip it alone or mix it with soda or tonic. 

5. Sweet Vermouths: Colour is typically red and intensity can vary from medium amber to deep red. Made from any wine, they often have caramel added to deepen the colour and balance the bitterness of the wormwood with sweetness. A smooth, sweet, mouth-filling texture with some complexity coming from spicy botanicals. Sweet Vermouths are famously used in cocktails like the Manhattan, Negroni and the Negroni’s lighter, drier cousin the Gin & It. Cocchi VdT is ideal for this cocktail which would work well with lighter citrus or herbal gins.

HOW TO SERVE VERMOUTH 

Vermouth is an enjoyable drink you can sip slowly, either by itself or with ice and a slice of citrus or an olive. When you want something with flavour but not too much alcohol it’s a great choice. “Martini and Lemonade” or “Cinzano and Lemonade” was a popular choice for ladies in the 1970s, “with ice and a slice”. For a lighter option, mix vermouth with Indian tonic water and you’ve got a refreshing, uplifting beverage for ladylike sipping. 

Vermouth isn't just for sipping as the main alcohol in the glass—it's an important ingredient in famous cocktails like the Martini, Negroni, Manhattan, and Martinez. If you like making cocktails at home, make sure you have different bottles of vermouth at the ready. 

But don’t leave them on the shelf or stashed at the back of your drinks cabinet—because they don’t keep. While the elevated alcohol and sugar help to preserve vermouth longer than wine, once you open the bottle, it starts to oxidise and change, so keep bottles chilling in the fridge, ideally sealed with a vacuum stopper.

THE BEST DRY VERMOUTHS FOR A MARTINI

Vermouth tends to pair well with just about any spirit but its most famous partner in crime is gin to which it brings balance and nuanced flavours in the form of a Classic Martini - botanical bliss.

EXTRA DRY: La Copa Extra Seco (Spain)

Extra dry vermouth contains the least amount of sugar out of all the Vermouths. Spain popularised Vermut. Using a base of Fino sherry, this extra dry Vermouth is built around the Gonzalez Byass original 1896 ‘French Vermouth’ recipe. It has herbaceous and citrus aromas with a distinctive dry savoury character. Red fruits have been added to enhance the balsamic notes to give this a long, salty finish. Ideal for an equal parts Classic Martini (aka ‘Wet’ Martini) when extra dry is called for. If you like a Dirty Martini, this is one to try. Add an olive for garnish and a splash of brine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £18.49

DRY: Noilly Prat Original Dry (France)

Made from a selection of the finest white wines with 20 different herbs and spices including aromatic chamomile flower and coriander from Morocco and bitter oranges from Tunisia. Pairs best with seafood such as oysters. This is best served chilled as an aperitif or in a Classic Dry Martini. Garnish “with a twist” of lemon peel.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 18%
Find here: £13

BLANCO: La Fuerza Blanco Vermouth (Argentina)

La Fuerza is an Argentine independent project that creates drink and food experiences with a strong local identity. This is their Blanco ‘Vermouth of The Andes’ crafted in Mendoza with wine made from Malbec and Torrontes grapes. Botanicals are sourced from different parts of the country and wild herbs are harvested from the foothills of the Andes. Notes of mint, wild thyme and sage, rosemary, anise, coriander seeds and chamomile flowers. La Fuerza Blanco goes well in any Martini, whatever your ratios or garnish preference. Alternatively, you may enjoy sipping it alone with ice or add some tonic water and a slice of lemon.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £21.99

THE BEST SWEET VERMOUTHS FOR A NEGRONI

Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino (Italy)

This iconic Sweet Vermouth from Piedmont, Italy was voted 2020 Top Trending Vermouth and 2020 Best-Selling Vermouth in the World’s 100 Best Bars. Produced using the same recipe Giulio Cocchi created in 1891. It has a remarkably complex flavour with rich, vibrant notes of cocoa, citrus and rhubarb with a balance bitter undertone. For the perfect Negroni, combine equal parts of Cocchi VdT, gin and bitters over ice. Stir and garnish with an orange peel. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 16%
Find here: £20

La Fuerza Rojo Vermouth (Argentina)

Crafted from 100% Malbec, Mendoza-grown grapes and wild herbs harvested from the foothills of the Andes in Argentina. A local and unique Vermouth that is truly the ‘Vermouth of The Andes’. Earthy notes with mace, star anise, dried fruits and spice with notes of peppermint and green tea. Served in a Negroni, the earthy notes really shine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £21.99

Bolney Rosso Vermouth (UK) 50cl 20% ABV £17.00

A delicious, award-winning English Rosso Vermouth from Bolney Estate in rural Mid-Sussex, pioneers of award-winning English wine since 1972. This vermouth has rich sloe and blackcurrant fruit flavours with caramel, eucalyptus and wormwood with faint rosé and elderflower blossom. Rich red colour with herbal and spicy tones. Awarded a gold medal at the 2022 World Vermouth Awards, this is a must-try for a fruitier-tasting red Negroni. Serve with equal parts Amaro, Bolney Gin and Bolney Vermouth over ice and garnish with a slice of candied orange.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £17

SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO TRY: ORANGE VERMOUTH

Denbies Orange Solaris is a hugely successful English white wine from one of England’s largest vineyards in Surrey. Made in the style of a red from 100% Solaris grapes, the wine stays on skins for up to five months to give it a unique, bold orangey flavour. At the end of 2023, Denbies released an aromatised version of this innovative wine: English Orange Vermouth made from the second pressings of Orange Solaris wine. There’s a crisp bitterness, apricot hues and a strong citrus character that nods heavily towards freshly peeled tangerines, bergamot, thyme and baked apple. This unique vermouth has bright notes that make a wonderful Orange Negroni. You can also enjoy this served over ice as a spritzer, mixing with equal parts of soda water and Denbies sparkling wine. 

How long does vermouth keep once the bottle is opened?

Whichever aromatised wines you decide to try, because of their wine base - which by EU and US law must be a minimum of 75% - these are not spirits so their shelf life is shorter than you may think. Once opened, keep your bottles in the fridge (whether white or red) and ideally use them within a month. If you doubt an aromatised wine’s condition, let your nose be the guide, just as you would with wine.  

Viva Vermouth! Happy sipping Vermouth lovers. 

By Robbie Jerram

The ABC’s of Chardonnay

Image credit: Will Wong

Which of the following best describes you?

1. Always bring a Chardonnay.

2. Anything but Chardonnay.

3. Albariño, Bacchus or Chenin Blanc.

4. Assyrtiko Baby.

Have you met anyone who said they hate Chardonnay but love Chablis and Champagne? Well, Chablis is 100% Chardonnay and Champagne except Blanc de Noirs is likely to be a blend containing Chardonnay. Love it or hate it, Chardonnay is everywhere on wine shelves. It is a versatile grape that grows in cool, moderate and warm climates. With different winemaking techniques, Chardonnay comes in a broad range of dry white wines, from high-volume brands to premium wines that can age for decades when stored correctly.

Besides Chablis further north, Burgundy from north to south between Dijon and Lyon in eastern France is where Chardonnay began. In fact, the grape takes its name from the village Chardonnay in the Mâcon region; except you won’t see Chardonnay on the labels of Burgundian whites. Then there is the rest of the world from America (California, Oregon and Washington State) to England, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Some wine enthusiasts even name their daughters Chardonnay. Chenin or Cabernet have a long way to go in naming rights.

These used to be the principal versions of Chardonnay: the limestone, flinty and steely Chablis, and those judiciously oaked but still restrained Bourgogne whites; to the big, buttery and oak in your nose New World contestants primarily from Australia and California in the 1980s. Fashion comes and goes. If anything, there seems to be a convergence between styles. Many Australian and Californian Chardonnay now gravitate towards the Burgundian style. Clare Valley Chardonnay in South Australia mimic Burgundy in everything, except for their different climate and terroir. 

With differences in terroir, climate and winemaking styles, let’s take a wine trip around the world from Chile to Australia, then Burgundy, California, New Zealand and finish our Chardonnay expedition in South Africa.

Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Chilean Chardonnay 2022

Image credit: Will Wong

Founded in 1880, Santa Rita Estate's vineyards in the Casablanca Valley region are 500 metres above sea level close to the Pacific coast, with cooling sea breezes and morning fogs helping Chardonnay grapes to ripen slowly. This microclimate results in high acidity with intense fruit and flavours, all essential to make good wine.

This Chardonnay charms with a citrusy and tropical fruits nose, think bananas and even a hint of almonds. It’s medium-bodied with fresh acidity well balanced with spicy oak. Try it with pan-fried fish or creamy pasta dishes. Really good value for money.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (Buy 6 and save 25% discount available until 28th May)

Howard Park Margaret River 2022 Miamup Chardonnay

Image credit: Will Wong

Located 300km south of Perth in Western Australia, set between the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay and the rugged Cape Leeuwin, you will find Margaret River, one of the world's premium and most isolated winemaking regions. With ocean on three sides, Margaret River is blessed with a Mediterranean climate of warm days and warm/cool nights. Cooling sea breezes from the southern Indian Ocean help to moderate temperatures and slow ripening; giving lower yield but premium quality grapes.

Howard Park has been a pioneering West Australian winery since 1986, deploying multisite sourcing to create a consistent style across its product range. Beyond its green apples and mineral palate, the use of fine grain French oak created a layered, flavoursome and complex wine with a touch of spice, and creaminess. It can be cellared for 2-3 years, and is best served as a gastro wine with poached chicken, roast pork or even pickled vegetables and rice noodles, topped with crispy XO prawns. Perfect for summer evenings.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £13.99 (Buy 6 and save 25% discount available until 4th June)

Bread & Butter Chardonnay 2021, Napa Valley, California USA

Image credit: Will Wong

The vines are planted in deep, moist soils in the northern interior of California, where the climate is cooler due to the influence from the Sacramento delta.

It tastes exactly what it says on the label: Big Buttery or Big Bad Boy depending on your affection for or aversion to new oak. After partial malo-lactic conversion, a process that gives the wine its buttery character while retaining good acidity, it is then aged for 5 months using French and American oak.

Lush tropical fruits, pineapple and coconut with upfront toasted brioche from start to finish. Whilst it could overpower seafood or delicate white fish, it might work with Cantonese style wok-fried lobster, tarragon chicken or chargrilled pork chops. It needs big flavour food to complement the distinctive big personality. Not for the faint-hearted! However, many modern Californian Chardonnay have much more restrained oak and do not taste like this.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £13.50 (Buy 6 and save 25% discount available until 28th May)

Louis Jadot Mâcon-Azé 2022, Beaune, France

Image credit: Will Wong

The only Burgundy in our world tour selection. Established in 1859, Maison Louis Jadot now owns over 60 hectares of vineyard, many of them premier and grand cru, and in Jacques Lardière has one of the most respected winemakers working today. Lardière famously said: ‘To some extent we can impose style on a wine in the cellar, but we can’t impose character, and we can’t impose quality either. They come with the vine and terroir.’

The Chardonnay used here is grown around the tiny village of Azé, northwest of Mâcon in southern Burgundy. It is also the only Chardonnay here with no oak used, letting the dry, crisp and flinty character with pear and green apple speak for its terroir. It is medium-bodied with an intense long finish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £15.99 (Buy 6 and save 25% discount available until 4th June)

Forrest Wines, “Tatty Bogler” 2020 Chardonnay, Waitaki Valley, North Otago, New Zealand

Image credit: Will Wong

Otago’s early Scottish settlers used scarecrows or ‘tattyboglers’ as they were called, to protect their precious crops from the hungry and unfamiliar New Zealand birdlife.

Central Otago on the South Island of New Zealand is renowned for premium Pinot Noir grapes. This Chardonnay produced in Waitaki Valley, a smaller wine region cocooned by mountains is the southern-hemisphere take on Chablis.

This is fermented in French oak and has explosive aromas of lychee, pastry and nutty brioche. When you take the first sip, it’s a real surprise with refined citrus and quince flavours leading into a much leaner and chalky finish. Try it with poultry, pork, meaty white fish or creamy cheese.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £19.99

Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs 2018, Robertson, South Africa

Image credit: Will Wong

Multi-award winning ‘Méthode Cap Classique’ (made in the Traditional Method like Champagne) sparkling wine crafted from hand selected Chardonnay on the Graham Beck Robertson estate in Western Cape with its naturally limestone-rich soils. Only the highest quality juice (tête de cuvée) was selected for fermentation.

It spends 48 months on lees before disgorgement and bottling. Its lemon-lime citrus freshness is underlaid with biscuity richness. Bubbles that tinkle with elegance and finesse. These wines have even been sipped by the likes of the late Nelson Mandela and President Barack Obama!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £16.99

If you love Chardonnay, we hope to have introduced you to some you have not tried. If you hate Chardonnay, why not give the unoaked Burgundy or South African sparkling Blanc de Blancs a chance? The bottle looks classy at any dinner party, and is budget friendly without compromising on quality. Cheers!

By Will Wong

Which Red Wine Makes the Perfect New York Sour?

The visually striking New York Sour cocktail gained popularity in the 1930s and has been a cocktail bar mainstay ever since. A perfect blend of bourbon, lemon, sugar and red wine drizzled on top to craft a luscious and decadent twist on the classic Whisky Sour, with an extra boozy punch. To the uninitiated, the New York Sour sounds perhaps a little unhinged, but hear us out! The red wine adds an aromatic quality that the classic drink lacks, and casts an extra layer of depth, boldness, complexity and rich berry goodness! If sweet vermouth, port or sherry can be used in cocktails, why not a Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon?

A question might arise however, with bourbon and wine sharing such a vast array of flavour profiles - will every bourbon and red wine pairing actually work? Today, we explore this concept, but for the sake of simplicity, will focus only on the wine, and test it against the same bourbon. After all, we have to keep things scientific.

Before we learn about the best red wines to use in a New York Sour, let us provide the baseline recipe we used to test and compare. If you haven’t ever tried a New York Sour before, this is a great place to start! 

How to make a New York Sour

Ingredients
50ml or 1.5oz Bourbon  (Your favourite middle shelf will do. No need to break the bank!)
25ml or 0.75oz Fresh lemon juice 
15ml or 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
(Equal parts water and caster sugar) 
15ml or 0.5oz Red Wine

Method
Chill a large rocks glass by filling it with cubed ice. Add all ingredients except the wine into a cocktail shaker and then shake with ice. Strain into the glass and gently pour the red wine on top. Plenty of ice and a delicate pour is key for a good layer. No need for a garnish! The visual is striking as it is.  

Ideally, we want a red wine that will pair with the toasted vanilla and spice notes provided by the oak barrels that whisky is aged in. While there are endless combinations of flavours to be found in bourbon, most share an undeniable character from the barrel that the red wine must balance against. As always, there’s an element of personal preference, and every bartender will have strong feelings on the matter. 

Here are Six Red Wines that make the Ultimate New York Sour

Since it’s unlikely you’ll make enough New York Sours to use a whole bottle of wine, the bottles we recommend are also enjoyed on their own merits. We’ll do you one better too! Most of these can be found at your local supermarket.

19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon

Named after the true story of the British convicts who committed 19 crimes and were sentenced to live out their lives in Australia and pioneer a new way of life. This wine not only champions a fascinating fable, but is host to rich vanilla and red berry notes that pair perfectly with a good bourbon. The rich mouthfeel of 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon will provide a solid textural foundation for a classic New York Sour! A solid budget wine for a night in with your fellow troublemakers as well - though we highly encourage any trouble made under the influence of this delightful red to be responsible and, well, none of the actual 19 crimes… or any other for that matter.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Where to Find: £8.49

La P'tite Pierre Rouge

Want to talk about unbeatable prices? Want to talk about well rounded, autumnal delights bursting with citrus, spice n’ all things nice? Well, La P’tite Pierre have you covered! This fantastic blend of wines provides an inexpensive option for your cocktail, but one that will add plenty of depth and complexity. If you really want to emphasise the sour in your New York Sour, then this is the wine for you!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Where to Find: £7

Faustino VII Rioja

The grapes used to make this fine Spanish red are over 40 years old and - as is the case with any labour of love - the care and attention to detail shines through in this incredibly well balanced Rioja. The slight spice and vanilla notes that one might expect from a wine that’s been aged in oak for 10 months really shine here, and unsurprisingly make this an ideal candidate to float atop your expertly crafted New York Sour cocktail.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Where to Find: £8.75

The King's Wrath Pinot Noir

This rich, decadent offering from master New Zealand winemaker, Brent Marris, will not only make an ideal candidate for your New York Sour, but is an undeniably fantastic wine to sip on its own merits. In the production of this wine, vine stems are added to the fermentation which gives this wine the subtle, spiced complexities that make it the powerhouse it is. Alongside winter spices, you’ll find toasted oak and nuttiness galore. What are you waiting for?

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Where to Find: £15.99

The Ned Pinot Noir

If you like a little smoke in your New York Sour, then this is the perfect choice for you! This particularly juicy, savoury Pinot Noir from the Southern Valleys of New Zealand provides a fresh, delightful sipper that will make you want to finish the bottle after you’ve enjoyed your cocktail! The grapes in this region ripen incredibly slowly, which contributes to their extra dense, berry-fruit flavours that can be found in wines from this region.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Where to Find: £14.99

La Fait Rouge 

Perhaps the most bold wine one might choose to top a New York Sour with, but a choice we stand by! Tannat wines are known for their full bodied, intense aromas and notes of liquorice, blackberry and allspice. This blend of Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinenc grapes offers all of that and more. The blending of these wines is an unmissable annual event in Saint Mont. Wines from this region are highly regarded as artisanal, historic bottlings in the global wine landscape. Some might suggest a wine like this is overkill for a New York Sour, but we say rules are meant to be broken! High end ingredients make for world-class cocktails after all.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Where to Find: £22.50 

Happy sipping!

If you read to the end of this article and find yourself asking, “what on Earth is Tannat wine?” then you should follow this link.

By Miley Kendrick

2024’s Must-Visit US Wine Event - Decanter Fine Wine Encounter NYC

Wine lovers, we have some exciting news to share! On Saturday June 8th, Decanter Fine Wine Encounter NYC is returning for its third consecutive year.

What is the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter?

In a nutshell, it is an impressive all day Grand Tasting in which 50 esteemed producers from around the world will present four exceptional wines from their collections. From Europe to South America, Australia to the USA there are an abundance of elegant and innovative wines waiting to be tried. That’s not all though, as whether it be a rare vintage, top cuvée, magnum or more, each producer will also be unveiling a special treat from their cellar providing a rare opportunity to enjoy some exceptional vintages. We’ve had a sneaky peek at the list and can confirm you are in for a big treat, but don’t only take our word for it, check it out here!

The Decanter World Wine Awards Winners’ Bar will also be open to Grand Ticket Holders. Featuring Gold, Platinum and Best in Show wines scoring 95 points and above in the Decanter World Wine Awards 2023, it is an excellent opportunity to sample even more of the top quality that is available in the wine world. You can see which award-winning bottles will be available this year here!

What happens at Decanter Fine Wine Encounter?

Aside from being able to sample wine from some of the world’s finest producers, Decanter Fine Wine Encounter also offers the chance to participate in exclusive masterclasses from Château Haut-Brion, Peter Michael Winery, M. Chapoutier and Marqués de Murrieta.

Where is the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter?

You can find Decanter Fine Wine Encounter at the Manhatta on Liberty Street, right in the heart of New York’s financial district. Doors open at 11am and close at 5pm.

If you want to enjoy some incredible wine whilst meeting the people behind your favourite bottles, get your hands on a ticket here and don’t forget to enter unique discount code DRINKLUSIVE24 at the checkout for 20% off. Happy sipping!

Which Wine Should I Drink Now and What Can I Keep?

Image credit: Will Wong

So many wines from around the world across price points - how do you pick your bottle or two, or even mix 3-6 with the seasonal and perpetual 25% off deals from supermarkets and High Street retailers? Do you buy wines weekly or keep some away for special occasions? With new wines appearing online and on the shelves all the time, how do you judge price vs quality and which wines are worth keeping? 

For the UK retail market, the average spend on a bottle of wine is between £5 - £6.99. Say on a bottle of £6 wine, only 89p is attributed to the wine itself after excise duty, VAT, packaging, logistics and retail margin. Whilst on a £10 and £20 bottle before discounting, the actual value for the wine itself rises to £2.64 and £6.98 respectively. In other words, you get more wine for your money as you spend more per bottle. That does not mean a £20 bottle of wine is necessarily three times ‘better value for money’ than a £10 one though!

There is also a myth that wines improve over time. Yes and no. Red, white and sparkling wines all have different lifespans. As a ballpark, if you paid under £12 (before discounting) for a bottle of wine, perhaps it is not worth extended keeping. There are always exceptions.

Climate change and market conditions (global wine production in 2023 dropped by 10% from the previous year) add pressure on winemakers and producers to release wines for early consumption. Not many of us have the storage space at home for a cellar, or the intention to invest in the services of commercial storage specialists. It is therefore not surprising to see one UK leading supermarket’s own brand range with ‘Storage: It is recommended that this wine be consumed within 1 year of purchase.’ on the back label. Having said all that, some ‘fine’ or even everyday wines will reward us through patience, and a few common sense storage criteria (see below).

The eight wines below are for illustrative purposes, across generic categories and vintages. Accepting each wine is unique, we hope to inspire you through some general principles, in getting the most enjoyment from each bottle now and well into the future.

Image credit: Will Wong

Rosé 

Most pink wines such as this Miraval Côtes de Provence are meant to be drunk young and fresh. Only keep your rosé in the fridge when ready to open. If stored correctly (see below), this could easily retain its crisp freshness for 2-3 years after purchase. Long gone is the perception that rosé is something you sip by the pool on holiday or only in the summer. Depending on individual wines, some rosé pair well with spicy food and the off-dry varieties stand up to fiery chilli. 

Non-Vintage (NV) Champagne or Sparkling Wines

As a very general rule, drink Prosecco within a year of purchase. On the other hand, NV champagne (those without a year on the label) and sparkling wines such as the Balfour Hush Heath Estate Leslie’s Reserve made in the traditional method with secondary in-bottle fermentation deliver more complex flavours and greater intensity, which may well develop further over 1-5 years if stored properly.

Cava made in the traditional method mostly in Catalunya, when unopened and stored properly, can generally last 1-2 years past the expiration date stated on the label. 

Reds to drink now

e.g. Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages, Chianti, Rioja Crianza or other Tempranillo-based wines, and most wines under £12.

Much depends on the grape (inherent acidity and level of tannins in the skin) and also winemaking style. In general, most reds keep longer than still whites due to the tannins (think the slightly bitter and leathery feel from a cup of strong black tea). Even the traditional tannic Bordeaux and Burgundy fine reds are now more approachable when opened relatively young (e.g. vintages 2017/18). 

Rioja (mostly Tempranillo) is a popular red from Spain. It has four ageing categories by law:

• Joven: typically young and fruity, with no minimum ageing requirements and are typically released in the year following the vintage (the year in which the grapes were harvested);

• Crianza: must be aged in oak barrels prior to release. These wines develop additional flavours such as vanilla, smoke and coconut;

• Reserva: such as the above M&S No.21 Lomas del Marques 2015, must be aged for extended periods of time before release, both in oak barrels and in-bottle. The flavours are usually more pronounced and complex than a Crianza. The M&S Reserva 2015 was released in 2021, with a drinking window to 2025; so it is probably peaking now;

• Gran Reserva: subject to the highest minimum ageing requirements and are reflected in their higher prices.

Due to the above ageing requirements, mature Spanish reds are often great value for money when released in the UK, if you prefer wines with greater depth and texture without having to wait another 5-10 years!

Below, we will show you a fine red that is worth keeping.

Whites to drink now

e.g. Pinot Grigio, Viognier / Condrieu, Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, Vinho Verde, Albariño and other Galician whites; and most whites under £12.

In recent years, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough have become the Darling Buds of May, or anytime anywhere. When young, they have that zesty acidity, grassy and asparagus nose with a lemony and sometimes flinty palate. It is rarely marketed as an age-worthy white, unlike the fine whites (chardonnay) from Burgundy such as Chablis Grand Cru or Puligny-Montrachet. 

The above Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is regarded as one of the finest from Marlborough with a premium price tag. It is expected to keep up to five years. Nothing is absolute for wine. Far from being over the hill, a bottle of Yealands Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2019 from Awatere Valley, Marlborough at less than half the price of the Cloudy Bay was still robust with fresh acidity and a long mineral finish when opened in April 2024. 

We now turn our attention to four categories of wine you might like to keep, if you could resist the temptation.

Image credit: Will Wong

Fine Reds

e.g. most above £12 - Pinot Noir/Red Burgundy, Sangiovese such as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, Grenache/Garnacha, southern Rhône reds such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Shiraz/Syrah and northern Rhône reds such as Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, Merlot - Right-Bank Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon - Left-Bank Bordeaux, and Nebbiolo - Barolo & Barbaresco. 

The Penfolds Max’s Shiraz 2020 from Adelaide Hills, South Australia was released in 2022; retaining black fruit concentration with high acidity and firm tannins at a whopping 14.5% ABV. These elements together provide the in-bottle conditions to help the tannins soften over time, and develop further complexity till 2031. Of course you can open and drink it now, and it is probably more accessible than its Northern Rhône counterparts (Côte-Rôtie & Hermitage). Given Penfolds’ suggested drinking window, this fine Shiraz is still a baby that needs time to calm down. 

Fine Whites

e.g. most above £12 - Rhône whites such as Hermitage Blanc, Chablis, Chardonnay, white Burgundy, Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc, Semillon, Riesling. 

Less famous than Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, and not the most widely grown; Riesling is often hailed as the noble grape by wine professionals, but not consumers who often associate it with German sweet wines with low alcohol. Occasional indecipherable labels in only German do not help either. 

Unlike Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling is renowned for its capacity to develop for years, even decades in bottle. As an aromatic grape varietal, Riesling does not need high alcohol to be made into a variety of wines from dry to off-dry, medium and sweet, and from light to full in body

Yet, if you were to taste a fruity and light Riesling from Mosel, Germany, usually between 8-10% ABV, side by side with a bone dry version at 13% ABV from the Clare or Eden Valley in South Australia, they could not be more different. Other fine Rieslings are also produced in Alsace and Austria; such as the Rabl Schenkenbichl Riesling Reserve 2018 (13% ABV) drinking to 2026 at least.

Vintage Champagne or Sparkling Wines

If you look closely at the above Hattingley Blanc de Blancs 2014 from Hampshire England, it clearly states ‘Traditional Method Brut’ Vintage 2014. In exceptional years, a portion of the best grapes are used to create a Vintage Champagne or Sparkling Wine. ‘Brut’ usually denotes dry due to the high acidity and lively dissolved bubbles in the wine. 

2014 was an exceptional year for some of the finest parcels of Hampshire Chardonnay that were used in creating this Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay). 13% of the wine was fermented in old oak barrels to add a creamy and toasty texture to the palate. Ageing on lees for over five years added further complexity. It was only disgorged in March 2020 and released in 2021. This costly and laborious winemaking method produces fine sparkling wine in small quantities commanding very high prices. 

High quality vintage champagne or sparkling wines should keep for 2-10 years after release, not the vintage year.

Sweet Wines

There are different styles of sweet wines such as the Canadian Icewine and German Eiswein made with frozen grapes. Other famous varieties such as Sauternes and the Hungarian Tokaji Aszú are made from ripe grapes affected by Botrytis (Noble Rot), a fungus that causes the water in the grapes to evaporate, resulting in high concentration of acids, sugars and flavours which are essential to produce premium sweet wines. 

This Disznókõ Tokaji Aszú 2017 is made mainly from Furmint, an indigenous Hungarian grape with natural high acidity very susceptible to botrytis. Tokaji Aszú spends a significant time ageing in oak, giving a balance of intense stone fruits (apricots), citrus fruits with vanilla and smoke, and aromas of dried fruit, caramel and nuts. The sweetness and full-body are balanced by high acidity with a long and intense finish. It is a treat with blue cheese, desserts, foie gras or on its own. The 2017 vintage will continue to develop complex flavours for up to 20 years in the bottle.

How should I store my wines?

Wine is a fragile living thing. Temperature fluctuations and strong direct light are combo killers; so a kitchen wine rack is definitely out. They need a consistent temperature, ideally around 13ºC but anywhere between 10-20ºC is acceptable; so avoid proximity to fireplaces or central heating radiators. 

Avoid placing your wines, especially sparkling wines near direct natural or artificial light.

With cork closure, it’s best to store the bottles on their side in a cool, dry and dark place. Screwcaps can be placed upright.

How long should I keep my wines?

Image credit: Will Wong

As you may have probably realised by now, this is a very difficult question besides the above general guidelines. With fine wines, it might be worth buying 3-12 wines of the same vintage if you have the space, patience and budget to open one periodically. This is a luxury and pleasure in being able to chart your favourite wine’s journey in your home.

Fortunately, help is at hand via a little annual wine bible: Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book (Ed. Margaret Rand) published since 1977. Besides the quick vintage charts as seen above, this little gem lists leading producers from Austria to Uruguay; with special emphasis on Bordeaux producers’ best vintages and their readiness to drink. It is indispensable as an up-to-date succinct reference source.

Last but not least, wines are to be drunk. More and more wines are now made to be consumed sooner rather than later. Having the patience and space to store wines properly is likely to be rewarded. But as Margaret Rand put it, some of these laid down wines might outlive you. It depends on how much you like your heirs.

By Will Wong

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Tesco May 2024

Tesco shoppers and wine lovers, listen up. The amazing bargain bottles this May are not to be missed, and you’ve got until the 20th May to get them. We’ve gone through every offer and narrowed it down to the best. Below are four stunning reds, four crisp whites and two sophisticated Rosés – all for under £10. Oh, be aware that you’ll need a Clubcard to take advantage of these brilliant bargains! Let’s go deal diving.

Tesco Red Wines May 2024

Don Carlo Nero D'avola

This Sicilian red is definitely worth picking up for under £10. It’s full bodied, brimming with violets, blackcurrant and rounded off by spice and vanilla. It achieves really impressive deep flavours without becoming too heavy and thick on the tongue. Intense.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £11)

Diablo Black Cabernet Sauvignon

This is another red, this time from the Maule Valley of Chile and aged in both French and American oak barrels. The results are full of personality with dark wood, tobacco and rich fruits layering up like a dream. Inky, deep and devilishly delicious.

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

Ramon Bilbao Rioja Crianza

We love Spanish Rioja when it’s done right, and this is masterful. It has a spicy, cosy autumnal feel with blackberries and baked plums a-plenty, backed up by plenty of cedary oak. Cherry and chocolate fill out the big body nicely.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8.75 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.75)

Apothic Merlot

This soaring Cali Merlot can divide opinion, but many great things do. It’s indulgent and jammy, with big buttery vanilla and sweet jam. In fact, it’s one of the sweetest Merlots in the supermarket, making it rich and filling. But we think it shows restraint where needed, adding spice for complexity. Give it a go!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (Clubcard Price) (usually £10.50)

Tesco Rosé Wines May 2024

Mud House Chile Sauvignon Blanc Rose

This is a really nice little Rosé, well balanced, crisp, and refreshing in nature. It has a lovely summery feel with a barrage of strawberry and citrus and interesting bitterness towards the end.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.50)

Crocodile Diamante Rose

This glamorous bottle hides a pale, crisp Southern Rhone Valley style Rosé. It’s a world away from in-your-face sweet fruits; rather, it’s delicate with a noticeably clean feel. Fresh floral tones and vibrant zippy acidity mean it it’s far from dull. Class in a glass.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £9.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £11.50)

Tesco White Wines May 2024

Diablo Golden Chardonnay White Wine

If you’re a fan of Chilean Chard then don’t miss this. It lures you in with some simple buttery notes but then comes a tropical flood with charred pineapple and interesting wet flint notes. It’s a bit all over the place, but it all comes together and the journey is interesting.

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

Villa Maria Earth Garden Organic Sauvignon Blanc

Benchmark Marlborough Sauvignon here. The texture stands out immediately, feeling heavy and full of elderflower, gooseberry, and ripe stone fruits. It’s so, so fresh and the minerality lingers bringing some edginess to proceedings. Great touch of salinity too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £10 (Clubcard Price) (usually £12)

Boschendal Sauvignon Blanc

Boschendal do some great work with conservation and biodiversity which is always a bonus when picking wines, but what’s inside has to be quality stuff too and this is. The cooler coastal vineyards bring expressive freshness to the lemon and lime citrus, but you also get the full range of Sauvignon notes with grapefruit tang, subtle nectarine, and tropical pineapple. It’s dry and minerally too so fantastic with shellfish. Top buy.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.75)

Other Great Discounts Worth Checking Out:

RED WINE:

Diablo Red Blend – Was £10.50 Now £8

19 Crimes The Uprising Red Wine – Was £11 Now £9.50

19 Crimes The Banished Dark Red  – Was £10.50 Now £8

B.Ink Red Blend Wine– Was £10 Now £8

WHITE WINE:

Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc – Was £10.50 Now £8

Yealands Sauvignon Blanc– Was £10 Now £7

ROSÉ WINE:

Maison Castel Rose D'anjou – Was £9 Now £8

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

6 Great British Rosé Wines to Try in Your Glass

The Great British wine revolution has been hitting the recent news headlines with increased popularity amongst wine lovers as more people discover that British wines actually taste good! Champagne houses such as Pommery and Taittinger have been in on the action too and are known to have purchased land in Hampshire and Kent, within Great Britain, as the British climate is also favourable for sparkling wines.

Similar grapes to those used in luxury champagne (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) are grown on UK soils and are now also used to make English sparkling wine via the traditional method, but at a fraction of the cost for those of us enjoying those bubbles at home. However, most of the attention has remained focused on those tasty sparkling and still British white wines, such as Bacchus, so we’re here to shine the spotlight on delightful British rosé wines… perfect for Great British Rosé Week, at any time during rosé wine season or indeed at any other time of the year - there’s no reason needed!

Rosé wines are typically made using the same winemaking processes as red wines but the main difference is that the red grape skins are only in contact for a few hours rather than the weeks taken for red wines, resulting in that light pink colour that we all know and love!  There are many British vineyards to discover for a summer’s day trip with a tour and wine tasting – some vineyards might also offer accommodation if you wish to make a night out of it. In the meantime, let’s dive in to some British Rosé to tease your taste buds!

Halfpenny Green English Rosé 2022

With 30 years of farming divided amongst a family involved with the Halfpenny Estate and with south western facing slopes within the Severn Valley in South Staffordshire, this Rosé has that fashionable Provençal hue but packs in the fruitiness. There is a pronounced intensity of strawberries and stone fruits with a zesty contrast providing that refreshing taste that would be ideal for a trip to a summer’s meadow. As it is an off dry rosé wine blend with a hint of minerality, this Rosé will pair nicely with some cheese, crackers and light Mediterranean style salads.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £12.25

Tuffon Hall Beatrice Pinot Noir Rosé 2022

Beatrice is the name of the winemakers’ second daughter and therefore this is a very personal touch felt with this Tuffon Hall rosé, from North Essex, that bears her name. With four and a half generations working on this estate’s land, there is a genuine sense of the labour of love that pervades this wine. The land itself can be detected in the wine with an earthy smell balancing out the strawberries, raspberries and cherry in this medium bodied Pinot Noir rosé. This dry, tart but elegant award winning rosé will be one to share with friends, if you feel so inclined!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £16.99

Hattingley Valley Still Rosé 2022 

This Hampshire based Pinot Noir Rosé has been winning a plethora of awards such as the Best Still Rosé with good reason! It is served with a screwcap, with a bright pink hue and whilst it is light to drink that does not mean that its moreish strawberries and cranberries fruit flavour are not appreciated in providing that enhancement to its light intensity with a subtle, dry finish and tangy bite. This Rosé will complement seasoned fish dishes well.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £20

Simpsons Estate Railway Hill Rosé 2022

From the North Downs of Kent, the Simpsons Estate was established in 2014 and its chalk soil forms part of the same chalk ridge that is located between Southern England and Champagne, in France, and even stretches as far as to Burgundy! It is therefore not surprising that this Rosé from their Railway Hill vineyard was a silver winner of the International Wine Challenge in 2020. This Pinot Noir Rosé is a slightly deeper pink than a Provençal style rosé but the bouquet of summer fruits is enticing on the nose. With a pronounced intensity of strawberries and cream with citrus to provide that refreshing, crisp texture this is a juicy Rosé that could be enjoyed alongside a packet of salted crisps!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £20

Denbies Rose Hill Rosé

Denbies has become the UK’s first vineyard and winery to achieve Net Zero status in wine production as part of its sustainability efforts. You can therefore visit this Surrey vineyard knowing that it is carbon positive and intentional about reducing its carbon footprint. Plus, this fruity Rosé is a balanced blend of Dornfelder and Pinot Noir grapes from the vineyard which highlights the natural sweetness. It is an easy drinking, off-dry rosé to drink for apéro hour with its full flavour, medium bodied, smooth texture and that added citrus hint. For a full weekend visit, you could combine your Denbies wine tasting experience with some cycling in nearby Box Hill!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £11.99

Oastbrook Rosé 2022

Being described as similar to a cult winery in the Vines in a Cold Climate book, which discusses the English wine revolution, the Oastbrook Estate’s reputation precedes it! It is a Sussex based vineyard, which is an area that recently received Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, and is close to the river Rother and within easy reach of British beaches on which to enjoy this late harvest succulent Rosé! The estate does have onsite accommodation too such as lodges and glamping, if you book quickly, meaning that you could be served this rich balanced rosé directly to your own private space. Slightly pink orange in colour with strawberry, melon, citrus and stone fruits aromas, this is an extremely palatable off-dry Rosé wine which can be drunk by itself and conjures up images of strawberries and cream and Wimbledon! Plus, having the bottle number on its label, from this small production, does make purchasing this Rosé seem like an extra special treat and you’re worth it!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £18.50

You can’t say that we’re not generous as we have an extra treat, which does make this the lucky 7 recommendations! But, if you haven’t tried a Mirabeau wine before then it is definitely worth adding to your shopping lists! Technically, it’s not a British wine as it is grown in Provence but the owners of the estate are English winemakers who moved their family to France to set up their winery and fulfil their dream of making good quality rosé. So, without further ado, let’s explore a glass of Mirabeau…

Mirabeau X Côtes de Provence Rosé 2022

This quintessential Provençal salmon pink rosé blend, from the area that is north of Aix-en-Provence, is designed to impress with its delicate profile. It is a well-rounded vegan friendly Rosé, with a light intensity which becomes more profound over time to reveal crisp, fruit forward aromas combining strawberries, grapefruit, stone fruits and a degree of minerality with a long finish. It is a very quaffable, sophisticated and stunning wine which will be perfect for those lunchtime occasions at work or play or for those moments when you catch yourself daydreaming and imagining that you are by the French riviera!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £13

Rosé can truly be drunk at any time of year and gone are the days when you might only see a Pinot Grigio Blush or White Zinfandel on pub and restaurant menus, thankfully! What is your go to glass of rosé? We would love to find out your preferences and whether you now feel inspired to traverse the British countryside on a Rosé journey!

By Latoya Austin

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!