How To Play Shot Roulette & Is It Anything Like Casino Roulette?

Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games in the world, known for its spinning wheel, numbered pockets, and high-stakes betting. However, a fun party variation called Shot Roulette has gained popularity as an exciting drinking game.

 Both games share the name "roulette" but they are quite different in mechanics and purpose. In this article, 666 Casinohas provided some insight into how to play Shot Roulette and how it compares to classic Casino Roulette.

What Is Shot Roulette?

 Shot Roulette is a drinking game designed for parties and social gatherings. Instead of chips and cash bets, players use alcoholic shots as their wager.

 The game typically involves a spinning wheel (similar in appearance to a roulette wheel) and several shot glasses labelled with numbers or colours that match those on the wheel.

 

How To Play Shot Roulette

 Playing Shot Roulette is simple and requires minimal setup:

 Get a Shot Roulette Set - Purchase or create a Shot Roulette set, which usually includes a mini spinning wheel and 12-16 numbered shot glasses.

 Fill the Shot Glasses – Pour different types of alcohol into each shot glass. Some players like to mix it up with water or non-alcoholic drinks for added suspense.

 Spin the Wheel – A player spins the wheel, and the number or colour the ball lands on determines which shot they must take.

 Repeat & Have Fun – Players take turns spinning and drinking until the shots are gone or everyone decides to stop.

How Is Shot Roulette Different from Casino Roulette?

 While both games involve a spinning wheel, their objectives and stakes are entirely different:

 Game Purpose - Casino Roulette is a gambling game played for money, while Shot Roulette is a drinking game meant for fun and entertainment.

 Betting System - Casino Roulette involves placing bets on numbers, colors, or sections, with payouts based on odds. Shot Roulette has no monetary bets—players simply drink shots based on the wheel's outcome.

 Strategy vs. Luck - Casino Roulette can involve betting strategies like the Martingale system, while Shot Roulette is purely luck-based.

 Game Setting - Casino Roulette is found in casinos worldwide, while Shot Roulette is typically played at parties or casual social events.

Should You Try Shot Roulette?

If you're looking for a fun way to liven up a party and enjoy a few drinks, Shot Roulette can be an exciting game to play with friends. Just be sure to drink responsibly, set limits, and ensure everyone playing is of legal drinking age.

Exciting Games Of Luck

Although Shot Roulette and Casino Roulette share a name and a spinning wheel, they serve very different purposes. Casino Roulette is a strategic gambling game, whereas Shot Roulette is a lighthearted drinking game for social occasions. Whether you're testing your luck at the casino or playing for fun at a party, both games provide an entertaining experience in their own way.

The Best Christmas Market Near You in 2024

No one loves the long winter nights that bring darkness by the afternoon, but in the build up to Christmas, this darkness is filled with the glimmering twinkle of Christmas markets. Come November, Britain’s towns and cities burst into full festive mode with chalets selling their wares, pop-up bars bustling with life and all manner of entertainment from giant wheels to magical ice rinks. There’s something special going on almost everywhere, but these are the Christmas markets that take things to that next level.

Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland, London

We can’t not include Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, promising, yet again, a festive dreamland that keeps visitors of all ages entertained. Home to the UK’s largest open-air ice-skating rink, carnival rides galore, and a sprawling Christmas market, this attraction is a London winter must-see on a scale not seen anywhere else. Not only are there the Bavarian stalls for handcrafted gifts and tasty treats like churros, bratwursts, and warming mugs of mulled wine, but other gates grant access to much more; the 70m observation wheel, a grotto, live music, ice bars, sculptures and fire pits to name a few. In terms of tickets, entrance costs between £5 and £7.50 (it’s London guys!), but there are a few different options and discounts depending on when you go and whether you pre-book rides – take a look on the site below. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s a stone’s throw from the incredible window displays of Regent and Oxford Street.

Dates: November 21 2024 - January 5 2025
Nearest station: Victoria and Paddington
Nearest tube: Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch
Nearest car park: Q-Park
Website

South Bank, London

Right by the London Eye, the South Bank Winter Festival brings unique stalls offering global food delights, the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge, and a breathtaking riverside view. Alongside the market, there’s a full line-up of festive shows and events to catch nearby, making it an ideal stop for a festive night out in the capital. Look out for multi-sensory experiences, exhibitions, live podcasts and more.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  26 December 2024 (though some events continue after this)
Nearest station: Waterloo and Southwark
Nearest tube: Waterloo, Southwark and Embankment
Nearest car park: APCOA South Bank
Website

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

If you want a huge Christmas market to explore, look no further. Birmingham’s festival is the biggest outside of Germany and Austria, bringing Bavarian charm and festive cheer to Victoria Square and New Street. Known for traditional bratwurst, gluhwein, and stollen, it is teeming with handcrafted gifts, charming chalets, and carol singing. Expect big wheels, ice rinks and a singing Christmas moose called ‘Chris Moose’ too.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  24 December 2024
Nearest station: Birmingham New Street
Nearest car park: Swallow Street/Town Hall
Website

Edinburgh Christmas Market, Edinburgh

Of course, this festival hotspot has a cracking Christmas Market. In recent years, it’s expanded across Princes Street Gardens to The Mound and up the Royal Mile, all set against possibly the best-looking backdrop in the UK. Expect stalls full of artisan crafts, gourmet foods, and Christmas magic including Santa’s stories, the big wheel, illuminated paths, and a 450 strong Christmas Tree maze. And all for free!

Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 4, 2024
Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley
Nearest car park: Castle Terrace
Website

Winter Wonderland, Nottingham

Positioned underneath one of the most impressive giant Christmas trees is East Midlands’ largest Christmas market, lighting up Nottingham’s Old Market Square with 70 Bavarian-style stalls, fairground rides, and live music. Grotto, ice rink, observation wheel, rides and a stunning ice bar – it’s the complete package.

Dates: November 13, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Nearest station: Nottingham
Nearest car park: Lace Market, Trinity Square and Broad Marsh
Website

Manchester Christmas Market, Manchester

One of the UK’s longest-standing and largest Christmas markets, Manchester’s festive zones take over nine city locations, with Albert Square’s grand setting leading the way. Visit Exchange Square, Cathedral Gardens, and Piccadilly Gardens to experience the best of European market flair, with everything from handmade crafts to mulled wine… and we mean everything – the variety is remarkable. Bear in mind that many stalls here are cash-only!

Dates: November 8, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Victoria, Piccadilly, or Oxford Road Station
Nearest car park: King Street West and China Town (parking in Ancoats is quieter and cheaper, and still within walking distance)
Website

Bath Christmas Market, Bath

Nestled within UNESCO World Heritage site Bath’s Georgian streets, the Christmas market is beloved for its distinctive artisan crafts, handmade gifts, and local food and drink options. The 150+ chalet stalls, all locally sourced, reflect the market’s commitment to quality and authenticity. With Bath Abbey as a backdrop, it’s a truly scenic holiday setting, and the perfect stop for a day of festive shopping, then unwinding at Bath’s famous spa. This market is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s best.

Dates: November 28, 2024 – December 15, 2024
Nearest station: Bath Spa (it’s also not far from London)
Nearest car park: Manvers Street, Avon Street and Kingsmead Square
Website

Cardiff Christmas Market, Cardiff

Named The Times’ Number One market in the UK, Cardiff’s Christmas Market has been perfecting its festive charm for 30 years this year, so it’s a big anniversary! Celebrating handmade craftsmanship, it features unique items from local artisans, whether that’s stunning glasswork, intricate ceramics, or beautifully crafted jewellery. Vendors change every 5-10 days, so you’ll find new treasures every week. Stroll through Hayes, Trinity Street, St. John, and Working Street to enjoy seasonal aromas and the sparkle of one-of-a-kind gifts, all in charming pedestrian-only areas.

Dates: November 14, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: Cardiff Central and Queen Street
Nearest car park: NCP Westgate Street, NCP Cardiff Rappots
Website

Winchester Cathedral, Winchester

Winchester Cathedral’s enchanting Christmas market has earned its place among Europe’s Top Ten and was named the UK’s second-best Christmas market in 2018. With around 100 thoughtfully chosen chalets, it transforms the Cathedral grounds into a festive wonderland, filled with tempting treats and unique gifts. The atmosphere is completed by the Cathedral Choir’s uplifting carols, adding an unforgettable, magical touch to this historic setting.

Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Winchester (near Southampton, and 1hr from London)
Nearest car park: Barfied P&R and St. Catherines P&R
Website

St Nicholas Fair, York

York’s beautiful Christmas Market is set against a backdrop of historical charm, making it a must-visit during the festive season. Stroll past alpine-style chalets filled with locally crafted gifts, artwork, and delicious seasonal treats. The towering Christmas tree and talented buskers fill the streets with holiday spirit, while the twinkling lights set a cozy, magical mood. York’s compact layout makes exploring on foot easy, with highlights like The Shambles Market adding an extra touch of medieval allure. This award-winning market is a true festive gem.

Dates: November 17, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: York
Nearest car park: Coppergate or Q-Park, but York Park & Ride is free, with £3.60 buses every 12mins.
Website

If you really want to embrace the Christmas countdown, how about a Wine Advent Calendar?

The Best Wine Advent Calendars of 2024

Why should kids have all the countdown fun? Boozy advent calendars have redefined holiday anticipation, turning December into a delightfully wine-filled journey. Each year, new and imaginative creations emerge, with offerings that aren’t just about quantity but real quality. And the best bit? You don’t need to risk buying a whole bottle to get a taste. This year, whether it’s 12 full-sized bottles or 24 perfectly poured sippers, there’s a treat waiting behind every door, so even if the rest of your days are filled with buildup and stress, you get a moment to yourself.

If wine discovery sparks your joy, then these calendars are your ticket to exploring new varietals from around the world. We’ve scoured the options to help you find the best of the bunch and arrived at this selection. Go on, treat yourself - you deserve it!

Laithwaites Mixed 2024 Advent Calendar

Laithwaites offers a merry mix of red, white, and rosé, perfect for any wine lover. Each day holds a 187ml bottle, and the grand finale? A 750ml pricey Prosecco for a true Christmas Eve toast! It’s a thoughtful and crowd-pleasing selection from an industry favourite, making it easy to try something new each day while sticking to trusted wines. A festive choice for classic tastes with a touch of surprise. You simply pay your £10 deposit (which gets taken off the price later on) to secure your calendar.

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml plus 1 x full size bottle
Find here: £89.99

Virgin Wines Mixed Wine Advent Calendar 2024

Virgin Wines led the charge in bringing wine advent calendars to the UK, and they’re still nailing it. This aesthetic selection boasts reds, whites, rosés, and fizz, each tucked behind a festive door, building to a celebratory full bottle on Christmas Day – yep, 25 doors. Each wine is handpicked and many are from small producers you won’t find at your local store. So, if you’re the type who loves a holiday surprise and discovering hidden wine gems, this calendar is the perfect countdown companion. If you’d rather zero in on red or white, then they have those options too.

Advent Days included: 25
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml
Find here: £89.99

Perfect Cellars Fine Wine Advent Calendar 2024

Perfect Cellars brings elegance to every festive sip with this line up of 24 premium wines. From Bordeaux classics to Italian icons, the focus here is on world-leading regions, with each 100ml pouch includes a story of provenance, making each day a refined journey in wine. If you’re after something rich and sophisticated without breaking the bank, this calendar is your go-to for luxurious tasting nights at home.

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 100ml
Find here: £189

Naked Wines Advent Calendar 2024

Naked Wines has crafted a line up of wine pouches from its independent winemaker network, each with its own special twist. Expect reds, whites, and perhaps even a dessert wine to keep things interesting. Packaged in a pull-out bookshelf design, it’s an affordable yet generous choice for anyone keen on supporting indie winemakers and exploring something new each day. You even get a QR code to read about where the wine you’re currently drinking came from… and the money you spend on it will be reinvested into supporting small winemakers too!

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 100ml
Find here: £99.99

Brixton Wine Club Advent Calendar 2024  

Get adventurous with Brixton Wine Club’s fun-filled calendar, featuring a mix of award-winning wines from the UK’s independent wine scene as well as nine other nations. Each day delivers a unique taste, like Mediterranean orange wine or low-intervention Riesling. The sleek can design is a convenient and eco-friendly way to enjoy your wines, making this an ideal pick for the curious and eco-conscious drinker. Interesting and accessible wines every day – what’s not to love?

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml-250ml
Find here: £130

If you’re after a spirit advent then fear not, we’re all over that too – check here!

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