Is This Pumpkin Spice White Russian the Perfect Autumn Cocktail?

The dreamy combination of vodka, coffee liqueur and cream already have that chilly but indulgent feel to it that Autumn demands, but we can go one step further. We’ve got our eyes on the perfect Autumn cocktail, and surely this is it?

Pumpkin spice, most famous for taking over the world of lattés, is amazing in cocktails. If you’re not familiar with it, then it’s an American spice mix containing all those beautiful dark spices we associate with winter – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and occasionally allspice. You can add it into cocktail via pumpkin spice syrup, but for the White Russian, a creamer works best – you can make this yourself or buy a readymade mix.

The vodka provides a hearty structure to the cocktail, the coffee liqueur injects some lively sweetness, the creamer brings some beautifully aromatic spices, and then we have the cream creating an airy, luxurious texture. It’s heavy, indulgent and so, so comforting.

This seasonal spin is highly adaptable, hence why much of it is optional. If you’d like a stronger cocktail, you could easily add two shots of vodka without affecting the balance too much for starters. If you want more sweetness, then go for a pumpkin spice syrup (like Monin) over the creamer. The original White Russian includes heavy cream in the mix, so you could do that here for a richer feel or squirt some whipped cream on top – it’s all about your preference. Lastly, for garnishes you have so many options, but we suggest a cinnamon sprinkle for an inviting aesthetic, or even a cinnamon stick to slowly infuse the flavour.

Ingredients:
30ml vodka
30ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
30ml pumpkin spice creamer
10ml heavy cream (optional)
Whipped cream (optional) Cinnamon stick/sprinkle (optional)

Method:
Mix or shake everything together with ice before pouring over ice in a small glass. As mentioned, you could leave the creamy top as a snowy aesthetic, or sprinkle with some cinnamon – both look great.

Navigating Non-Alcoholic Drinks with Franklin & Sons

Globally, cocktail culture is in a magnificent place, with many bars having gorgeous menus listing many alcoholic and non-alcoholic concoctions. But, in reality, some of the non-alc options are... terrible. It can be so difficult when you want a night on the town with friends and loved ones to have a delicious drink when you aren't drinking alcohol. Too often, bartenders think they can slap a syrup and a soda together and create a "good enough" non-alcoholic option. What so many fail to realise is "good enough" is rarely that. Syrupy sodas can get exhausting, making it feel like a full night of sipping sugar. Even mocktail menus can rely too heavily on simple elements like a flavoured syrup to carry the entire drink through to the guest. For people who are choosing not to drink on a night out, drinks options can range from, at best, undeniably underwhelming to, at worst, a cloying cluster. With a few tips and a little ingenuity, however, navigating a non-alcoholic night out will be easier and yummier than it seems. Here’s how:

Craft sodas 

Some of the later ideas will take a little explaining, a little innovation, some luck, and a fair bit of social bravery to help the staff combine the ideal non-alcoholic drink. This first option, however, is easy. It's an incredible saving grace that simplifies everything if the establishment carries craft sodas. Craft soda brands are mixing up mocktails in a bottle. Obviously, craft sodas vary in quality and sweetness which will have to be navigated with caution. Franklin & Sons creates a range which encompasses all of the favourites like Dandelion & Burdock, Grapefruit, and Rhubarb Lemonade. Not only do they make delicious flavoured soda waters that could stand up to the best-selling global competitor, they also have beautifully made classic rich soda options. 

TOP-TIER: Franklin & Sons Peach & Mango 

Brand new to the UK market, this is flying off the shelves as the expression of these two flavours together is nothing short of harmonious. The Franklin & Sons craft sodas come in a canned and bottled range and are a great blend of not-too-sweet and full of flavour. The Peach & Mango Soda is transportative and tropical. There aren't many products on the market that can take either peach or mango as a flavouring and create a balanced beverage - much less both. In any good beverage, excellence lies in balance - the balance of sweet and sour, the balance of carbonation intensity, and the balance of all the flavours together. The Franklin & Sons Peach & Mango Soda is perfectly adjusted in all of these aspects. An impressive burst of fruity flavour, without overwhelming your taste buds so much that you won't be able to have another. There are a lot of great craft sodas on the market, but this one is at the top of the list to keep the fun flowing and the flavour fantastic.

Soft Spritzes 

With a new non-alcoholic spirit or bottled mix coming out seemingly every day, it's getting easier and easier for bartenders to combine flavours and add in some soda water for a non-alcoholic cocktail. The problem that becomes very obvious very quickly, is taste. Commercial non-alcoholic spirits are often trying to replicate the taste of a specific alcohol, the burn of the alcohol, or the texture the botanicals provide. For people who aren't seeking a replica of the alcohol experience, the desire asks for something far less sweet than a sugary soda and more balanced with experimentation and work. Enter: the non-alcoholic bitter. These beverages, popularised from Italy, are creeping their way into stores in the UK and the US. They have everything a delicious mocktail needs: time-tested recipes, balanced sweet and bitterness for complex flavour, and packaged in an adorable glass bottle. Though not the most common thing to see in a restaurant or bar fridge, most bars and restaurants can get them quite easily. While there are many different options, the cream always rises to the top:

TOP-TIER: Dandelion & Burdock Soda + Pineapple & Almond Soda 

Dandelion & Burdock is a classic UK blend that wouldn’t necessarily be a staple in other countries. But the flavour is strong, balanced, and balances the bittersweet expertly. Those not used to bittersweet drinks might not enjoy it upon first try. For anyone with a lot of experience drinking spritzes - or any bittersweet drinks - adding an extra pop of jazziness via a craft soda water is ideal. Mixing in the Pineapple & Almond Soda in equal amounts to the Dandelion & Burdock will open up the flavour and stretch the enjoyment time making a lasting spritz experience with a depth and multitude of flavour. A lot of great cocktail bars have bottles of Franklin & Sons stashed away, but if they don't, they can easily get it upon request from a guest. And any kind-enough server or bartender won't mind combining two into one.

.001% Mixes (approximately)

If there's a hard rule for avoiding all alcohol, entirely, without exception, under any circumstances, this section won't be useful. However, if you're okay with trace amounts only measurable in minute scientific terms, a whole new world opens up with bitters and tinctures. As an industry rule, when a guest expresses they aren't imbibing in alcohol, staff respectfully avoid bitters and tinctures as they are alcohol based. However, the creative flavour landscape changes entirely if a guest says, "I'd like something non-alcoholic, but bitters and tinctures are okay!" With bitters being the spice rack of the mixology world, a whole cupboard of combinations await that one simple caveat. 

TOP-TIER: Guava & Lime with Honey and Bitters 

The Franklin & Sons sodas are delicious all on their own, but the experience can be maximised with a few additions to the full flavour already in the bottles. Utilising the spice rack of the drinks world, bitters can change and add complexity to many low-almost-no-alcohol drinks. The honey will accentuate the Guava richness, the bitters work perfectly with the lime, and the lime wedges will add extra zing to the delightful bubble structure across the whole Franklin & Sons portfolio. This cocktail - a loose adaptation of the Australian sensation “Lemon Lime Bitters” - will zhuzh up your night out instantly. Traditionally, imbibers haven't ever had more than two dashes of bitters, but this 8 dash recipe brings an unbelievable flavour bomb to the combination below. But, also, everything mentioned above would be delicious with a few dashes of bitters. 

Ingredients:
3 lime wedges muddled
1 bottle Franklin & Sons Guava & Lime Soda 
15 ml honey 
8 dashes aromatic bitters 

Method:
Combine all ingredients and add ice.

Bar programs are realising the growing demand for thoughtful, delicious non-alcoholic options. Finding or requesting craft sodas or soft spritzes or asking for a drink with bitters to create a balanced, flavorful drink without alcohol doesn't have to be a challenge. With the right ingredients and a bit of courage to ask the staff, non-alcoholic beverages can offer just as much complexity and enjoyment as their boozy counterparts. These options make it clear that alcohol-free nights out can be just as delicious and memorable. All it takes is a little exploration and openness from both bartenders and guests to elevate and enhance the non-alc experience. Cheers to a vibrant, flavourful night out—now available with more flavour!

For more info check out these non-alcoholic options too.

By Zach Sapato 

What's The Difference Between Wet Shaking and Dry Shaking Cocktails?

Whether you're behind the bar or just shaking things up at home, knowing how to shake a cocktail properly is key to nailing that perfect blend. But what's with all the talk about wet shaking and dry shaking? It’s all liquid isn’t it? Don’t worry if you’re a bit confused – we’ve got the lowdown on these essential techniques, why they matter more than you might think, and how to use them to customise your cocktails.

What is a Wet Shake and What is a Dry Shake?

A wet shake is your classic cocktail shake, where you toss in some ice with your ingredients, giving them a good chill while mixing them all together. This technique dilutes and cools your drink – perfect for a crisp, refreshing sip. Most wet shakes should take less than 20 seconds to avoid ‘overshaking’.

A dry shake, on the other hand, involves shaking your cocktail without ice. This is usually done when you're working with egg whites or aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) to create a lovely frothy head because emulsification and aeration are better at room temperature. Think cocktails like the classic Whisky Sour or a Ramos Gin Fizz – the dry shake ensures your froth is light and velvety before you wet shake it to cool things down. This method takes slightly longer than wet shaking, usually at least 30 seconds to really work the ingredients through and give the texture time to develop.

Are there other types of cocktail shaking?

Yes! Beyond the wet and dry shake, there’s the reverse dry shake. This is where you shake with ice first, strain the ice out, and then shake again without it… but with the egg white included. The result? An even fluffier foam!  There’s no need to strain after that final shake, so all that glorious velvety foam goes into the glass.

Half of mixology is, of course, about the show, so it makes sense that are many variations of shakes. For example, the hard shake, invented by Japanese bartender Kazuo Ueda, is a wet shake that uses highly stylised gentle shaking to give greater control over the shaker.

Then there’s the double shake – a two-step process designed for more complex cocktails where you can shake two shakers at one time.

Essentially though, wet and dry are the two categories – with and without ice.

Why whether you wet or dry shake your cocktail matters

Shaking your cocktail isn’t just about looking cool (although that’s a nice bonus). It directly affects the drink’s texture and taste. Firstly, whatever you shake, its fundamental purpose is to combine ingredients. A cocktail, in most cases, should be homogenous, with one enjoyable liquid rather than out of balance hits of the individual components.

Wet shaking chills and dilutes your cocktail, creating a perfectly balanced drink that’s refreshing.

Dry shaking, meanwhile, helps to aerate the mixture, giving cocktails that silky, frothy texture. It can also reduce bitterness and increase sweetness, did you know?

Whether you're using one or the other, the method plays a big role in how your drink feels on the palate. By varying the duration of your shakes and their styles, you can control the aeration, dilution and temperature of your cocktails – which has a huge impact.

An example of a wet shake cocktail

Daiquiri

Almost all cocktails require wet shakes so you could use many examples, but the Daiquiri is a classic, combining sweet and tart flavours with refreshing ice. Some bars have ruined the Daiquiri if you ask us, turning it into a sugary slush puppy, but if you make sure your ice isn’t blended or too broken up, and you go easy on the syrup, it’s a winner.

Ingredients:
50ml white rum
25ml lime juice
15ml simple syrup
Lime twist (garnish)

Method:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. As a top tip, take a look at your ice cubes once strained – they should be curved at the edges, rather than totally shattered.

An example of a dry shake cocktail

Whisky Sour

Sours, with their use of egg white, are the best example of dry shaking; the most famous of which is surely the Whisky Sour. With vanilla, caramel and rich fruits from the whisky, the vivid sour lemon freshness, some sweetness for balance and frothy egg white, it’s a luxurious and sophisticated serve.

Ingredients:
50ml bourbon
30ml lemon juice
15ml simple syrup
Dash of Angostura bitters (optional)
1 egg white
Cherry or lemon (garnish)

Method:
First, dry shake all ingredients (without ice) for 30 seconds to froth the egg white. Add ice, shake again, and strain into a glass. Top with a dash of bitters for added complexity and aesthetics.

If you’re really getting into your cocktail making, then check out our home bar essentials guide here.

Up Your Halloween Game With These Perfect Halloween Treats and Cocktail Pairings

If you’ve got kids or you just want to be fully prepared for Trick or Treaters, chances are you’ll be stocked with Halloween Treats this October. Or perhaps you just want to get involved, celebrate the spooky season and have a bit of a party. Whatever your justification (not that you need one!), Halloween sweets can make a wonderful pairing with some of our favourite cocktails. Because Halloween isn’t just about costumes, it’s about indulgence. So, for a grown-up celebration, we’ve taken some of the country’s most beloved chocolates and sweets, and paired them up with the perfect cocktail. Let’s dive into boo-zy bliss!

White Russian + Snickers

This Big Lebowski favourite is the indulgent combination of vodka, coffee liqueur and cream, but for even more indulgence, Snickers is the perfect pairing. The richness of the cocktail enhances the sweetness and texture from the caramel and nut-filled Snickers. Vodka, coffee, chocolate, nuts and cream – this is a proper dessert cocktail. Find your White Russian recipe here.

Espresso Martini + Dark Chocolate

Of course, dark chocolate is perfect alongside an Espresso Martini – so much so that you can even get chocolate riffs of the original. Coffee and chocolate embrace the Mocha style, but to avoid too much sweetness stick with rich dark chocolate. This way, the intense espresso notes complement the bittersweet cocoa, and the structure of the hearty vodka keeps everything in place. Find your Espresso Martini recipe here.

Rum Punch + Starburst

If you’re into intense flavours and have people round for Halloween, then a big Rum Punch is perfect. To complete the match made in tropical heaven, playful, juicy Starburst brings some sweetness to the punch. Both offer vibrant, bold fruity, tangy flavours so it works well to liven up any party. If you’re into subtle, nuanced flavours then swerve this, but since when has Halloween been about subtlety!? Find your Rum Punch recipe here.

Dark ‘n’ Stormy + Bounty

And you thought things couldn’t get any more tropical! The rum and ginger of a Dark 'n' Stormy perfectly complement the coconutty sweetness of a Bounty. The spicy notes of the cocktail cut through the creamy coconut, creating a balance that’s indulgent yet refreshing - ideal for an exotic twist on your Halloween feast. Find your Dark ‘N Stormy recipe here.

Irish Coffee + Milky Way

This comforting combination blends the warm, boozy kick of an Irish Coffee with the soft, chocolatey sweetness of a Milky Way. The coffee's bitterness cuts through the caramel and nougat, making it a cosy, comforting duo to enjoy on a crisp Halloween evening. Find your Irish Coffee recipe here.

Margarita + Gummy Bears

A classic Margarita’s sharp lime zing pairs wonderfully with the tangy sweetness of Gummy Bears. The salt rim brings out the fruity flavours of the sweets, while the tequila adds a bold kick, turning this playful pairing into a fiesta in your mouth - perfect for Halloween mischief. With the chewiness, touch of salt and vibrant zing of citrus, it’s a very interesting pairing. Find your Margarita recipe here.

Gold Rush + Twix

If you’re not familiar with the Gold Rush, it’s essentially a Whiskey Sour with honey; so, bourbon, lemon and floral honey for the sweetness. This complements the sweet caramel crunch of Twix brilliantly, adding to the rich biscuit flavour. It’s so satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated, and that residual citrus and bourbon punch is enough to cut through and refresh somewhat. To make your Gold Rush, follow this recipe:

Ingredients:
60ml bourbon
20ml lemon juice
20ml honey syrup
Garnish (lemon twist)

Method:
Shake everything well with ice until it feels chilled to the touch. Strain into a rocks glass over just one large ice cube, and finish with a wonderful lemon twist.

Clover Club + Skittles

The fruity, raspberry notes of a Clover Club cocktail make a perfect pairing for the rainbow of flavours in Skittles. This combo bursts with juicy, tangy fun, balancing the cocktail's delicate sweetness with the zingy, chewy texture of the sweets. A thing of beauty. Find your Clover Club recipe here.

Martini + Liquorice

If you want a slight break from fruity or chocolatey sweetness, then try this. For something bold and adventurous, pair the bracing botanicals of a Martini with the dark, intense flavour of liquorice. The sharpness of gin and vermouth plays off the earthy, slightly bitter notes of liquorice, creating a surprisingly harmonious combo for those with a taste for the unexpected. It’s a well-known combo, especially if you use a gin with liquorice as a botanical, like Hayman’s or Beefeater. Find your Martini recipe here.

French 75 + Lemon Sherbet

Lemon lovers, this is the motherload. The sparkling, citrusy kick of a French 75 is made for a playful pairing with lemon sherbets. The champagne bubbles and the gin’s sharpness highlight the zesty tang of the sweets, creating a fresh, fizzy sensation that’ll have you reaching for more. A refreshing and cheeky pairing for Halloween celebrations. Find your French 75 recipe here.

If you want to stylise your cocktails for the season, then these easy-to-make garnishes are surprisingly effective!

Which Mixers Pair Best With Which Gins?

Gin lovers are often cited as the curious, adult Alice in Wonderland sub-section of distilled spirits drinkers. As one myself, I am fluid in my drink choices, always up for new adventures in gin and mixers. People like me really enjoy trying new flavours, concepts, and combinations. It’s important for our five senses to get involved in any drinking experience. Constantly on a quest to seek a new favourite to make us grin like a Cheshire cat, we rarely stick with one preferred brand, building up home collections of gin bottles we fell in love with along the way as they beckoned ‘Drink Me’. Adult Alices treasure our gin cabinets with pride. It’s something non-gin peeps in the ordinary world struggle to understand.

As consumers, our buying decisions are multi-faceted, not based solely on the spirit inside the bottle, we’re also drawn to brand story, ethos and of course eye-catching bottle design and colours. We love attractive gin bottles very much and struggle to part with our ‘babies’ even when they’re empty! One of the most significant lessons we can learn from Alice in Wonderland is the importance of imagination. This must be the reason many empty gin bottles end up repurposed into table lamps and other home decor. As owners we can keep the relationship, pay homage to the memorable moments, flavours, whimsy, and magical quality of our experiences. By opening up our insatiably curious nature and thinking outside the bottle, gin helps us live a life that is anything but ordinary.

Has the gin bubble burst?

Some folks are saying the UK gin bubble has burst. Can this possibly be true? It does seem to be the case that demand for the classic Gin and Tonic has shown some decline lately. But why? 

If we peep through the lens of a typical Adult Alice’s looking glass, you realise her perception of the world around her constantly shifts and changes so she will always seek variety in her sips. To cater to this profile, retailers and bars must keep adapting their range of gin offerings and mixer selections to meet consumer demand and provide new adventures in flavour. Alongside core popular gins and tonics, a kaleidoscope of new choices emerge.

With more options available than there have ever been, experimenting with flavours, styles and other spirits is an unsurprising next step for any gin lover, however they are unlikely to permanently replace gin for something different as a favourite spirit. Light and Dark Rums, Vodka, Tequila, Scotch Whisky, Cognac and Armagnac etc may pique their curiosity for a while but there’ll always be a homecoming to Gin. That’s because no other distilled spirit category offers so many botanically diverse variations and Gin is too deep-rooted in UK culture to lose its appeal. Added to that, we demand variety in the T part of our beloved G&T as tastes evolve.

Exciting developments in tonics and mixers is where we head next in this article. Follow me down the rabbit hole into a wonderland of tonic waters, lemonades, cola and sodas.

LONDON, 1886

In Victorian London, 1886, Lewis Carroll’s popular Alice in Wonderland books had been adapted into a musical and rehearsals were underway for its premiere at The Prince of Wales Theatre. At the same time, in Rickmansworth London, three brothers George, Albert and Frederick Franklin began creating extraordinary drinks by combining the finest naturally sourced ingredients. They grew a reputation for their mineral water, brewed ginger beer and lemonade which they sold from their small family confectioners in returnable torpedo-shaped glass bottles. In 1898 (the year Lewis Carroll died) Franklin & Sons Mineral Waters was born when Frederick’s son (also Frederick) took over the business and renamed it. In 1900 the business expanded into the old silk mill at the west end of Rickmansworth High Street and went from strength to strength.

True pioneers in the soft drinks space, the company led the way with natural ingredients and flavourings, innovating further in the 1930s when they became inspired by demand from Americans travelling to London.

FRANKLIN & SONS LTD

Relaunched in 2016 to meet market demand in the same way it responded in the past, today Franklin & Sons follows those same principles using their experience and expertise to craft a wider range of exceptional, award-winning drinks without compromise, ie minus artificial colours, flavours, sweeteners or preservatives. The bottle aesthetic remains traditional and nostalgic and reflects the pioneering values of yesteryear.

But don’t make assumptions that their ideas are trapped in the past. There is nothing bland about these drinks. They ooze the most wonderful flavours and natural vibrancy that every botanical fanatic looks for.

Read on for how they stretch the nature of mixers into innovative new realms. But first, let’s cover their award-winning tonics. If you enjoy a classic G&T give these a try because they may just become your favourite new go-to tonic. Especially if you are concerned about sugars, artificial sweeteners, or like to count the calories.

The Best TONIC WATERS for Gin

PREMIUM INDIAN TONIC WATER pairs well with juniper-forward gins (where juniper is the primary flavour and any other flavours are not as prominent). Natural botanical and citrus flavours, sparkling water and cinchona bark extract are blended to make this delicate Premium Indian Tonic Water.

Calories: 34 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml, 500ml (screw cap) and 150ml cans.
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles (200ml)

PREMIUM LIGHT TONIC WATER pairs well with navy strength gins and vapour-infused gins. The same natural botanical and citrus flavours of the Premium Indian Tonic, but provides a slimline version without compromising on flavour.

Calories: 22 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml, 500ml (screw cap) and 150ml cans.
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles (200ml)

ELDERFLOWER & CUCUMBER TONIC WATER complements floral gins and white port. Handpicked elderflower and cucumber flavours are blended with sparkling water and cinchona bark extract to make this naturally light, floral tonic water. 

Calories: 21 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

The Best MEDITERRANEAN TONICS for Gin

ORIGINAL MALLORCAN TONIC WATER best served with citrus-heavy gins and flavoured vodkas. Mallorcan citrus, natural botanicals and mediterranean flavours, sparkling water and cinchona bark extract are blended to make this refreshing tonic water.

Calories: 21 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

SICILIAN LEMON TONIC WATER is best served with sloe gin or berry-infused gins. Sicilian lemons and natural botanicals, sparkling water and cinchona bark extract blend together to make this citrusy tonic water.

Calories: 46 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

ROSEMARY & BLACK OLIVE TONIC WATER mixes perfectly with reposado tequila, ruby ports and herbaceous gins. This award-winning tonic blends natural rosemary and olive flavours with sparkling water and cinchona bark extract to make this light and herbaceous tonic water.

Calories: 22 kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

The Best PINK LEMONADES & COLA TO ENJOY WITH SPIRITS

NATURAL ROSE LEMONADE is perfect over ice for any occasion. English rose petals, lemon juice and sparkling water are blended to make this floral twist on the 1886 original lemonade.

Calories: 33 kcal per 100ml
Size: Available in 200ml, 275ml and 500ml (screw cap) bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

SPRING RHUBARB LEMONADE provides a zesty twist on the original 1886 lemonade, harvested rhubarb, lemon juice and sparkling water are blended to create this refreshing soft drink.

Calories: 25 kcal per 100ml
Size: 275ml bottles
Buy here: £14 for 12 bottles

1886 ORIGINAL COLA is a truly unique blend of vanilla, West African kola nut, Colombian coffee beans and sparkling water are blended to make this complex but full flavour cola. 

Calories: 40kcal per 100ml
Size: Available in 200ml and 275ml (screw cap) bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

SODAS & GINGER ALE TO ENJOY WITH OTHER SPIRITS

PINK GRAPEFRUIT SODA is perfect with tequila Blanco for a simple Paloma. This zesty new soda is a natural blend of pink grapefruit and lime juices with sparkling water. It makes for a bright, perfectly balanced drink with bitter notes.

Calories: 22kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles

MANDARIN & GINGER SODA is designed to pair with cognac, brandy or Irish whisky. Aromatic mandarin and spicy ginger are blended with sparkling water to make a light and subtle drink with a spicy, warm finish. Not too sweet.

Calories: 21kcal per 100ml
Size: 200ml bottles
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles 

ORIGINAL GINGER ALE pairs perfectly with pisco, scotch whisky or Armagnac. Bringing a balance of subtle warmth with a refreshing twist, this mixer is a blend of natural root ginger extract and sparkling water. Can be enjoyed as a standalone soft drink or mixer.

Calories: 33kcal per 100ml
Size: Available in 200ml bottles and 150ml cans
Buy here: £20 for 24 bottles 

Knowing that consumers seek new flavours and want to change up their mixers, garnishes and spirit to add variety to their drinking experiences or seek non-alcoholic alternatives, Franklin and Sons have worked hard to develop a range of mixers and tonics that tickle modern taste buds - try as many of these mixers as you can and I can guarantee you will find new favourites. I hope this article has left you feeling curiouser and curiouser to explore further. Long live all the Adult Alices… across this universe and the next…

By Robbie Jerram

Signature Drinks from a Legendary London Casino You Absolutely Must Try

London’s nightlife hits different. The energy is wild, and right in the middle of it all sits The Hippodrome Casino. This place is legendary for good reason, as it mixes gambling, food, and shows into something you won't forget.

Sure, the gaming floors and live entertainment grab attention. But the bars are where the magic happens. The cocktails here are seriously good, and they'll turn your regular night out into something special. In this article, we'll guide you through the best cocktails at The Hippodrome Casino.

Entertainment and Elegance at The Hippodrome

The Hippodrome Casino is at Leicester Square. It first opened as a circus variety theatre in 1900 but has developed into a seven-story complex. It now houses three casinos, a floor devoted to poker, award-winning restaurants, and nine bars.

The building is rich in history, from hosting Harry Houdini to modern-day Magic Mike Live shows. The innovative vibe comes with bars on several levels: from the vibrant Penny Bar with a view of the Grand Casino to the peaceful rooftop terraces. Once you lay eyes on The Hippodrome's style, you'll feel it's the ideal place to enjoy a drink.

As elegant as The Hippodrome is, we understand that all players can’t play there. For some, the issue is distance, while for others, they might just prefer the comfort and privacy that comes with playing online. 

For those who prefer gambling online, there are numerous platforms that offer the top quality service that are similar to what you will find at The Hippodrome. You can find top sites with the fastest withdrawal options and plenty of modern payment methods, like e-wallets and cryptocurrencies, to facilitate rapid payoffs and deposits.

Such destinations bring a touch of luxury to your apartment. It’s an easy way to enjoy the spirit of The Hippodrome without boarding a plane.

Why the Drinks at Hippodrome Stand Out

The cocktail menu here shows they care. Bartenders work with top-shelf spirits, fresh ingredients, and techniques that actually matter. The drinks look incredible and taste even better. Love old-school classics? They've got you. Want something weird and wonderful? They've got that too. Even if you don't drink alcohol, their mocktails make sure nobody gets left out.

Signature Cocktails You Can’t Miss

The cocktail list includes every flavour one can imagine. Every single one of the bars adds a different twist to them. The following are the best of the best, whether you're gambling or just socializing with friends.

The Hippodrome Bellini

This is their take on the classic Italian cocktail. Peach purée and Prosecco collide in a refreshing yet classy drink. They chill it and garnish it with fruit. The lightness and the bubbles make it perfect to enjoy prior to a performance or if you've just won big at the tables. Fizzy and sweet, if this is your taste.

Watermelon Martini

If you're in need of something light and summary, this is the one. Grey Goose vodka, watermelon juice, and a splash of sugar syrup, shaken over ice until it's freezing. It comes with a watermelon wedge that's just Instagram gorgeous. Permission Bar serves this one, and people can't get enough of how refreshing it tastes.

Jimmy’s London Thing

Jimmy’s London Thing is named after one of the casino’s owners. Naturally, it should be a worthy pick. It's a modern spin on gin cocktails. Tanqueray gin mixed with elderflower cordial, cranberry juice, and soda. The result is floral and tart at the same time. The flavour works perfectly with all the surrounding luxury.

Classic Champagne Cocktail

Sometimes you need pure luxury. That's this drink. Hennessy VS cognac, Angostura Bitters, brown sugar, and Champagne come together into something sophisticated. It's also perfect for toasting when you hit it big.

Why You’ll Love These Cocktails

• Fresh, quality ingredients create bold flavours

• Creative twists on classics keep things interesting 

• Each drink matches The Hippodrome's vibrant energy

The Best Bars to Enjoy These Drinks

The Hippodrome’s nine bars each feel different. Each one specializes in certain cocktails. Whether you want the excitement of the gaming floor or a peaceful rooftop escape, there's a bar that fits. Here's where to find these signature drinks.

Permission Bar

This cocktail spot sits near the Magic Mike Live theatre. Permission Bar is known for drinks made by hand and service that pays attention. The Watermelon Martini shines here, but they also create custom drinks using vintage spirits. The intimate feel makes it great for pre-show drinks or relaxed evenings.

Rooftop Terrace

If you want drinks with a view, the Rooftop spreads across three floors. This garden-themed escape in the middle of the West End has a 4.3-star rating on OpenTable. People love it for the cocktails, food, and chill atmosphere. The Hippodrome Bellini works perfectly up here with the outdoor setting. Guests love the heated terraces and sipping drinks while looking out over London's skyline.

Lola’s Underground Casino Bar

Lola's Underground Casino Bar feels cosy and retro. It focuses on classic games like roulette and blackjack. The bar serves Jimmy's London Thing, which pairs perfectly with the lively atmosphere. Hidden away in the basement, this place is a gem with serious fun vibes.

Non-Alcoholic Options

The Hippodrome doesn’t leave non-drinkers out of the fun. Their Temperance menu runs across all bars, with sophisticated mocktails that compete with the alcoholic ones. Take the Passion and Raspberry Colada. It's a fresh passion fruit and raspberries create a creamy, tropical flavour without any alcohol. At £6, it's budget-friendly but doesn't compromise on taste. 

Top Non-Alcoholic Picks

• Passion and Raspberry Colada: Tropical treat with fresh fruit

• Soft Brew: Beer-like drink with hops and malt, minus the alcohol

• Mojito: Twist on the classic, mixing apple juice, mint, lime, and soda

• Freshly Squeezed Juices: Options like orange and passion fruit for something refreshing

Pairing Drinks with The Hippodrome Experience

To make the most of your visit, pair your cocktail with any other of The Hippodrome’s offerings. You can sip a Watermelon Martini before catching Magic Mike Live. You can even enjoy a Bellini on the rooftop while taking in the views. 

For winners, you can celebrate your wins with a drink of choice. You can focus on the drinks and entertainment right after. The Hippodrome’s Rewards Card also offers perks like 10% off food and drink. It's easier for you to indulge in these signature cocktails.

Tips for Visiting The Hippodrome’s Bars

For a memorable experience, keep these tips in mind when visiting The Hippodrome’s bars:

• Be Early for Events: For shows and cabaret performances, grab a drink at Permission Bar an hour early for a good spot.

• Check the Rooftop Minimum Spend: On Fridays and Saturdays, the rooftop terrace has a £30 per head minimum spend, so plan ahead.

• Sign Up for Rewards: The Hippodrome Friends loyalty scheme offers discounts on drinks and dining.

• Bring ID: If you look under 25, bring a passport or driving licence. The venue has an over-18 policy.

Why the Hippodrome’s Drinks Are a Must-Try

At The Hippodrome Casino, every detail is there to impress. Whether it's the atmosphere, games, or drinks, and when you try the signature cocktails, the quality ingredients and great service will make you understand the hype. 

Going to be in Leicester Square soon? You can always stop by and order a cocktail. It just might set up a night you won’t forget.

4 Sparkling Reds You Need To Try This Christmas

The key to holiday effervescence is time with loved ones, great food, and the often overlooked category of sparkling red wines. Many wine lovers aren’t well-informed on this category, if they know it exists at all. The category itself tends to get a one-note reputation from the popularity of the overly sweet varieties making people assume all sparkling reds fit into this box. While sweet sparkling reds are definitely enjoyable, there’s also options all over the sweet-dry spectrum that can be enjoyed by all. 

Sparkling red wine has the advantage of the deep cozy feelings that red wine brings into the holidays, as well as the bold and counter-cultural self-assured prestige which can accompany one’s appreciation of any under-valued category. Whether the goal is to impress loved ones with elevated tastes or just imbibe in a range of unique and delightful seasonal sparkles, these four bubbly bangers will dance over any taste buds for some holiday happiness! 

Bolney Wine Estate Cuvée Noir

Starting with a traditional sweet wine for those looking for that delicious pairing for puddings, this deep sparkling red is everything the category's been known for. However, most fans will be expecting one of two locations to be producing this type of wine: Italy or Australia. While others on this list do, in fact, hail from those locations, this one comes from a place a little closer to home. Bolney Wine Estate in West Sussex, England brings a unique and unexpected origin to this list and uses 100% Dornfelder, a red grape from Germany. This wine has a robust bubble structure, which adds some levity to the sweet red plums and red cherries.

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5% 
Find here: £32

Cantina Di Soliera Lambrusco Grasparossa Di Castelvetro NV 

An exemplar of the category, this lambrusco originates in Italy and brings a pure traditional flavor. Flavor. Super intense red, full of red and black forest fruits, and bringing delicate sweetness to the table. Where this one differs, is in bubble structure. A bit lighter than the previous selection and a touch dryer. Being a bit more airy, it does come across less sweet than a dessert wine but sweeter still than a before dinner drink. The light-heartedness of this might work best between meals or balancing a spicy or citrusy fish-based meal. The tannins at the end are what give it a dry sense that make it go down a little too quick and a little too easy.

Size: 75cl 
ABV: 8%
Find here: £9.95

Peter Lehmann Masters Black Queen Shiraz Sparkling Wine

The heavy hitter of this list, this wine tops out at 14%. A big swing of blackberries, blueberries, and deep rich tones of dark chocolate. Though the finish on this one isn't as dry, the wine itself does not lean as sweet as the others. The depth of this wine brings soft bubbles that won't overpower any of its delicate flavors. This is absolutely a during-dinner sparkling red - hearty enough to hold up to a full day of holiday conversations and smooth enough to accompany any roast dinner. The Australian sparkling Shiraz is the alternative answer given to those seeking to discover the opposite side of the sweet reputation of sparkling reds.

Size: 75cl
ABV: 14%
Find here: £27.50

Paulett Trillians Sparkling Red

Another from the Australian side of sparkling reds, this wine is a blend that incorporates some savory notes and minerality. Not as deep and brooding as any others on the list, it is lively, easy drinking, and well balanced. There are certainly more tannins in the finish than any others on the list, and would be recommended for experienced wine drinkers possibly new to sparkling reds. The simple label and undefined category do not do justice to the complexity and flavor, this wine brings to the sparkling red category. The snappy bubbles and versatile flavors will keep conversation flowing, jovial company, and any palate primed for a night of cozy celebration. 

Size: 75cl 
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £17.00

Sparkling red wines can be an unexpected holiday hero, bringing both festivity and versatility to your gatherings. Shattering stereotypes is easy with a few deep dives into the options online. The category is as diverse as every palate attending the festive celebration. Savoring the traditional sweetness of the Cuvée Noir, exploring the Italian charm of Lambrusco, diving into the rich depths of sparkling Shiraz, or enjoying the lively balance of a blend. Each bottle can bring something unique to the event with warmth, connection, and even a touch of extraordinary.

Let your wine glasses sparkle as much as your celebrations, let your pairings pop outside expectations, and let the cozy rich colors of the holidays spill into your sparkling wines.

by Zach Sapato

Must-Visit Wine Event: Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London 2024

Wine lovers, mark your calendars! On Saturday, 16 November 2024, the world-renowned Decanter Fine Wine Encounter is back, hosted at the historic Landmark Hotel in London. This much-anticipated event offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience exceptional wine - over 1,000 in fact - from the finest producers worldwide.

What is Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London?

On its 27th birthday, Decanter presents an immersive tasting experience once again, gathering together acclaimed producers and wine lovers under one roof. The Grand Tasting treats wine enthusiasts to an impressive variety of wines from around the globe, including exclusive access to the Cellar Collection Room, where 21 handpicked wineries will present three vintages each, including a rare, decade-aged library vintage. It’s an unmissable chance to taste wines typically unavailable to the public, all in the elegant surroundings of one of the capital’s finest hotels.

If that’s not enough to tempt you, Masterclasses will run throughout the day, featuring tastings of extraordinary wines from Rare Champagne, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, and Penfolds. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – it really is vino heaven.

Event Highlights at Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London

GRAND TASTING
Taste over 1,000 wines and meet over 100 of the world’s best producers. All Grand Tasting tickets include access to the Decanter World Wine Awards winners' table where you can taste Gold, Platinum and Best in Show wines from the 2024 competition.

MASTERCLASSES
Rare Champagne (11:15am - 12:30pm)
Château Ducru-Beaucaillou (1:30pm - 2:45pm)
Penfolds (3:45 pm - 5:00 pm)

CELLAR COLLECTION ROOM
Discover hidden gems with three unique flagship vintages per winery, including a library vintage aged around 10 years. Complimentary cheese and charcuterie will enhance your tasting experience.

When?
Two sessions available (10:30am - 1:30pm and 2:30pm - 5:30pm)

How much does it cost?
Due to the popularity of the event, the Grand Tasting only tickets have now sold out, but the good news is you can still get your hands on a very limited number of combined Grand Tasting and Cellar Collection tickets.

As a loyal DRINKLUSIVE follower, you can enjoy a 25% discount on tickets by using the code ‘DRINKLUSIVE24’ at checkout:

Grand Tasting & Cellar Collection ticket £116.25 (instead of £155)
Rare Champagne Masterclass ticket £146.25 (instead of £195)
Château Ducru-Beaucaillou Masterclass ticket £131.25 (instead of £175)
Penfolds Masterclass ticket £116.25 (instead of £155)

It really is a rare and wonderful opportunity to indulge in some of the world’s finest wines. For more information about the event and the producers involved (including the wines you could be tasting), click here.