Opihr Tasting Notes

There’s a new spiced gin on the market going by the name of Opihr. From new company Quintessential, it has been developed by Master Distiller Joanne Moore to ‘open your senses to the rich aromas of the ancient spice route.’ Using hand-picked botanicals including juniper from Italy, coriander from Morocco, angelica from Germany, cubebs from Indonesia, orangeContinue reading “Opihr Tasting Notes”

Hoxton Tasting Notes

Hoxton gin is a brand that has been doing the rounds these past few years and is becoming more and more seen on the back bars of many an establishment. But what makes this different? Advertising itself as ‘the most distinctive gin in the world’ and appealing to people who ‘want something different’, Hoxton isContinue reading “Hoxton Tasting Notes”

SW4 Tasting Notes

The name behind a gin can sometimes define the brand. There’s brands that name themselves after a specific process, others after their originator, some to a loose connection, and in the case of this one – after the postcode that it originates from. Originator Martin Price mentions on his website his inspiration and influence behindContinue reading “SW4 Tasting Notes”

Langley’s

Langley’s recently expanded their range for the first time since their launch back in April 2013 with the addition of the Old Tom expression. It’s with this that it’s a good opportunity to re-visit one of the mainstays in the recent gin renaissance here in the UK. Langley’s Distillery was founded back in 1920 byContinue reading “Langley’s”

Giulio Cocchi Tasting Notes

I love a master class. It gives the chance to try a brand that you may have never have experienced properly, or even knew that they had more than one expression available. It also has the opportunity on the odd occasion to meet some fascinating industry figures, whether it’s a brand ambassador, master distiller orContinue reading “Giulio Cocchi Tasting Notes”

Sip or Mix Portfolio Tasting Notes

A well-respected industry figure came into Manchester a few weeks back with her London-based Sip or Mix. Jenny Gardener set up her company back in June 2011 armed with experience from her past titles within Vanquish Wine, Green Island, Amathus and Oddbins as well as a passion for brands that are small batched, hand crafted, authentic andContinue reading “Sip or Mix Portfolio Tasting Notes”

Aperol Tasting Notes

Aperol has seen a bit of a resurgence lately, or to be fair, most summers. Why? Their signature serve comes into play and graces many a bar top. But do you really know what it is? Way back in 1919, the Barbieri brothers presented to the International Fair of Padua a bright orange liqueur namedContinue reading “Aperol Tasting Notes”

Sacred Tasting Notes

Sacred is a name that has been part of the London distillery scene for the past few years, and one feature that takes pride over them all is the fascinating story behind its creation. Sacred Microdistillery was established in London in 2009 by Ian Hart and Hilary Whitney. Their initial idea of creating gin hasContinue reading “Sacred Tasting Notes”

Vestal

A brand I’ve known of for a while determines itself as “Once you’ve tasted a Vestal Vodka you’ll probably never want to drink a commercial vodka again”. A rather bold statement their, but is it true? Let’s take a look. The Vestal Vodka Company is a father and son team, John and William. Wanting toContinue reading “Vestal”

Cocktail of the Week – Summer in California

The latest Cocktail of the Week by collaborator and Head Barmen at the Vineyard at Stockcross David Coveney is a summer signature serve that will soon be on offer. David uses some of the best products that California has to offer and a little of his own magic! “It’s everything you need from a drink in the summer,Continue reading “Cocktail of the Week – Summer in California”