Beyond The Sweet: Exploring The Bold World of Savoury Spirits

In cocktails, sweetness can often take centre stage, but there’s a new flavour frontier among mixologists and spirit enthusiasts shaking up the bar scene: savoury spirits. These characterful and complex flavours offer a new dimension to the drinking experience for those who crave depth over sugar - and there’s definitely a growing trend for savoury offerings. From herbaceous and coastal gins to earthy vodkas to peppery tequilas, smoky mezcals and peated whiskies, savoury options redefine what it means to enjoy a well-crafted, spirited drink. 

No ingredients are off the table to bridge the gap between the bar and the kitchen, and there’s much to savour; think cooking spices, earthy root veg, olives, garden herbs, foraged seaweeds, warming chilli peppers, roasted agave and smoky peat. Producers can work with almost anything that adds flavour to a spirit as long as it's approved for human consumption. 

‘Botanicals’ although not a legally defined word in spirit production, is an overarching term for any part of a plant used to flavour a spirit such as fruit, leaves, roots, barks or seeds. Animal flavourings can also be used in production (eg pechuga mezcal as touched on below) but these are less common.

If you’re ready for new adventures in flavour, check out these are nine savoury spirits below!

Portobello Road No.171 Savoury Gin (London, UK)

Let’s begin with herbaceous botanicals and a Mediterranean-inspired gin produced with restaurateurs and foodies in mind. Portobello Road created this stand-out product to prove that gin doesn’t need to hide behind a floral or fruity identity to be popular. It’s a vibrant juniper-led gin made with a supportive blend that includes Calabrian bergamot peel, rosemary, basil, green olive and a pinch of Mediterranean sea salt to masterfully bring delicious notes of citrus, herb and delicate spice to the palate. Pair this savoury gin with Mediterranean or Mallorcan tonic for a refreshing gin and tonic and garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary. Particularly loved by Martini lovers, this also makes a splendid Dirty Martini or Gibson by adding dry vermouth, olive, brine or onion respectively. Once you’ve poured your drink, settle in for a cosy movie night with a Richard Curtis romcom set in Portobello such as Notting Hill or Love Actually. The absolutely perfect gin bottle, standing in front of a gin lover, asking them to love her.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £37.94

Isle of Wight Distillery Mermaid Gin (IOW, UK)

Leaving London, if sea air inspires you, you may already know about rock samphire - a plant that clings precariously to sea cliffs all around the British Isles. The people who make Mermaid Gin on the Isle of Wight hand-pick this botanical from chalk cliffs where it’s known locally as ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’, hence the gin’s name. In Shakespeare’s King Lear, the harvesting of Samphire was described as ‘a dreadful trade’. When Edgar tries to convince the blinded Gloucester that he’s standing on a clifftop at Dover, he describes the scene to him, explaining that “halfway down hangs one who gathers samphire - a dreadful trade - methinks he seems no bigger than his head.” A risky business to harvest, rock samphire (also known as sea fennel) stands out in this gin with a characterful citrus zing bringing you coastal notes, combined with peppery spice from the other ingredients which include juniper and grains of paradise. 

No cliffhangers here, this is definitely a gin worth trying.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £36.05

Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin (Australia)

Love olives? Then now let’s head down under to explore a multi-award-winning, bright and delicious savoury Aussie gin made with three types of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, olive leaf tea, rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts and lemon myrtle. The aroma, flavour and texture of fresh olive is stunning. Very Mediterranean yet also very Australian at the same time. 

Perfect for a Gibson martini or in a G&T garnished with rosemary to accentuate the positively olivey notes. Bonzer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43.8%
Find here: £36.25

Shanty Seaweed Botanical Vodka (Dorset, UK)

Heading back to the UK now to expand on the coastal theme, here’s an expertly crafted small-batch vodka from Dorset that blends five hand-foraged British seaweeds to create stunning undercurrents of umami flavour. The subtle depth of flavour is further enhanced by ‘ripples’ of Asia with wasabi, galangal, yuzu, bergamot and sea buckthorn together with a pinch of local Dorset sea salt to remineralise the purest of water with which the spirit is cut.  Sip this and your taste buds instantly transport you somewhere quite magical and evoke the shoreline’s magnetic pull - you can almost hear waves softly lapping, whichever continent you’re on. The bottle itself is a work of art, fabulously reminiscent of a ship’s decanter, featuring a wrap-around design by Dorset artist Emma Brownjohn. As you turn the bottle around, the image distorts through the glass like you’re viewing the scene underwater! A vodka to savour, whether on its own or with a mixer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £32

St George Distillery Green Chile Vodka (California, USA)

Staying with vodka, we now head to the US for a grain vodka that has a distinct flavour. In the glass, freshness meets a juicy, vegetal quality for a truly unique and delicious spirit. St George’s Green Chile vodka is made with five types of pepper with varying sweet/savoury qualities, all of which are grown in California: Jalapeño, Serrano, Habanero, Red Bell and Yellow Bell Pepper. The peppers in this spirit, combine with lime peel and coriander and result in rich and earthy aromas and flavours that dance on the palate to provide a spicy, perfect punch for the ultimate Bloody Mary.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £40.25

1800 Silver Blanco Tequila (Mexico)

Moving south from California into Mexico, here we find the brand that makes the world’s most-awarded Tequilas - with good reason. The key to 1800 Tequila’s excellence lies in its meticulous production process. Using 100% blue Weber agave, hand-picked from the fertile fields of the Jalisco region in Mexico, the brand embodies craftsmanship, quality and flavour. This unaged, pepper-forward, delicate spice tequila serves as a true representation of the pure essence of the agave plant. It offers a clean and crisp taste with subtle hints of citrus and pepper giving depth of flavour on which to base a refreshing Margarita. 

Don’t let the reasonable price fool you, this is quality Tequila: the solution to all of life’s prickly situations. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £26 (normally £33)

QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga Mezcal

Next we have a niche subcategory of Mexican spirit distilled from the agave plant: Pechuga mezcal. This is a nuanced, centuries-old, artisanal distillation method that remains unsung. Most pechugas follow a family formula passed down through generations, and call for local ingredients. Uncooked meat is usually suspended in the still to add animal protein/fats to the distillation process making it quite unique...  

But the thing about QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga is, it’s vegetarian-friendly! A small batch mezcal made with local Espadin agave that’s roasted, fermented and distilled using traditional methods. Then, instead of meat, homemade black mole paste is rested in the spirit for two weeks before the second distillation. The mole paste is made with chillies, sesame seeds, almonds, peanuts, garlic, onions, raisins, bananas and cacao. This intriguing expression combines the characteristic thick mouthfeel of pechuga mezcal with aromas of leather, earth, black pepper and chocolate complemented by notes of toasted nuts, stewed fruit, earthy spice, roasted cacao and peppery spice throughout the palate.

As savoury spirits go, this is so intriguing, it’s one you just have to try - whether you’re veggie or not.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £69.25

Caol Ila 12 year old Single Malt Whisky (Islay, Scotland)

Caol Ila’s 12 year old (Pronunciation: "kool-eela") is Islay’s hidden single malt aged in ex-bourbon casks. Presenting lighter and more subtly than other Islay peated whiskies with a malt smokiness, it’s a whisky that’s highly prized by connoisseurs. Following our theme of savoury spirits, this is the one that best fits a flavour profile reminiscent of summer barbeques. Think savoury, grilled food aromas and BBQ flavours with a light fragrant smokiness on the nose, and a pleasant brine on the palate. In Gaelic, Caol Ila means “Sound of Islay”, referring to the distillery’s location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura.  It’s a nice, uncomplicated, easy-drinking Islay Single Malt. Although peated whiskies aren’t to everyone’s tastes, I will say, many people who claim to not usually like peated whisky have said they enjoy drinking this one - just saying - a dram good trip - Islay be back.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £48.95

Linie Aquavit (Norway)

Finally, if you like an aged spirit but want something younger than 12 years old with a fine story, this one’s a must. On any trip to Scandinavia, one can be inundated by a complexity of spicy and savoury flavours, especially charismatic herbs such as dill, anise, coriander and caraway seeds. These are showcased perfectly in Norway’s national spirit, Linie Aquavit, which is now finding favour in some of the world’s more innovative bars. The distilled potato-based spirit derives its curious name from its unusual maturation at sea in oak casks, on board Norwegian trade ships that cross the equator (linie) twice en route to Australia and back again. This method results in many changes in temperature during the voyage which speeds up maturation. Check out the story on the label: “sailed to the other side of the world and back again for more than 200 years”. A bottle of Linie Aquavit on your table will provide both a talking point for your next family gathering and a delicious after dinner digestif best enjoyed the Scandinavian way - as a neat shot served at room temperature - with everybody drinking the shot in one. It can also be sipped of course. Aquavit’s herbal flavours will soothe the stomach and help with digestion after a large meal or family celebration. It complements many foods, and if you get a taste for it, you may even try pairing different styles of aquavit with different dishes. If you prefer to go your own way, it can also be served with a mixer over ice - but there’s no need to chill this bottle. It wouldn’t do those savoury flavours justice.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £37.83

I hope you feel inspired to try some new savoury spirits, either to drink on their own, with a mixer or in a delicious cocktail. There are plenty of new flavours out there to savour - as they say, the world’s your oyster!

By Robbie Jerram

To see more from Robbie either click on her bio above or here!

The Best Christmas Advent Calendars of 2024: A Boozy Countdown to Christmas

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly underway, with only mere days left before the daily excitement of opening that little door to find your treat inside arrives. But why should kids have all the fun? Grown-ups deserve a little holiday indulgence too! So this year, why not embrace the season with an advent calendar that offers something a bit more spirited?

We’ve taken on the important (and very enjoyable) task of tasting and testing a wide variety of alcohol-filled advent calendars to find you the best options for 2024. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur, a gin enthusiast, a rum aficionado, or simply looking for something non-alcoholic, there’s a calendar waiting to delight your senses this holiday season.

While these calendars may seem a little expensive at first glance, they offer incredible value for money when you consider the opportunity to sample an array of different styles and brands—without the need to commit to full bottles. So sit back, relax, and we ho, ho, ho-pe you have a very Merry Christmas when it arrives!

The Best Gin Advent Calendar: Craft Gin Club 2024 Advent Calendar

For gin lovers, the Craft Gin Club Advent Calendar is a true showstopper this year. Packed with 25 expertly curated gins, this calendar features a stunning array of classic, dry, and citrus-infused craft gins, many of which are new for 2024. Some of these will put you into the perfect Christmassy mood such as the exclusive Christmas cake gin from Tarquin’s, some will make you reminisce about some of the beautiful gins you’ve enjoyed throughout the year and let’s not forget the five mystery gins waiting to be discovered throughout the month. Each gin is thoughtfully paired with tasting notes to enhance your experience and transport you to the heart of Christmas. Cheers to that!

Cost: £89.99
Bottles: 25 x 50ml
Find it here: Craft Gin Club

The Best Rum Advent Calendar: The Rum Company Advent Calendar

Rum fans, rejoice because this year, The Rum Company brings you an exciting selection of rums from the UK! With a mix of rich, smoky, sweet, and tropical notes, there’s something for every rum lover’s palate. One standout inclusion is the seasonal Lytham Jamaican Gingerbread Rum, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. Whether you prefer sipping your rum neat or mixing it into cocktails, this calendar is certain to get you excited about new brands to look out for in 2025.

Cost: £139.99
Bottles: 24 x 50ml
Find it here: The Rum Company

The Best Whisky Advent Calendar: The Whisky Exchange ‘Whiskies of the World’ Advent Calendar

This year's The Whisky Exchange 2024 Advent Calendar features 25 stunning whiskies from some of the world’s most renowned distilleries and includes a wonderful mix of Scotch, Irish, American, and Japanese whiskies. From smooth single malts to bold small-batch blends and rye, there is something for every whisky lover to enjoy. The calendar also has a free perfect measure glass to really elevate each tasting experience. Cheers to that!

Cost: £130
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: The Whisky Exchange

The Best Vodka Advent Calendar: Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar

For a twist on the traditional, the Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar is a must-try. Containing some familiar favourites from previous years as well as plenty of new treats to explore, this year’s calendar features 25 different vodkas from some of the world’s best producers. Expect a mix of classic and flavoured vodkas, from fruity infusions to more festive options, which offer a great way to introduce yourself to some of the amazing choices there are out there.

Cost: £74.95
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: Master of Malt

The Best Cocktail Advent Calendar: NIO Cocktails 12-Day Advent Calendar

Put the jigger and shaker back in the cupboard as NIO has you sorted with this fabulous selection of 12 expertly crafted cocktails—two servings of each, so you can share the joy. From festive favourites like the Winter Sidecar to a holiday twist on the Christmas Margarita there is something for everyone to enjoy. Who knows, you might just find your 2025 go-to cocktail right here!

Cost: £135
Cocktails: 24 cocktails
Find it here: NIO Cocktails

The Best No-Lo Advent Calendar: DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar

We were so impressed with DryDRINKER’s Dad’s Day calendar for Father’s Day that we couldn’t miss the chance to give them another shout out for their seasonal advent. Featuring a variety of lagers, pilsners, stouts, porters, and IPAs, each with an ABV ranging from 0.0% to 0.5%,  the DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar offers a perfect selection of no and low-ABV craft beers. This would be the ideal gift for the beer lover in your life who wants to countdown to Christmas enjoying all the flavour with none of the buzz.

Cost: £67.95
Cans: 24 x 330ml cans
Find it here: DryDRINKER

So there we have it! We hope this list helps you discover your new favourite festive indulgence and brings plenty of cheer to your countdown to Christmas!

What's the Difference Between Vodka and Gin?

When it comes to spirits in the cocktail world, gin and vodka are top contenders. But people often wonder: is gin just flavoured vodka or is vodka simply gin that hasn’t reached its full potential? It can be confusing so let’s address this topic.

The two spirits share some similarities. Both are clear, colourless, distilled liquids. They’re equally versatile and light, similar in strength, lower in calories when consumed straight compared to other spirits, and easily used in mixed drinks. While gin and vodka can be used interchangeably in cocktails, they have developed distinct personalities, each bringing something unique to the table. 

So if you’ve ever pondered the myths or wondered what sets gin and vodka apart - how flavouring alters them, and other questions, read on…

VODKA: RAW MATERIALS, STYLES & FLAVOURS

NEUTRAL VODKAS 

Vodka is known for its clean, neutral taste. It’s made by mashing base ingredients containing carbohydrates to produce fermentable sugars, which are then fermented with yeast, distilled using a continuous column still, and filtered to remove impurities, resulting in a smooth finish.

In theory, vodka can be made from anything of agricultural origin—a broad definition that allows great flexibility in creating the spirit. In practice, however, most vodka producers today stick to a narrow range of cereal grains due to commercial pressures and consumer expectations. The most common grains used are barley, wheat, and rye, with occasional blending of different grains.

Is vodka made from potatoes, or is that a myth?

In Poland, making vodka from potatoes has been a centuries-old tradition. Since the 15th and 16th centuries, Polish families have produced their own vodkas at home, often flavouring them with fruit and herbs—originally more to mask the harsh alcohol taste than to create a specific flavour profile. So yes, potato vodka is very much a reality because, remember, vodka can be made from any agricultural ingredient!

Try Chase’s Potato Vodka (England)

Today, more commercially produced vodkas come from grain than potatoes.  An outstanding example is the luxury French Vodka, Grey Goose, which started a revolution in the space when they decided to create a neutral vodka from French winter wheat with a distinctive taste rather than try to be flavourless. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £32.90

Try Grey Goose Vodka (France)

There’s a myth that distilling more than once leads to a better product. Grey Goose attempt to dispel that myth by arguing that single distillation helps retain more flavour of the wheat used to make their vodka, which might be lost if distilled again. It is filtered through limestone. Named by the Beverage Tasting Institute the best tasting vodka in the world one year after its release, Grey Goose went on to be a multi-award-winning vodka. Definitely one to sip neat or on the rocks. Outstanding. 

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35

So, there’s another myth dispelled, if you thought all neutral vodkas were odourless and tasteless - not true. Different vodkas can have unique aromas and flavour profiles.

What are some of the more unusual vodkas? 

A couple of noteworthy vodkas that have come to market in recent years using alternatives to grain and potatoes have either been produced to made use of available ingredients or to create a point of difference. 

Try Pod Pea English Vodka (England)

Something a little different from the North of England, this release uses 100% locally sourced peas that are fermented, distilled and bottled in Manchester using a bespoke copper still. Even the bottles are made from sand sourced from the UK to keep its carbon footprint low. Bursting with sweet, vegetal pea notes, a touch of citrus, light savoury tones and a silky finish - this would be perfect for a Martini or Bloody Mary.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.95

Try Ciroc Vodka (France)

Ciroc stands apart in the world of vodka with its unique grape base. Distilled five times (they say for unmatched purity and smoothness), it exudes a subtly sweet flavour profile. Its grape origin not only imparts a delicate nuance but also makes it a perfect complement to Champagne cocktails if you’re looking for a touch of elegance.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £29.99

These are all distinctive vodkas with differently nuanced flavours based on the base ingredients. So perhaps this dispels the myth that all vodka is created equal. 

CHARACTERFUL VODKAS

When it comes to vodka styles, there are simply two: Neutral and Characterful. All of the above recommendations were neutral. Vodka becomes ‘Characterful’ when flavouring is added post distillation through compounding, maceration or redistillation.The spirit retains flavours from the addition of further ingredients post-distillation to give a more mouth-filling texture.

Recipes of honey, fruits and spices have traditionally been used through maceration historically. One well-known flavouring is the aromatic herb ‘bison grass’ well known in Poland.

Try Żubrówka Bison Grass Polish Vodka (Poland)

For centuries, Żubrówka has been intrinsically connected with the bison grass growing in the Białowieża forest in Poland. 60 days of craftsmanship combining century old traditions and state of the art technology are required to create a bottle of Zubrowka. Each bottle of Żubrówka Bison Grass contains a blade of bison grass which is added by hand making Żubrówka truly unique.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £23

Other popular vodka flavours are citrus, vanilla, pepper and even chilli. Inexpensive brands will most likely have been compounded with a bought-in artificial flavouring (such as lime) whereas premium brands are more likely to have sourced a natural botanical for redistillation. With vodka, there is often one predominant flavour to the spirit rather than several combined which keeps it clear and simple. When done well, these can be exceptional spirits with pure and precise flavours.

So what about gin?

UK/EU GINS: RAW MATERIAL, STYLES & FLAVOURS 

Gin’s standout feature is juniper berries which give it that signature piney flavour no other spirit has. Often accompanied by other carefully chosen botanicals like citrus, herbs, and spices, where flavoured vodka’s strength is its simplicity, gin’s is its complexity. Think of a multi-faceted, spicy Christmas cake recipe with a much longer list of ingredients than an average cake. 

So what is gin if it isn’t simply vodka with juniper and other spices added? 

The broadest legal definition of gin in the EU and the UK is that it is crafted by infusing juniper and other botanicals into a ‘neutral grain’ base spirit (min 96% ABV) which is then distilled. The neutral grain alcohol brings lots of warmth but no flavour characteristics so all flavour is derived from the botanical recipe used in production. Any EU/UK gin should have a “predominant taste” of juniper to call it gin, although no tests exist to determine if the taste is predominant so this is open to interpretation. 

As well as the presence of juniper berries (which are actually female seed cones of Juniperus Communis) there is no limit on the other botanicals a distiller can use to create their recipe. Most commonly used botanicals in gin include earthy Angelica Root (which matures the drink and rounds out the edges) and Orris Root (the world’s only natural fixant to combat ‘louching’). Citrus Peel gives the spirit an aromatic lift and Coriander Seeds and any of a number of peppers add warmth. In recent years distillers have continually been innovating new flavours the world over, using an endless variety of botanicals either imported or locally foraged from herb gardens, meadows, orchards, hedgerows and coastal regions for localised specialties. Flavours range from Dry to Earthy to Floral, Citrus to Fruity, Spiced to Sweet, and Herbal to Coastal amongst others. 

The main gin styles are: Juniper-forward, Contemporary, London (Dry) distilled/redistilled/compounded, aged, old tom, navy strength, sloe gin and other liqueurs. See more about gin styles in my December article. As with vodka, artificial flavours can sometimes be added to gin, these are often the coloured liquids, but the best quality gins are those that are made colourless through redistillation of natural ingredients.  

MINIMUM STRENGTHS

Both spirits usually have around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) though vodka’s minimum is 35% and gin’s is 37.5%.

Here are a cross section of gins from the British Isles to sample to highlight how the category is characteristically different to vodka. It’s all about the lovely botanicals.

CLASSIC

Try Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin (England)

A truly iconic gin with a creative spirit produced from an original 1761 recipe. This is a gin with fresh, bright citrus notes, a lively juniper character and an elegant light spicy finish. 

Size: 100cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24

CITRUS

Try Tanqueray No Ten (England)

Fresh grapefruit peels and camomile are key to the wonderful aroma of this luxurious twist on the classic Tanqueray recipe. Distilled in small batches in a tiny copper pot-still, it’s velvety smooth and lovely in a G&T.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 47.3%
Find here: £27

FLORAL

Try Isle of Harris Gin (Scotland)

Isle of Harris Gin features a range of botanicals that have been carefully selected to create and capture the spirit of the landscape, the people and the island. Hand dived sugar kelp is used to balance a total of eight other botanicals including juniper, cassia bark, coriander seed, angelica root, bitter orange peel, cubebs, liquorice root and orris root. The result is a balanced flavour profile that delivers notes of juniper and pine with sweet fruits of mango, grapefruit and orange. Green herbaceous notes are also found, which transitions through to vanilla and a warming black pepper spice on the finish with subtle saline notes carried throughout the gin.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 45%
Find here: £42.95

SPICED

Try Blood Monkey Irish Gin Spice Storm (Ireland)

Winner of Ireland Signature Botanical Gin at the World Gin Awards 2024, we’ll let them do the talking on this one. “This gin boasts a delightful gingerbread aroma complemented by vanilla and lemon tart. The palate experiences a supple mouthfeel with harmoniously integrated flavours of gingerbread and emerging chocolate, underpinned by a growing juniper presence. The finish is characterised by a distinct juniper and earthy rootiness. The nose reveals a lovely maltiness, while the palate enjoys a hint of smokiness and a persistent, appealing malty cereal base."

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £29.83

LONDON DRY GIN

Try Brecon Botanicals Gin (Wales)

Combining a specially selected range of botanicals and the best pure grain spirit, this super-premium multi-award-winning Welsh gin is produced in small batches using only the finest ingredients. It is bottled at 43% abv.

Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Find here: £23.78

So yes, gin begins the distillation process as neutral grain spirit, which is essentially vodka. But what’s interesting is how gin is a category all of its own because gin producers can leverage that base spirit to create something so nuanced and complex. The differences are not just about flavouring. Vodka is all about being clean and neutral which makes it great for mixing with bold flavours. Gin, with its juniper and botanical blend, has a more complex taste with herbal and citrus notes. So, whether you’re into the crispness of vodka or like the flavourful kick of gin and the never ending adventure of varieties, there’s probably a lot more still to explore than you realised.

And as for the drinks you can make with both of these spirits, think beyond using tonic or lemonade as your only mixer and start to dream bigger. Because gin and vodka cocktails are some of the absolute best offerings in the world of mixology. Which of them do you still need to try? 

Ready to go make a cocktail? Check out The Top 10 Winter Vodka Cocktails and The Most Popular Gin Cocktails!

By Robbie Jerram

What is the Pickle Pea Martini?

Vodka can be made from lots of different bases. Usually, we see potato or wheat for example, but never before have we seen peas used. From the dinner plate to the bottle, Pod Pea Vodka, launched by Manchester’s Ten Locks, is turning heads with its eco-friendly approach, enchanting green hue and unique flavour profile. Using sustainably sourced British peas, this vodka not only delivers on taste but also carries environmental benefits: peas need less water and fertilizer compared to traditional vodka crops and even enrich the soil with nitrogen.

The result? A neutral grain spirit blended with pristine Lake District water, offering a smooth, refreshing experience with vibrant vegetal notes, crisp lemon, creamy grain, pepper, and a subtle sweetness. The flavours are perfectly poised between familiar lemon, cream and pepper and that stand out vegetal hint. Packaged with recycled glass and sustainable labels, Pod Pea Vodka isn’t just a green choice—it’s a deliciously responsible one. Perfect on the rocks or in creative cocktails like the one below, it’s the sustainable sip you didn’t know you needed.

It’s fun to sip neat, but the vegetal profile of Pod Pea is begging to be experimented with in cocktails. Meet the Pickle Pea Martini, a cocktail that’s as bold as it is refreshing. The star of the show is Pod Pea Vodka, whose vegetal and citrus notes play beautifully with the tangy brine of pickle juice, while fennel bitters add a whisper of herbal complexity. It’s a real flavour bomb that’s both sophisticated and surprisingly approachable. If you love your vodka and your Martinis, this is the perfect way to try something different.

Ingredients:
50ml Pod Pea Vodka
20ml Pickle juice
2 dashes fennel bitters
Twisted pickle (garnish)

Method:
Stir ingredients in a large mixing glass. It’s important to ensure everything combines homogenously. Next, pour into a chilled Martini glass and garnish with a twisted pickle. Enjoy.

You can find here Pod Pea Vodka (40%) here: £36.99

The Fruity Vodka Flavours You Need to Try

Flavoured vodka can be very hit or miss, but the hits are absolutely delicious. When the clean, crisp purity of straight vodka is respected, and the flavourings aren’t artificial, magic can happen.

So, if you’re a vodka lover looking to mix things up, or a mixologist looking for new ideas, these bottles are a fantastic place to start. They’re innovative and sophisticated expressions that let the true character of the base spirit shine through, complemented by authentic and natural fruit infusions.

Whether you're after a tangy citrus kick, a burst of tropical sunshine, or something entirely unexpected, there's a fruity vodka out there for you.

Chase Aged Marmalade Vodka

Chase Aged Marmalade Vodka is a brilliant pick if you're in the mood for something truly unique. Crafted in England using 100% estate-grown potatoes, this vodka is all about celebrating bold, citrusy flavours. It’s infused with zesty, thick-cut Seville marmalade, giving it a delightful bittersweet orange profile that lingers into a long, tangy finish. The layered orange notes are refreshingly vibrant, with just the right amount of bitter tang—think breakfast marmalade, but with a boozy twist! If you're a fan of experimenting with fruity vodkas, this one’s definitely worth a pour – especially during what’s left of summer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £39.94

Cîroc Pineapple Vodka

Cîroc Pineapple brings a vibrant burst of sunshine to the already iconic Cîroc lineup. Distilled five times from frozen French grapes, this vodka is all about silky smoothness without compromising on character. The pineapple flavour is introduced through crushed fruits, delivering a natural taste of juicy, ripe pineapple rather than artificial flavouring. It’s fantastic sipped solo, but truly shines in simple serves like vodka and lemonade, adding a bright, tropical twist.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%  
Find here:  £31.97

Grey Goose L'Orange Vodka

Forget Duck a l’orange, how about Goose L'Orange? This is a serious masterclass in citrus elegance, crafted using the natural essence of over two pounds of oranges per litre. From the same high-quality French wheat that makes Grey Goose famous Essential oils from fresh oranges are blended with the wheat spirit and distilled to deliver a bold citrus character that’s unmistakably Grey Goose. The result is a vodka with vibrant mandarin zest, faint floral notes, and a clean, elegant finish, with a hint of cracked black pepper. Delight from the first drop to the last.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £40.96

Desi Daru Alphonso Mango Vodka

If you seek out those authentic fruit flavours in your vodka, then look no further. Desi Daru Alphonso Mango Vodka brings a taste of the tropics to your glass, marrying English wheat-based vodka with the irresistibly sweet and aromatic flavour of Indian Alphonso mangoes. And those mangoes come through with such a vibrant authenticity – really impressive. It deserves all the big awards it’s been given. Doesn’t it spark off so many cocktail ideas too?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £37

Black Cow Vodka & English Strawberries Vodka

Black Cow are known for their innovative milk vodka, and now they’ve taken that naturally creamy profile and paired up with the Wimbledon classic – strawberries. It’s a delightful fusion of locally sourced, misshapen and leftover strawberries and their pure milk signature mouthfeel. The result is a lovely balance of crisp lightness and rich fruit and texture. All sweetness is from the fruit, as is that seductive rosy hue. Delish.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £34.46

Virtuous Vodka Bitter Lemon Vodka

Virtuous Vodka Bitter Lemon brings a refreshing twist with its vibrant and zesty character, setting it apart from your typical lemon vodka or even a limoncello. Crafted in Sweden, this organic vodka uses rye as its base spirit and Sicilian lemons to infuse a natural, bright bitterness. Both ingredients are fully organic, and the vodka itself is gluten-free, with no added sugars or preservatives. The result is a pure lemon flavour profile where the zest’s natural sweetness perfectly balances the peel's bitterness, reminiscent of a sharp yet satisfying bitter marmalade.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £30.87

Nicolaus Melon Vodka

Staying in Poland, check out Vestal Black Cherry Vodka. The potato vodka base that Vestal is renowned for brings a creaminess with which luscious black cherry is added to. Sweetness plays off against tart nuance perfectly, with notes of cacao and marzipan creating a surprisingly bakery feel. It’s rich, dark, and sweet but without the sickliness that some cherry liqueurs come with. There’s honestly so many great serves for this, but after trying it on the rocks, it’s delicious with lemonade or cola for drinkers with a sweeter tooth.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £17.99

If flavoured vodka is just not your thing, then we’ve got some super straight down the line recommendations too, with 8 Seriously Smooth Vodkas You Need to Try!

The 7 Trending Vodkas You Need To Try

Beginning in Russia and Eastern Europe, you can now find vodka from almost everywhere. The quality has never been higher, but is there anything more disappointing than trying a bottle on the back of big hype, pouring it over ice, and discovering unpleasant burn or zero character? We’ve gone through the most talked about vodkas out there right now to see what all the fuss is about…

Rachmainoff Vodka

There’s no doubting the reason this vodka is on everyone’s lips… literally. Named after a famous Russian composer, this German vodka hits all the right notes. The standout factor here is the mind-boggling value for money. You’ll find it on the shelves at Lidl for just over £10! For that price tag, it has a really clean feel, good smoothness and softness, and a warm dryness to the finish, earning it impressive awards at competitions. Don’t get us wrong, it isn’t an incredible premium vodka, but when it comes to value, it’s unstoppable.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £11.99

J.J Whitley Blue Raspberry Vodka

J.J Whitley have a number of intriguing flavoured vodkas, such as Toffee Popcorn, Strawberry Cheesecake and this, Blue Raspberry… which is getting people talking. The sweet raspberry is instantly noticeable with the fruity tang following in tow. Sure, it hasn’t got the delicate, nuanced elegance of some high end vodkas, but it’s a fantastic versatile and smooth vodka with fun, fruity flavour and no artificial sweetener.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: £15 (usually more!)

SKYY Vodka

This cobalt blue bottle stands out a mile off. SKYY have been undergoing something of a rebrand over the past few years, refreshing their vodka offering. Pacific minerals from San Francisco, where the brand is founded, enrich the liquid with freshness and unique character. The mouthfeel is very light and airy with gentle pepper and sweetness. It’s solid, neutral vodka that punches above its price point.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £18 (usually more!)

Wyborowa Vodka

Ever popular, this Polish gem was first produced in 1927, and still to this day, every single drop is made there. International awards have been plentiful for almost all of that time, rising to the top of the value categories. There’s a subtle pecan flavour and sweetness thanks to Polish rye, with a velvety mouthfeel. It’s cemented its place in vodka heritage, and is great value for money around that £20 mark.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £18.06

Au Vodka

If one vodka bottle has caught your eye on the shelves, then it’s probably this. Beyond the glimmering gold bottle, this might just be the most talked about vodka in the world. With the help of TikTok fame, ‘Gold Gang’ celebrity endorsements and trendy innovations like colour changing, this vodka is very popular, particularly with younger drinkers. But what about the liquid itself? Well, that contributes towards its staying power too, as it’s 5 times distilled, charcoal filtered and finishes in a high-pressure golf filter chamber. The branding might be love or hate, but the vodka has a pleasing neutrality.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £29.95

Grey Goose Vodka

Grey Goose is one of the most well-known and popular premium vodkas available everywhere, and for good reason. French inside and out, they use winter wheat local to the distillery, before distilling in Picardy and filtering in Cognac. Even Champagne region limestone-filtered water is used. Endless purification happens before the bottle and cork are macerated in the vodka. All of this effort pays off, with gentle floral aromas, creamy flavour, and no burn whatsoever.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.88 (usually more!)

Elit Vodka

Stepping up in price, this ultra-premium Latvian vodka has been making a splash, not least of all since dominating The Beverage Testing Institute’s awards every year. Their freeze filtration is patented, which is rare amongst vodka producers. The vodka is filtered at -18 degrees Celsius, delivering what might be the smoothest vodka in the world. Aniseed and spice bring some supple flavour amongst the creamy mouthfeel. If you want to try vodka that’s guaranteed to be super smooth and a world away from cheap throatburner, this is it.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £46.39

Did you know that white tea and vodka can be a really delicious mix? Perhaps try one of the above with it, or for other tea and alcohol pairings that will surprise you, go here!

10 Irresistible Chocolate Liqueurs For All Spirits Lovers

If no one’s buying you an egg this Easter, then what about a chocolate liqueur? They are the epitome of luxurious indulgence and unquestionably delicious – well, these ten are anyway. Perfect for cocktails, desserts or just with ice, they’re surprisingly versatile too.

Of course, we’ve got sweet treats here, but with whisky, rum, gin, tequila, vodka, absinthe, wine and more involved, this list shows there’s way more to chocolate liqueurs than just their sweetness. Find your favourite spirit and see how the drinks geniuses have blended it with the deliciousness of chocolate below.

The Best Chocolate Cream Liqueurs

Amaz-In Chocolate Créme Liqueur

This is a rich and velvety dream bringing together Grenadian chocolate and Grenadian rum for big hits of chocolate flavour and incredible smoothness. It’s thick and packed with flavour, most noticeably the creamy chocolate of course, but also more delicate hints of tropical fruits rolled in brown sugar from the rum. This could be drunk neat, with a few ice cubes, drizzled into desserts or of course, chocolatey cocktails – think Espresso Martini.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £37.01

Dooley's White Chocolate Liqueur

If chocolate is top of the tree when it comes to indulgence, then surely white chocolate is the angel on the top. Decadent, delicious, and superb value for money, Dooley’s uses Dutch cream and wild berries to bring a touch of zing to the sweet white chocolate. Premium vodka brings some boozy steel, but its neutrality really allows the chocolatey and fruity goodness to star. Desserts, baking, cocktails – this would be difficult to resist.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £14.54

The Best Dark Chocolate Liqueur

Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur

Smooth and sophisticated, you’ll see the striking shape of Mozart on many a bartender’s shelf. Carefully produced with Austrian chocolate, it combines luxurious vanilla and cocoa, a portion of which has even been aged for added depth. It’s very rich but even with just ice, it’s deliciously balanced. It’s won the prestigious top awards in chocolate categories before and is generally considered one of the top choices.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £14.50

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Whisky Lovers

Riverside Dark Chocolate Whisky Liqueur

The ornate bottle of Riverside sets up some lofty expectations for the liquid inside, and it doesn’t disappoint. Dark chocolate flavours intertwine with rich malty character and this famous combination tastes as delicious as you’d expect. If you’ve always found chocolate liqueurs too sweet before, then the dark chocolate brings some great bitterness here that’s mellowed harmoniously by oaky vanilla and caramel notes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £23.52

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Rum Lovers

Rumbullion! Chilli & Chocolate

It looks like we have another stunner of a bottle on our hands – what a gift this would make. Strictly speaking, this leans more on the flavoured rum side of things than liqueur (hence the 42.6% ABV), but rum lovers will adore it all the same. Criollo cocoa nibs, chipotle chilli and jalapeño join the original Rumbullion! notes of vanilla, orange, cassia, clove, and cardamom. The end result is an absolute cockle warmer, with indulgent, rich spices. It’s a really interesting, limited release from Ableforth’s that rum lovers should definitely try.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42.6%
Find here: £27.95

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Gin Lovers

Chocao Cacao Gin Liqueur

This is a distilled cacao gin that’s infused with ethically sourced single origin Peruvian Gran Yapatera cacao nibs and husks, before coming to life when bottled in Staffordshire. It’s less creamy and indulgent and more elegant with super smooth mouthfeel and a fruity and floral profile. The familiar earthy juniper notes are there but they battle it out with bitter dark chocolate and smidges of caramel.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 26%
Find here: £29.99

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Tequila Lovers

Mis Amigos Chocolate Cream Tequila Liqueur

Spotting the potential of earthy agave with rich chocolate, Mis Amigos have produced yummy results. They’re slightly boozier chocolate and tequila liqueur is fantastic too, but now they’ve added extra decadence with chocolate cream. The agave is peppery and grassy which works a treat with the sweet chocolate for a grown-up milkshake vibe.  

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £18.67

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Vodka Lovers

Bouvery CV Chocolate Liqueur

This liqueur was decades in the making, combining four times distilled corn vodka with organic cocoa from three South American countries. It’s noticeably viscous in the mouth as those rich dark chocolate notes coat the mouth deliciously. The vodka provides a warming boozy kick, but it’s the chocolate that feels like it’s melting in the mouth that steals the show.

Size: 350ml
ABV: 16%
Find here: £26.49 (usually more!)

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Absinthe Lovers

La Maison Fontaine Chocolat

The much-misunderstood absinthe is a no brainer to merge with chocolate, and La Maison have made a cracking job of it with this one. It’s inspired by a 1920s recipe for créme de cacao found at the distillery, so the chocolate isn’t as intense as most chocolate liqueurs. It’s quite dry for a liqueur, with the cleansing wormwood and herbal flavours coming through strongly, just coated delicately in milk and dark chocolate. By the time the finish comes around, it’s all absinthe flavour so the journey is completely unique and definitely worth picking up for the inquisitive drinker.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £22.25

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Wine Lovers

Rubis Chocolate Wine

What a sumptuous infusion this is – Spanish Tempranillo with cacao essence for a super decadent fortified wine. We sort of understand why you might be put off, but trust us, the combination completely works because the balance is spot on. On the wine side, cherries and red fruits are delivered, and all coated with the perfect amount of chocolate flavour.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £13.94 (usually more!)

For all the chocoholics over Easter, try matching them up with some heavenly drinks pairings – you might surprise yourself!

The Rhubarb Crush

How about this for a Valentine’s Crush? Keeping it simple, it’s a Franklin & Sons recipe that’s essentially a twist on a classic vodka lemonade. Of course, you could include extra touches like elderflower liqueur or vanilla syrup, but if you get yourself quality ingredients, simple can be best. Franklin & Sons have been leading the way with mixers since the Victorian times, and their spring rhubarb lemonade is zesty, fragrant, and refreshing with lemon juice and sparkling water. Get yourself a stunning vodka to go with, make it look beautiful with some flowers and voila, a crisp Rhubarb Crush for Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day.

Ingredients (for 1)

50ml vodka
Top up with Rhubarb Lemonade (Franklin & Sons)
 Edible flowers

Method
1.      Pour out chilled vodka over ice.
2.      Top up with rhubarb lemonade.
3.      Stir gently to keep the bubbles going.
4.      Sprinkle some edible flowers.
5.      Enjoy!

If you’re still going strong with Dry January, then how about these Delicious Winter Mocktails? Or if you’re interested in more Frankin & Sons mixers to spruce up your serves then check out these.