Chambord Tasting Notes

It’s about time I write about a brand that I’ve either stocked or enjoyed since my beginnings within the drinks industry – Chambord. A name that nearly everyone has probably heard of, or indeed enjoyed maybe without realising – it’s the classic choice when it comes to a Kir Royale or French Martini. But howContinue reading “Chambord Tasting Notes”

Pinkster Tasting Notes

There’s a new gin on the market, showcasing itself with its creator Colonel Pinkster aka Stephen Marsh in North Hertfordshire. A big gin drinker himself, and seeing the resurgence that gin has been having these past few years, he decided to create his own, using the rather lesser know botanical of raspberries. For two years,Continue reading “Pinkster Tasting Notes”

Wild Turkey Tasting Notes

It’s not often you get to have lunch with a Master Distiller, especially one who has never even visited the UK before. But that’s exactly what happened today when Eddie Russell of Wild Turkey came to Manchester’s Room Restaurant and Cocktail Bar to talk about his and his fathers, Jimmy Russell, creations. With bartenders comingContinue reading “Wild Turkey Tasting Notes”

Cocktail Of The Week – Lychee Bellini

The latest Cocktail of the Week by collaborator and Head Barmen at the Vineyard at Stockcross David Coveney is Lychee Bellini, one that David says is “a perfect way to use this incredible fruit juice and create a perfectly refreshing aperitif”. Lychee Bellini Glass –  Coupette Ingredients –  50 ml Alain Milliat Lychee Nectar 20 ml St GermainContinue reading “Cocktail Of The Week – Lychee Bellini”

Auchentoshan Taste Experiments

AUCHENTOSHAN PRESENTS…The Taste Experiments Masterclasses that explore the concept of taste through scientific experiments in whisky, cocktails and food Prepare to embrace your inner scientist this summer at the Auchentoshan Taste Experiments – a series of events in London and Glasgow that will help you to understand and analyse your preferences to certain flavours.  TheContinue reading “Auchentoshan Taste Experiments”

Cinzano Tasting Notes

Over the years I have featured Cinzano on many a back bar, but it’s only recently that I have decided to really look into the brand and why it is something I keep listing. Cinzano dates back to 1757 and the Turin herbal shop of two brothers, Giovanni Giacomo and Carlo Stefano Cinzano. On theContinue reading “Cinzano Tasting Notes”

Cynar Tasting Notes

There’s always something unusual when it comes to spirits, especially in the category of liqueurs. But have you ever heard of an artichoke liqueur? Cynar, or Cynara scolymus in Latin, or artichoke in English, has actually been around since 1952, but only really in the market since 1995. An Italian bitter liqueur created using thirteenContinue reading “Cynar Tasting Notes”

Illyquore di Caffe Tasting Notes

You’d expect Illy to be making coffee as one of the biggest coffee names around. But they’ve had something a little different out for the past few years in the name of Illyquore di Caffe. But what is it? Illyquore di Caffe was previously named ‘Illy Espresso liqueur’ with it’s packaging designed by the famous ItalianContinue reading “Illyquore di Caffe Tasting Notes”

Marie Brizard Tasting Notes

Marie Brizard is a brand that many of you have probably heard of and seen on back bar’s a plenty. But did you know that it’s been around since 1755? That year saw Marie Brizard and her nephew, Jean-Baptiste Roger setting up the company and creating their first expression in Anisette (anise flavoured liqueur) in 1760.Continue reading “Marie Brizard Tasting Notes”

Ron Abuelo Tasting Notes

One brand of rum that I’ve only recently come across goes by the name of Ron Abuelo. On the odd occasion I’ve heard its name crop up, and seen the bottle in my hands, but never had the chance to give the liquid a go. But now I have! But before I share with youContinue reading “Ron Abuelo Tasting Notes”