10 Amazing Drinks to Celebrate Pride 2023 and Beyond!

Whoop whoop! Pride Month is here! Now, whilst there are a tonne of companies plastering rainbows on drinks, we want to shout out those that have been going the extra mile and those that have been there from the start. This is how you toast Pride in style...

GIN

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin

Fresh from sunny Seville comes Puerto de Indias with their naturally flavoured Strawberry Gin. They’re one of the main brands flying the flag for not only Pride but Spanish gin also, becoming a worldwide name. Rather than being a limited run for Pride, this is an unlimited edition, flying the rainbow flag 365 days a year!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £26.63

Spirit of Stonewall Gin

We love giving Stonewall a shout-out because they do so much for the LGBTQIA+ community all year round. Family run from Skegness, their retelling of the Stonewall Riots history weaved throughout their branding as well as donating £1 from every bottle all year is what we like to see. Oh, and did we mention their gins are delicious too?! This London Dry is so well put together with juniper-forward elegance, supported by cardamom, orange, liquorice, tangy coastal berries, and buckthorn.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38

VODKA

Crystal Head Pride Edition

Without a doubt the most theatrical bottle on the market, this is Crystal Head’s Pride edition. As well as being its own rainbow painted décor piece, part of the sales also goes to the Kaleidoscope Trust which does great work human rights work across the world. Inside the skull you’ll find four times distilled Canadian corn vodka using pure local waters and Herkimer diamond filtration. The complete package.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £48.49 // US $39.99

Absolut Rainbow 2.0

Absolut have long been involved in Pride, and this year they’re celebrating the ‘families you choose’ – the people we share our lives with who often play pivotal and supporting roles in LGBTQ+ journeys. The striking rainbow bottle is a permanent part of the Absolut collection showcasing their original vodka which also picked up huge praise against much more expensive rivals at recent Vodka Awards.

Size: UK 700ml // US 1L
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £19.95 // US $26.98

WHISKEY

Still Austin Whiskey Company

One for our American readers, Still Austin Whiskey Co hold a Pride pop up each year in association with the Austin Flea LGBTQ market. The event not only offers up incredible whiskey cocktails, but also supports over 30 local businesses in a day of shopping, fundraising, drinking, and partying. Their beautifully packaged offerings include Straight Bourbon, Straight rye whiskey, Cask Strength Bourbon and even an American Gin!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 49.2%
Find here: $46.99

WINE

Digby Fine English

Jason Humphries and Trevor Clough were exploring Seattle wineries when they decided to return to the UK and bring English fizz to the luxury market. Years later and Digby is one of the finest examples of English bubbles around, outperforming Champagne in blind tastings. What better way to raise a glass to diversity?

Size: 500ml
ABV: Various
Find here: From £35

Madame F

Madame F is a creative collaboration with Queer Britain who are a charity organisation aiming to create the UK’s first national LGBTQ+ museum. The entire collections are inspired by the community they represent, full of pride, passion, and pizazz. We want to shout out their Rosé this time, which is stunningly fresh, light, and juicy.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £9

CANNED DRINKS

LUV JUS

Inspired by the magic of Tel Aviv Pride 2016, George and Owen went from housemates to business partners by launching this healthy vodka craft-pop. The Great Taste awards have already lauded them for their natural, healthy vegan-friendly and gluten-free expressions, of which there are three! Pineapple, mint, jasmine and Korean ginseng, as well as blood orange, pomegranate and Korean ginseng both with a splash of vodka, and finally, raspberry, cucumber, lime, Korean ginseng and gin!

Size: 150ml
ABV: 4.6%-4.8%
Find here: 6 for £14.95

BEER

PROUD

Simply put, every time you choose PROUD, 20p goes to an LGBTQI+ charity partner, raising over £20,000 so far. Bravo! A dedicated beer brand to support charities all year long rather than, “slapping a rainbow flag on their brand once a year and pretending they cared” as founders Ethan and Sören put it. PROUD LGBTQIPA is a charming citrus and elderflower IPA that tastes stunningly fresh and dreamy, and if you want more cases of gems like this you can join their Loyal Hunny group to get top-notch discounts.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.1%
Find here: £28 for 12

COCKTAILS

Tom Savano

Tom Savano cocktails do some really great work, not just in the masterful creation of their artisanal small-batch cocktails, but also in organic sourcing, Fairtrade ingredients and this Cosmopolitan Pride mix. Not only does the cocktail have its roots in the 1980s Cleveland gay scene, but it also starts Tom of Finland Organic Vodka, which is named after the gay icon and artist. Chill it and it’s ready to go!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £27

Want some ready-to-drink cocktails to celebrate more? Check out our favourites here!

Father's Day Gifts for Drinks Lovers

Sunday 18th June is Father’s Day, but don’t panic if that’s caught you off guard! We’ve pulled together a list of our favourite drinks and gifts that we think are perfect for Father’s Day gifting.

There’s something here for every budget and every drink, so there’s really no excuse to be turning up on the big day with socks as a present again (unless they’re protecting one of these delicious bottles from getting damaged that is!). Let’s get stuck in.

WHISKY

The Three Drinkers Limited Edition Red Silkie

If we can be so bold, we absolutely love our collaboration creation and think that whether your Dad is new to whiskey or a seasoned sipper, they will too. We’ve teamed up with the fantastic Sliabh Liag Distillers to produce Red Silkie, an Irish Whiskey that showcases the classic subtle and smoky style alongside classic fruitiness coming from our obsession with fine wine. Over in County Donegal, the blend is finished in red Pomerol barrels from Clos L’Eglise in Bordeaux creating a velvety, rich profile that is intense with red fruits, candied orange and gently smoked caramel. One last thing, £1 from every purchase goes towards the amazing mental health charity My Black Dog to support a variety of initiatives including free support for those struggling, so it’s for a good cause too!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £49.99

Old Perth Original

A tribute to Perth in Scotland, this sweet Blended Malt Scotch is rich with raisins from ex-sherry cask ageing. The Christmas cake nose gives way to a buttery palate of a super comforting expression that provides a drinking experience far beyond its price point.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £36.75

Lochlea Our Barley

This Single Malt from Lochlea is matured in ex-bourbon and ex-Oloroso sherry casks, but also re-charred barriques for a pleasantly rounded smooth and fruity character. It carries complexity beyond its years, masterful smoothness and a light vibrance plush with honied orange, grassy malt, peppery barley, and toasted oak. And let’s not forget a rather lovely bottle perfect for gifting too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £44.95

GIN

Audemus Pink Pepper Gin

Any of you who have tuned in to The Three Drinkers in Cognac will know how much we love Audemus. Pure innovation, Audemus’ most famous creation is this, their incredible Pink Pepper Gin. Spicy pink peppercorns lead the botanical line with cardamom and juniper, followed by baking notes of tonka and vanilla, and a more floral side with tonic. There’s a touch of warmth, florality, spice and fruitiness to this well-rounded gin that really has that special feeling in bucketloads. A must-try for any gin loving Dad.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £38

Atlas Shichimi Gin

Atlas has established a stellar reputation for exotic gins, and if you’re familiar with Japanese cooking, you might recognise shichimi as the popular spice blend used in Japan for centuries. This unusual but moreish umami profile is expanded with nori seaweed, gyokuro green tea, Sichuan peppercorn and ginger, with juniper and citrus injecting some familiar freshness. Wonderfully aromatic and warming, this is an exciting gin to try!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £48

RUM

Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva

This silky molasses-based Venezuelan blend uses exclusive rum reserves aged for up to 12 years before they come to rest in their charming vintage-style bottle. The mouthfeel will likely remind you of wine with a similar viscosity, with blossoming notes of toffee, orange chocolate and liquorice before an indulgent fudgy finish. Treat your Dad to the Gold Medal winner of the 2019 Rum Masters.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £40.95 // US $41.99

Sansho Spiced Rum

Completely eye-catching, this stand-out spirit dresses premium English rum in Japanese flavours. The rum is packed full of vibrant and rich layers; the sansho berries provide tongue tingling peppery citrus notes, the base rum made with 100% sugar cane molasses gives a Christmas cake sweetness, the Okinawan sugar provides rich treacly layers and there is smoky soy and sesame which gives the usual tobacco and oak flavours you would expect to find in an aged rum. It is absolutely exquisite and sings with a good ginger beer and ice.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £38

VODKA

Blacklion Vodka

How about Europe’s first sheep’s milk vodka for Father’s Day? After tasting a sip, you might wonder why it hasn’t been done before (the awards panels certainly are!). Unbelievably smooth, the sugars-rich whey left over from the cheesemaking process is triple-distilled and triple-filtered to produce this rare, visionary, small-batch, and eco-conscious British vodka.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £6

Dimas Vodka

If you’ve never heard of Dima’s Vodka before then allow us the pleasure of introducing, you. Hailing from Ukraine, this multi-grain mix (wheat, rye, and barley) is brimming with spice and creamy character. To complete the experience, drink alongside pickles as is the tradition!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35

TEQUILA/MEZCAL

Ilegal Joven Mezcal

Illegal’s mezcal portfolio is stunning and we could really recommend any of them, but we’ve picked out this young Joven Mezcal. Traditionally produced with roasted agave in an earthen pit, delicious notes of dried fruits and herbs come through as well as smoky, peppery agave and some caramel sweetness. The perfect present for a tequila-loving Dad who wants to dip into the underappreciated world of mezcal!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £49.99 // US $36.99

Don Julio Tequila Blanco

When perusing quality agave concoctions, you’re never far from Don Julio. Their Blanco is bottled (and stylishly so) straight after distillation meaning it’s packed full of fresh agave flavour. There’s a subtle burst of bright citrus but overall, this is just a stunning Blanco that doesn’t shy away from agave and is one of the smoothest around.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: UK £49.99 // US $49.99

COGNAC

Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal

If your Dad is a cognac drinker then you’re in luck, because with The Three Drinkers in Cognac available to watch now on Amazon Prime, we are obsessed with the stuff. The ever-reliable Rémy Martin produced this delicious VSOP to celebrate Louis XV’S decision to let them plant new vines on their land back in 1738 (which was illegal at the time). Complex fruits swirl around with orange coming to the fore, as caramel and spice intertwine harmoniously – if that doesn’t sound delicious, I don’t know what does.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £55.74 // US $69.99

Courvoisier VSOP

The winner of the highly regarded Master award in the Super Premium category at the Luxury Masters, this VSOP from the iconic Courvoisier has aged for around 10 years (which is well beyond the legal minimum). The fruity citrus is deep and rich, but it’s the warm notes of coffee, brown sugar, buttery toast, cinnamon, and vanilla that stand out here.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £36.95 // US $45.99

Hermitage 10 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac

Hermitage is notable for doing things a little differently from most cognac houses, in that each of their bottles including this 10-year-old are single-estate and unblended. Most cognacs use eaux-de-vie from different growing areas, but sticking to one estate creates a bold and expressive mix. The roasted nuts have come through with age, as has the peppery spice and oakiness. This is the perfect present for someone who likes to take their time and sip their cognac neat.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £59.95

SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT

Grand Marnier Cuvee Louis Alexandre

Grand Marnier is another legendary creation from the cognac region, and it is in fact half cognac itself. The other half is bitter orange, and the expert blending of the two (which you can witness in our new show… hint hint ;) ) is what makes this a bartender’s favourite. Their Louis Alexandre is a little less sweet and instead drier than the original as it is in fact not a 50:50 mix but goes heavier on the cognac instead... a nod to Louis himself who liked his serve a little stronger. Pure luxury.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £48.99 // US $69.99

Aphro Palm

If you want to try something completely new, look no further. Aphro is made using alcohol distilled from Palm Wine (from Palm tree trunks). This Palm Spirit is widespread across parts of West Africa, and Aphro wants to refine it for us all to enjoy. Triple distilled, it’s wonderfully smooth and infused with tropical fruits, herbs, and spices from all over the continent. ‘The Nubi’ is flavoured with pineapple, passion fruit and honey, and ‘The Moor’ is ginger xylopia Ethiopia (fruit tree) and honey. With such gorgeous bottling too, Aphro is perfect for the curious drinker.

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

BEST MIXERS

Franklin and Sons

Franklin and Sons are absolute pioneers of the soft drinks space, ever since their beginnings in Victorian London. They specialise in natural and innovative flavourings with tonics, mixers, and soft drinks to suit all kinds of serves. It’s totally worth checking out their full range here, but we really recommend their warm Original Ginger Ale, sunny Sicilian Lemon, and aromatic Natural Rose Lemonade. We use them all the time and boy can they elevate a drink to that next level.

Size: 200ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £20 24x200ml

AMAZING GLASSWARE

Glencairn Dad’s Wee Whisky Bundle

If your Dad loves whisky, then Father’s Day may well be the perfect opportunity to fit him out with some premium glassware to enhance the drinking experience. We use the Glencairn glass not just for whisky but cognac too because it opens up the nuances in quality liquids and feels great – it’s the world’s favourite whisky glass for a reason.

Includes: Two Wee Glencairn Glasses, a Wee Glencairn Jug and a Glencairn pipette
Find here: £35 (usually more!)

If your Dad prefers Dark Rums, then we just happen to have released our 2023 Guide here with top notch recommendations!

Which Mixer Goes Best with Cognac?

There are plenty of different ways to enjoy cognac, and The Three Drinkers in Cognac takes us through many of them. This special liquid works so well in many a cocktail (which you can explore here), but what about a super simple cognac and mixer serve?

Well, absolutely! And you can even emphasise which cognac flavours you want to bring out depending on your preference. Let’s waste no more time as we get stuck into the mixers that go best with cognac…

Ginger Ale – for a spicy serve

Outside of tonic, ginger ale is probably the most popular mixer with cognac, certainly in France, which is why Helena and Aidy serve it to win Eddy round in Episode One! All of the time cognac spends in French oak, it matures and absorbs spice which a good ginger ale enunciates. Not only is ginger ale soul-warming, but it’s also refreshing with light bubbles and gentle sweetness complementing the fruity richness of the cognac so well. Franklin & Sons’ natural Ginger Ale is perfectly poised for the job.

Citrus Tonic – for a light citrus serve

A prime example of this is the Courvoisier Gala served in the first episode of the series. The delicate nature of a citrus tonic gives the notes in your cognac of choice room to breathe, but also brings a fresh burst of citrus that adds vibrance and refreshment. Where the ginger ale emphasises the spice, a premium citrus tonic brings out the citrus – simple mixology. We prefer lemon to lime, so brimming with natural sunny flavours, Franklin & Sons Sicilian Lemon is absolutely perfect.

Lemonade – for a sweet citrus serve

For a sweeter, more intensely flavoured citrus twist, a good quality lemonade makes a delicious pairing with VS and VSOP cognac. The citrus in the cognac is emphasized, the effervescence is refreshing and if you use a premium lemonade like this 1886 Original Lemonade, it won’t be cloying at all and will instead carry some tartness and tang to fill out the fruity flavour.

Tonic Water – for a nuanced serve

Similar to when served over ice, cognac and tonic is a traditional choice and one that shines the spotlight fully on the cognac. Particularly with XO bottles and older, a gentle and crisp tonic lets the complexity flourish and allows those notes to open up. Depending on the specific cognac blend, you’ll find that previously undetectable fruity, floral and spicy aromas will show themselves after even just a drop of water. Try Franklin & Sons’ Premium Light Tonic, or for a more Mediterranean vibe. their Mallorcan Tonic

Cola – for a sweet serve

Cola and cognac were unsurprisingly, not a popular choice for the traditional cognac drinker, but when hip-hop helped to rejuvenate the drink in the 1990s, that all changed. Younger drinkers, particularly in America began mixing the two and whilst it will be too sweet for some, don’t discount it! The oak, vanilla and caramel from the cognac marry the sweet fizzy cola wonderfully and actually enhance the floral essences too. A glass of VS Cognac, cola, ice, and lime is full of fizzy flavour and works surprisingly well.

Pineapple juice – for a tropical serve

A mixer that also became popular when the worlds of hip-hop and cognac collided, pineapple juice is another sweet alternative that adds some juicy body, as well as sunny tropical vibes. The smooth, oaky, rich fruits from the cognac provide the bold depth, and the pineapple provides lighter, summery sweetness. This can easily be adapted into a Sour style drink but then we’re getting into cocktail territory!

For slightly more complicated (but still pretty simple) concoctions, check out the Best Cognac Cocktails here!

If you’re into rum instead, then explore the perfect mixers for a fellow historic spirit here.

The Best Dark ‘n Stormy Variations

As iconic waterside cocktails go, the Dark ‘n Stormy is right up there. Invented in the 1920s by British sailors looking for a tipple to help with seasickness, it soon became apparent that it was popular with everyone and not just those struggling in the choppy waters.

Goslings Black Seal rum and Barritt’s Ginger Beer were the original combination, and unlike most cocktails, this matters. Goslings have actually trademarked the Dark ‘n Stormy (with one apostrophe) and taken legal action against companies in the past.

These days, Goslings use their own Ginger Beer creation too, but if Goslings Black Seal isn’t the rum in your Dark n’ Stormy, then it isn’t technically one at all!

Now of course, when it comes to mixology at home, you can do whatever you like! Baring that in mind, let’s take a look at the best ways to switch up this classic!

The Original Dark n’ Stormy– for the traditionalists

Dark rum and ginger are the two key ingredients here, but many add a dash of lime for a bit of zip. It’s so fresh and vibrant with the sweet and warming spice intertwining gorgeously with thick, caramelly rum. Such a vivid tropical flavour that will transport you away to sunnier climes.

Ingredients
50ml dark rum (Goslings Black Seal)
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!  

Sunny ‘n’ Stormy – for the orange lovers

Similar to a Moscow Mule, this just adds a little orange sun to the original. Angostura bitters give a bit more intensity and marmalade notes to the cocktail as well as a touch more spice, and freshly squeezed orange juice and zest adds fresh citrus to the equation.

Ingredients
45ml dark rum
60ml ginger beer
20ml orange juice/zest
Dash of angostura bitters
Orange wedge (garnish)

Method
Shake dark rum and orange juice with ice and strain into your glass. Top up with ginger beer and add a few dashes of Angostura bitters and orange zest on top! 

Dark ‘n’ Stormy Orchard – for the cider lovers

This a fantastic autumnal twist on the tropical Dark ‘n’ Stormy. The ginger, cinnamon and spiced rum bring satisfying warmness and comforting flavours that match perfectly with the hearty apple cider. The thick and gently fizzy texture is also super moreish.

Ingredients
45ml dark spiced rum
50m apple cider
20ml ginger beer
Apple slices (garnish)
Cinnamon stick (garnish)

Method
Add your cider and rum to a glass, top up with a small pour of ginger beer and garnish with apple and cinnamon! For a touch of sweetness, add apple juice too!

Dark ‘n’ Stormy Espresso– for the coffee lovers

Coffee is such a versatile and intense taste that even just adding a little is a surefire way to mix up your favourite cocktail. Whilst the original has a kick, this takes it one step further with warm spice and bitter, earthy espresso livening up the cocktail.

Ingredients
30ml dark rum
25ml espresso
50ml ginger beer
Lime juice (optional)

Method
Pour your ingredients into your glass in layers. So, dark rum first over ice, then ginger beer, and then slowly pour in the freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy!

Stormy Weather – for the wine lovers

Wine, particularly Shiraz, works surprisingly well in the Dark & Stormy set-up. Similar to The Bishop cocktail, the rum brings the caramelly depth of tropical notes, whilst the Shiraz brings loftier sweet red fruits. Often already arriving with subtle peppery spice, Shiraz complements the ginger to create a rich, fruity and vibrant cocktail.

 Ingredients
35ml dark rum
35ml Shiraz wine
Splash of ginger beer
10ml syrup
Lime juice

Method
Shake well with ice because it’s important everything is thoroughly mixed here. Strain, top up with ginger beer and away you go!

Need a dark rum to star in your Dark ‘n’ Stormy variations? Check out these gems for under £30!

The Best Dark Rums to Try in 2023

With dark rum on the rise, the amount of choice is overwhelming. There are all kinds of rums, made in different ways and priced at different levels. The dark rum that you fall in love with is of course impossible to predict, but these are some reliably delicious bottles we love to begin your search. And if you already love the Pirate’s Drink and fancy a new go-to, you might just find your new favourite below too.

£15-25

Watson's Trawler Rum

In case you hadn’t already guessed from the name or bottle, this tawny red Dominican rum is in the dark Navy style, using aged spirits from Barbados and Guyana which are blended harmoniously in the UK. A treasure chest of flavours, expect candied orange zest, raisins and prunes, smoky oak, molasses, and toasted sugar. At this price, it’s perfect with just a splash of cola and lime but would also make a stunning Rum Old Fashioned.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £19.09

Havana Club Añejo Especial

A Cuban staple on UK supermarket shelves, Havana is a reliable benchmark for most rums, and their Añejo Especial is no different. Like other Cuban rums, it is light for a darker rum, with delicious soft caramel, spiced oak, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla cream to be enjoyed in a dessert-esque palate. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, mellow and easy-drinking dark rum then look no further. Sip straight or try this in a tasty Mai Tai.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £19.74

O.V.D. Demerara Rum

O.V.D? It stands for Old Vatted Demerara. So yeah, this is Old Vatted Demerara Demerara Rum but that’s not the only reason it’s memorable. Distilled from molasses in a wooden still in Guyana, it is eventually bottled in Glasgow and it’s in the UK that it has developed somewhat of a cult following. Renowned for a modern profile of rich toffee, sultana, buttery caramel, the thick and syrupy mouthfeel is to die for. Keep to cola mixes and mellower cocktails and you really cannot go wrong.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £23.24

£25-£35

Appleton Estate 8 Year Old Reserve

Appleton needed something special to celebrate their 250th birthday and this sweet and velvety smooth rum was the perfect present for themselves and us. Aged for 8 years in Jamaica, the warm spices, honey, and toffee marry together in precise harmony and it scooped Gold at the prestigious San Francisco Spirit Awards. We think this is made for sipping neat but there is no doubting how much it would elevate something like a Dark n Stormy.

Size: UK 700m/ UK 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £29.94 / $32.99

Alnwick Rum

Alnwick is an in-your-face dark rum with a big kick of spice. The recipe goes way back to Northumberland over 90 years ago, and currently uses a blend of rums from Jamaica and Guyana, combined in Holland and bottled in Scotland – what a journey. Gloriously rich with caramel, woody vanilla, Demerara notes and dried raisins, this is a lip-smacking liquid comparable to stronger Navy rums that will add great intensity to any rum cocktail.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £31.24

£35-45

Ron Abuelo 12 Year Old

This Panamanian Rum is finished in whiskey barrels to impart a distinct vanilla sweetness and subtle smoke. The astounding toasted elegance, sugary spice and rich creaminess won it a Gold gong at the 2009 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition, so try for yourself and see what all the fuss is about.

Size: UK 700ml/US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.94 / $39.99

Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva

One of the region’s best-known brands, Diplomático is known for its unique mixes of distillation methods, and their Reserva Exclusiva is made using copper pot stills – the process allocated to their most complex rums. The molasses-based rum matures in whiskey barrels to fill out with oaky vanilla spice, peppery plum and Christmas cake reminiscence. Award-winning, super classy and gorgeous instead of whiskey in a Manhattan.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £40.95 / $41.99

Copeland Smugglers Reserve Overproof Rum

If it’s not the brooding beautiful design that catches your eye, then it might just be the 57.2%. Copeland, known for their gin, have released this double pot distilled number which rests in bourbon and Pinot Noir casks. The result is deep and dark depths of burnt caramel, vanilla orange intertwining in a flavour that is definitely intense, so you pour over a little ice, orange peel and a subtle mixer of your choice. When you’re in the mood for this, it’s a dream.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 57.2%
Find here: £44.95

£45+

Angostura 15 Year Old "1787"

This is likely to be unlike any dark rum you’ve tried before. Moving away from the mellow, smooth, and spiced rum blends, this is old-school sea rum packed with molasses and spices. The liquid is so characterful, with a taste that reminds you of rum’s heritage. Charred oak with rich dried fruits marries cinnamon and crunchy sugar in a fantastic Trinidadian rum made for explorative sipping.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £67.99

Appleton Estate 21 Year Old

21 years of tropical maturation blesses the carefully selected blends that balance out this spectacular Jamaican rum. Scotch-like in its complexity, elegance and smoothness, warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon dance with leathery raisins (way more appealing than it initially sounds by the way) in a silky mix that feels thick and full. The special packaging sets you up for big expectations and the amber nectar within definitely exceeds them.

Size: UK 700ml /US 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £150 / $164.99

There are certain things that any fully fledged rum lover needs, so if you haven’t made your own dedicated home bar yet then check out these 7 Things Every Rum Lover Needs!

What Do the Letters on Cognac Bottles Mean, and Which Should I Try?

The labels on drinks are often confusing, especially to a newbie looking to explore a new liquor. It might seem like a small thing, but browsing the supermarket shelves and seeing all kinds of new words, terms and acronyms can be overwhelming enough to put people off all together. After all, if you’re spending a good chunk of change on something, you want to know what it is! So, without further ado…

What do the letters on Cognac bottles mean?

The letters on Cognac bottles are age statements, with each set of letters setting a minimum age for the Cognac.

Now, Cognac will include different blends, so this only sets a minimum age for the youngest blend meaning most of the liquid may actually be older. Let’s go through the letters you will most commonly come across.

Firstly, there are VS and VSOP bottles, most regularly used in Cognac cocktails like those listed in our Beginner’s Guide, and shown throughout The Three Drinkers in Cognac:

VS

This means Very Special, and the youngest Cognac will have been aged for at least two years. By the way, if you see three stars, this means the same thing!

Martell VS Single Distillery

This is a bold and intense 2017 Cognac that uses eau-de-vie from one distillery, rather than a selection as is the norm. The citrus zest gives way to juicer plum in one of the smoothest liquids at this price point.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £29.99

VSOP

This means Very Superior Old Pale and is a blend of barrels of which the youngest is at least four years old. If you see VO (Very Old) then this means the whole thing is four years old.

Courvoisier VSOP Cognac

This VSOP from iconic Courvoisier won the prestigious Master award for Super Premium VSOP at the Luxury Masters. It’s matured for between 8 and 12 years so well beyond the minimum requirements of a VSOP, and is sourced from the renowned Grand Champagne and Petite Champagne Cognac regions. Vanilla and citrus give great depth and the warmth is super soft and pleasant with touches of coffee, brown sugar, buttered toast, oakiness, and cinnamon.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £36.95 / US $45.99

Beyond this, you will find variations of older cognac that may include terms like ‘Napoleon’ which is unofficial but usually refers to an age of at least six years, and some Vintage bottles that will print a distillation date but not a bottling date. More common though are XO and XXO:

XO

This means Extra Old and the youngest Cognac in the blend must be 10 years old or above. Bear in mind that if you have XO from before April 2018, that minimum is dropped to 6 years because the rules tightened up recently!

Rémy Martin XO

A blend of Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, this is a quality Cognac masterfully produced by the historic Rémy Martin. Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard grapes are all used before 10 years of oak ageing. During this time, the grapes intertwine, and complex layers of oaky vanilla, caramel and spice are infused. It’s perfect for sipping with warm pastry notes to be explored alongside honied fruits and welcoming baking spice. Deliciously rich and smooth and many Cognac lovers’ go-to.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £163.99 / US $236.99

XXO

No prizes for guessing this one, it’s Extra Extra Old, using Cognac of at least 14 years of age.

Hennessy XXO Cognac

Head turner, collector’s bottle, whatever it is this is a very special XXO Cognac. The minimum for XXO is 14 years, but many of the blends in here are aged for much older, with some sat in French oak for more than 50 years. All that time results in so much richness with expressive notes of bitter orange, nutmeg, liquorice, subtle peppermint, and delicate spice. Complex, elegant and so refined, you could sit with this Cognac for hours.

Size: 1L
ABV: 40%
Find here: £520

There is another term that you’re likely to come across if you fall for Cognac as hard as we have and that’s Hors d’âge:

Hors d’âge

Outside of Age. This is a term assigned by Cognac’s governing body for liquids that are usually much older and want to distinguish themselves beyond the XXO minimum and display high quality. 

André Petit Hors d’Age Grande Reserve de Famille 1990 Cognac

As we say, Hors d’âge overlaps with other age statements so don’t think that this category is ‘better’ than the others. It’s all down to personal taste and how you plan to use the Cognac, so every category brings something to the party. This André Petit bottle is less intense and more mellow, with woody, earthier notes, and richer subtle fruits. The 3 decades of ageing, on top of traditionally old methods at the time, has created a distinctive style that’s longer in the mouth and so satisfying. A glass of sophistication indeed.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £147

As is the case with exploring most new drinks, it’s sensible to start in the mid-ranges. There’s no need to splash out on something you’ve never tried before, but at the same time, you don’t want to be burnt by a low-quality Cognac that puts you off it all together.

We suggest pulling together some of the simple cocktails in our Beginner’s Guide with a bottle of VS or VSOP Cognac, and then exploring some older sippers!

Bandra Bhai

London has an abundance of speakeasies. Yes there are a lot of great ones, but most seem to follow a similar style. If you are looking for a great speakeasy with a twist, then head to Fitzrovia - Bandra Bhai is the place to visit. This speakeasy is located beneath its sister restaurant - Pahli Hill. If you are able to get there early, it will be nice and quiet, but it definitely livens up later in the evening.

The bar is a tribute to the Indian smuggler’s dens in the 1970s, and has beautiful decor that fits the theme to a T. In the past these dens were often fronts, claiming to be photography studios or even sexologists. There are even some original signs as you come down the stairs for a sexologist clinic - all adding to the authenticity. 

The cocktail menu has just been updated and does not disappoint. Drinks are named simply after the main ingredient (such as date, mango, or pistachio) and are stunning interpretations of classic sips. One of our favourites was the date cocktail, mixing whiskey and dates and served almost theatrically covered with smoke. This drink is smooth and savoury - a perfect combo in our eyes.

A crowd (and bartender) favourite is the Mango. The drink is a blend of Desi Daru Mango vodka, lime, mango and yoghurt. Don’t stress, you won’t be given a drink with clumps of yoghurt. The yoghurt is clarified so that the liquid used in the cocktail is clear and creamy. This drink is delightful, the sweetness balanced by the creaminess. It almost reminds us of a scoop of mango sorbet. It is simply that good.

If you are peckish, then there are loads of traditional Indian snacks to choose from. The small plates are very generous, and one could easily fill up on them quickly. If you are not in the mood for a cocktail, then there is also an extensive wine list, as well as spirits to choose from.

Bandra Bhai is great for a date night, or celebratory drinks

Ambience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Range:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall: 8/10

Address: 79-81 Mortimer St, London W1W 7SJ

8 Must Try Savoury Gins

There can be no doubt that sweet and floral gins are dominant at the moment, but with gin’s popularity showing no signs of slowing, it’s savoury gin that distillers seem to be increasingly focusing on.

This far-reaching style swaps out the sweet citrus and berries for, well, savoury botanicals instead. Think saline, vegetal, herbal, and spicy notes! They make a refreshing difference from your usual fruity gins and are often some of the most unique tasting liquids out there, perfect for adding a new dimension to cocktails, or for savoury G&Ts! Without further ado, let’s dive into the best of them…

Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin

Opihr is the place where King Solomon bought his gold, silver, and spices from, and although no one knows where it was, it is linked to the ancient spice routes between East and West - it is this route that Opihir’s gins are inspired by. Scooping the top Master award at the 2018 Travel Retail Masters, this is a London Dry style gin with spicy twists. Moroccan coriander and Indian cardamom are pungent at the fore, but layers of punchy complexity are detectable with cumin (Turkey), angelica root (Germany), bitter orange (Spain) and peppery cubeb berries (Malaysia). Intense, spicy and with a loveable warm earthiness. You might find a sweet and citrusy mixer provides the perfect balance in a serving so try lemonade.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £27.74

An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin

Seaweed is a botanical we’re seeing more and more, and particularly in savoury gins of course. Irish Maritime makes use of not just one or two varieties, but five locally harvested seaweed species! Supporting these are a line-up of more familiar botanicals fronted by vegetal juniper for a touch of heat and lemon for some subtle sweetness. A true coastal delight that’s put together seriously well, try it with an elderflower tonic for a stonking savoury G&T.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43.2%
Find here: £30.94

Seven Hills VII Italian Gin

A Gold medal award winner at the Gin Masters in two different categories, Seven Hills is super light and delicate gin, that isn’t as juniper heavy as some but carries self-assured herbaceous freshness. Blood orange and pomegranate impart some tang, chamomile and rose hip the florality, and from the celery and artichoke botanicals, some vegetal notes. Like the best savoury gins, it’s super unique and we’d recommend trying this one in a Negroni... it only makes sense!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £34

Audemus Umami Gin

Based in Cognac, we just had to visit French producer Audemus during The Three Drinkers in Cognac because we’re such a fan of what Miko is doing (and we needed help with our own gin-making in the series!). Setting up shop in his front room, Audemus is all about experimentation and bold new flavours. Many distillations fail (e.g., trout eggs) but some turn out amazing, becoming part of flagship gins. The stunning (and actually lightly savoury in itself) Pink Pepper is their most famous creation, but their oak-finished Umami is the savoury headliner. Sicilian caper distillate, parmesan and juniper front a blend that rests in ex-Cognac casks for a fabulously rounded profile. Umami is one of our five basic tastes, so to have it stimulated by a gin with such distinct flavours really is a must-try experience.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £34.99

Portobello Road Savoury Gin

One of the most beautifully designed gins on the market, Portobello Road’s Savoury Gin is a Corsica-inspired dream. Pleasantly complex, it’s herbaceous with rosemary and basil, bergamot brings citrus tang, and green olives and sea salt bring punchy salinity. In a world of sweet and floral gins dominating, this style is actually more reminiscent of traditional juniper-led gin and as such, has an incredibly refreshing and moreish taste. It's screaming out for a Dirty Martini.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £36.24

Pollination Gin

This is a really interesting, award-winning London Dry style gin that features a diverse blend of 29 botanicals, each from the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, the area surrounding the Dyfi Distillery. Encompassing Snowdonia’s foothills, the Dyfi Forest and the estuary marshes, Pollination Gin punches with a bold herbaceous and floral profile, particularly the latter. Vivid images of summer meadows and pine forests come to mind with botanicals like wildflowers, aromatic leaves, dried fruits, almonds, conifer tips and beyond. If any gin will transport you into nature, it’s this.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 45%
Find here: £36.94

Black Tomato Gin

Roll up, roll up Bloody Mary fans. Tomato and vodka might be a more familiar combination, but how about tomato and gin? Produced in the Netherlands, homegrown organic black tomatoes are used with a few drops of sea water to create a completely distinct gin. There is satisfying richness to the fruit, sweet, sour and salinity are balanced perfectly, and the texture has a moreish viscosity and weight to it. Serve with Mediterranean tonic and some basil and prepare to surprise yourself.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42.3%
Find here: £37.94

Gin Mare

One of the better-known savoury gins, Gin Mare is in that position for good reason. Reminiscent of a Mediterranean summer, this heady herbaceous Spanish expression features rosemary, thyme, basil in an aromatic palate, heaps of citrus zest and tart juniper. Delicately poised salinity, citrus, herbs, and warming spice intertwine for a stunningly crisp gin that leaves you with a clean feeling aftertaste. So classy and elegant, just serve with a lightly flavoured premium tonic because each botanical is distinct and waiting to be explored with this gin. Super food-friendly too by the way!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42.7%
Find here: £39.99

Plenty of the Indian gins have a savoury feel to them, so if you like some earthy spice in your gin then check out The Best of Indian Gin & Spirits!