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”

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”

Manchester Whisky Club Review – June

The end of last month saw meeting number six of the Manchester Whisky Club, held at the new venue of The Castle in Manchester. Just like last month, a theme was the order of the day, with everything American celebrated. Club founder Andy brought with him 5 expressions covering a little bit of everything, so withoutContinue reading “Manchester Whisky Club Review – June”

Manchester Whisky Club Review – May

A little over-due, but back at the end of May, the fifth instalment of the Manchester Whisky Club had a little Irish added to the occasion. Held at the Lass O’Gowrie, the fifth meeting had a special guest in the form of Jameson Brand Ambassador Stephen Carberry, bringing with him 5 expressions from their range. After talkingContinue reading “Manchester Whisky Club Review – May”

Campari Tasting Notes

A classic brand that I’m sure everyone has come across at some point is Campari. But what makes this brand so well-known? Campari was created in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. Bitter Uso Olanda, as Campari was initially called, was the result of Gaspare’s experiments concocting new beverages. The real change was having aContinue reading “Campari Tasting Notes”