What is London Dry Gin and which ones should I try?!

Words by Leigh Andrews

Whether you are a classic gin enthusiast or favour the flavour, we are all familiar with the term ‘London Dry’ that graces our bottles - but what does it actually mean? Well, hold on to your school caps folks, here’s what you need to know and some delicious bottles you need to try!

Is London Dry Gin only made in London?

Unlike Plymouth Gin, which can only be made in Plymouth, London Dry doesn’t have to be distilled in London. It actually relates to the distilling process itself, which given the capital’s vast gin making history and the fact that this particular distillation technique (apparently) originated in London, the name stuck.

What is London Dry Gin?

To be called a London Dry, the base neutral spirit must be of an agricultural origin such as grain, potatoes and sometimes, even milk! It needs to be distilled to 96% alcoholic volume. This spirit is then redistilled with its plant botanicals, of which the lead must be juniper to create the gin profile we all know and love. You can’t add any flavourings or botanicals after distillation (sorry flavoured gin fans!) only water, and because it must be dry you can only add a minute amount of sweetening if any. 

So now you can wow your friends with your new found gin geek knowledge, here are some excellent London Dry gins you can impress them with at your next get together!

Which London Dry Gin Should I Try?

Whitby Gin Original

Nestled in the heart of the seaside town that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this award winning glorious gin has depths deeper than Dracula’s tomb! It’s distilled using locally foraged sugar kelp from the rich seas around Robin Hood’s Bay just 6 miles from Whitby, local honey and heather from the North Yorkshire Moors. The dry juniper is beautifully balanced with a citrus background against a herbaceous floral sweetness. Try it neat over ice (yes it is that smooth) or with your favourite tonic and a slice of red grapefruit or a sprig of rosemary to bring out the herby notes…..no garlic though unless you want to keep Dracula, and all your friends, at bay!

ABV: 42%
Size: 700ml
Find here: UK £37.95

Beefeater London Dry

An absolute classic in the world of London dry, great with a mixer and can hold its head high in a martini. Don’t bypass Beefeater because of its fantastically affordable price point. This gin is steeped in tradition! The botanicals are still weighed out by hand and not to mention it’s full range of gins are stocked in the Yeomans bar within the Tower of London - we have witnessed it first hand, the Beefeaters really do drink Beefeater! Still made in London using the original 200 year old recipe this gin features the zestiness of Seville oranges and lemon peel, the warm spiciness of coriander, liquorice and angelica with beautiful floral notes. All under an umbrella and bowler hat of Juniper, this is what London Drys are made of! Serve in a copa glass full of ice, with tonic and a slice of orange and lemon or in a classic gin martini with dry vermouth and a twist of lemon peel.

ABV: UK 40% // US 45%
Size: UK 700ml // US 1.75L
Find Here: UK £16.78 // US $29.99

Sweet Potato London Dry Gin

Even just the name of this glorious gin makes you want to try it just to see if it really does have sweet potatoes in it! In short, yes it does, and what an addition it is. Whoever thought of putting sweet potato as a gin botanical, together with cardamom, coriander and lemon zest, needs a pat on the back. This gin is smooth and aromatic with a classic strong juniper forefront, a deep earthy vanilla heart and a glorious finish of lemon cheesecake with florals lingering on the palate. With a punchy 45% ABV, this is another London Dry that you can easily have neat as well as in a G&T with a light tonic and a citrus slice, or with soda, grapefruit peel and a sprig of mint.

ABV: 45%
Size: 500ml
Find Here: UK £27.99

NB London Dry Gin

This London Dry comes with some serious credentials! Previously voted the Best London Dry Gin in the world, it was selected by the Royal family to represent her majesty's 90th birthday. More recently it featured at Prince Harry and Meghan's wedding, was listed in the Rolls Royce "Top 100 Brands", AND was selected for the afterparties for ‘The Open’ 2018 and ‘The Brits’ for three consecutive years. This gin can do nothing but live up to the hype! You’d think this was some massive corporate distillery entrenched in a big brand, but no- NB’s distillery is family-run and nestles just off the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick, Scotland. You can happily spend a lost afternoon on their tasting tour in a beautifully relaxing lounge area (which can even be hired for a special occasion!) and enjoy this fantastic London Dry. This is a ‘no messing’ gin with a Juniper and herbal nose, lemon citrus on the palate and a light spicy finish. It is definitely a gin shelf staple! Glorious with a light tonic and a twist of red grapefruit zest.

ABV: 42%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £27.50

Little Bird London Dry

Another of our London based London Dry gins, but we definitely didn’t pick this one purely because of location. This gin sings everything classic vintage and that includes the recipe, the bottle and the foundation of its beginnings. Friends gathered together, chatting about what their perfect gin would be and making it happen. The bottle itself features a 1940’s style redhead tattooed pinup on the label named “Miss Ginger'', and the spirit inside is just as nostalgic. Not surprisingly given the label, ginger features beside pink grapefruit and orange peel for superb crisp citrus on the nose. Glorious grapefruit with the warming ginger on the palate, light florals, juniper and that citrus lingering on. For fans of citrus forward London Dry gins, this one is an absolute cracker. Serve with Mediterranean tonic, loads of ice and a pink grapefruit wheel.

ABV: 40.6%
Size: 700ml
Find here: UK £29.45 

Fuzzy Duck Distillery London Dry (Hero)

There is nothing fuzzy about the fabulous flavours in this new kid on the block. This ethically run distillery, founded by four friends with an aim to use locally sourced, seasonal British produce is more than achieving its aims. Holding on to the forefront of juniper as is classic of a London Dry, we then get aromas of the mediterranean, citrus and a light spice. This is a beautifully bold gin and can hold its own in character and style. The suggested serve with rosemary, blackberries and mediterranean tonic truly compliment the botanicals in this gin and take us from this awful winter weather to sunshine, herb gardens and lazy afternoons.

ABV: 42%
Size: 500ml and 700ml
Find here: UK £27 to £30

Liked this? How about having a read of these 8 delicious Scottish Gins or these Best Gins for a Martini

Ardbeg's New Release: Fermutation

Words by Colin Hampden White

Every now and again Ardbeg releases a whisky just for members of their committee (anyone can join the committee) and this February saw the release of Fermutation.

Apparently this was the result of a lucky mistake. A fermentation was left to run for far too long by mistake, in fact it was the longest fermentation ever run at Ardbeg. Rather than ditch the mistake, Dr Bill decided to distil it and this 13 year old is the result.

This long fermentation was created in November 2007 by a broken boiler which couldn’t be fixed, and rather than stopping the fermentation running at the time, Dr Bill decided to experiment. He quickly told the distillery team to open up the washback lids exposing the contents to the air. This was the start of a three week fermentation. A normal fermentation at Ardbeg is around 72 hours.

One gets the feeling that the results were not just down to luck. Some quick thinking and a desire to experiment certainly helped. The resulting whisky is still smoky, but is more in harmony with the fruity flavours which are citrus forward and as Dr Bill put it “Zingy”.

Dr Bill is well known for experimentation, and he’s always wanted to experiment with longer fermentation, but he admits what an experiment of this length of time would never have happened without the faulty boiler.

It went on sale to the committee earlier this month, and sold quickly. It can be found at auction and some retailers have it at inflated prices. But the best way to even have a chance of bottles in the future, is to join the committee which any lover of Ardbeg can do here on-line.

ABV: 49.4%
Size: 700ml
Price £150 (on release), expect £250 and upwards at auction or future retail.

Fun Drinks Choices for Valentine’s Day

Drinks picked by Helena

Valentine's day, Galentine's day or ‘I'm just going to give myself some love’ day can be a stressful time with all the pressure to HAVE FUN. Fear not, though! I have donned my cupid cape and found 8 fun drinks and drinks gifts that are perfect for Valentine’s Day, whichever element of it you are celebrating!

Spirits

Personalised London Dry Gin & Single Malt Whisky

The Whisky Exchange are offering a customisable London Dry Gin and a stunning, customisable, Sherry finished, single malt whisky for you to gift a loved one this V day. For each, you can choose from six label designs and ten messages - or simply write your own text! The gin is crisp and refreshing; a classic London Dry with lots of citrus and juniper. The whisky is rich and round with notes of dried fruit, caramel and Christmas cake. Prices include personalisation and gift tube.

Gin: ABV 44%, Size 700ml, £39.95
Whisky: ABV 48%, Size 700ml, £54.95 

Ballycastle Red Velvet Cream Liqueur

Fans of Baileys Irish cream will love this, especially those who have enjoyed their new Red Velvet version and are looking for something less pricey. Aldi’s version is an indulgent blend of double cream, spirit and red velvet cake, serve it chilled over ice with a strawberry if you can find one. Forget dessert, This IS your dessert!

Find it in-store for £7.25 (700ml)

Mermaid Pink Gin Gift Set

The Isle of Wight Distillery is rapidly building an excellent reputation thanks to their stunning range of gins, vodka and rum that are all plastic-packaging free. This pink gin combines the flavour of fresh, Isle of Wight strawberries with their famously smooth, aromatic and complex gin and the bottle could not be prettier! If you want to take your gifting to the next level, however, then seek out their gift set, which includes a bottle of the Mermaid Pink Gin (70cl) and two gold-plated, gorgeous, copa glasses. 

Gin: ABV 38%, Size 700ml, £39.90
Gift pack: ABV 44%, Size 700ml, £65.50

Wine

Specially Selected Sparkling Shiraz

A sparkling red? Yes, for something a little different. Try this slightly chilled. It’s one of the rare style of red wine that goes with chocolate too (the darker the better). Sparkling Shiraz has been an Aussie no-so-well-kept-secret for a while! It will take you for Valentine’s day into summer barbecues in the sunshine too and this onen is awesome value.

ABV: 13.5%
Size: 750ml
Price: £6.99
Find here: Aldi

Coral Ethical Rosé Wine

This delicate, Spanish pink is an organic and vegan-friendly rosé wine with Tempranillo grapes in a carbon-neutral winery and packaged in an ultra-light bottle that uses recycled and recyclable materials. Think aromatic notes of grapefruit and strawberry with a refreshing, peachy palate. 10% of its profits are also donated to the restoration and conservation of coral reefs, which represent 25% of marine biodiversity. A rosé with heart!

ABV: 12.5%
Size: 750ml
Price: From £9.99
Find here: Abel & Cole, Adnams, Amazon.co.uk

W/O Frappato, Terre Siciliane, IGT 2020

A little taste of Sicily in a ‘wild glass’, which means glass bottles that are 100% post-consumer recycled. The first in the UK to do this! It does mean that each bottle is slightly different with a minimalist,easily  biodegradable label. Frappato is a native grape to Sicily and it offers a comforting, rustic red that’s all about spicy red fruit compote notes. It’s an unpretentious, comfort  blanket of a wine! Your new go-to week day favourite. 

ABV: 13.5%
Size: 750ml
Price: From £11.99/bottle or £9.99 for 6
Find here: Laithwaites

Specially Selected Amarone della Valpolicella D.O.C.G 2018

Amarone is a great choice for those looking for a rich and velvety red wine this Valentine's day. Think dark cherries dipped in melted dark chocolate and spice. Delicious! This is part of Aldi’s impressive ‘Specially Selected’ range and for an Amarone, it is excellent value. It even sounds like the Italian word for love: ‘Amore’. Yes please! I’ll have a glass of that.

ABV: 15%
Size: 750ml
Price: £19.99
Find here: ALDI

Bubbles

Codornìu Cava Rosé  NV

Codornìu is the big name in Cava, producing a fantastic range of traditional method bubbles in all sorts of styles and at all price points. It is fantastic value for some classic Spanish bubbles, with a herbaceous nose and a crunchy, red cherry tang. This is definitely a winner with all sorts of food.  

ABV: 12%
Size: 750ml
Price: £9
Find here: Ocado

Splash out: Veuve Clicquot Rosé

The widow ‘Veuve’ Clicquot invented rosé wine so this really is the original! A super special bottle where the Pinot -Noir dominant wine is the most elegant pink colour and super silky, with delicately complex aromas and flavours of brioche, summer fruits, toast and apricot. This is truly a fizz to savour; give it time to let it open up in the glass and enjoy!

ABV: 12.5%
Size: 750ml
Price: £49
Find here: Tesco

If you enjoyed this, then don’t forget to have a look at our other wine and spirits recommendations!

Great Scotch Whisky for Burns Night!

Words by Colin Hampden-White

Burn’s Night is always a good excuse for whisky lovers to open up their favourite bottles and celebrate the Scottish poets life and works over a few drams and haggis. Here are some of my favourite whiskies aged 13 to 18 years which won’t break the bank and one special dram which I think most people would like. From those just starting out on their whisky journey to seasoned travellers on the whisky road. There are some classics, some newbies and a couple of unusual bottles here, but they have one thing in common. They are all delicious.

Craigellachie 13 Year Old

Back in 2014, Craigellachie released a new core range of whiskies, all with prime numbers as age statements reflecting the maverick edge to the brand. The 13 year old was the beginning, and it was a very good start. One of the few whiskies I will always have on a shelf, I’ll be starting my Burn’s night celebrations with one of these. Lots of character, plenty of fruit and bold intense flavours whilst remaining smooth and easy to drink.

ABV: 46%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £46.99 // US $64.99

The Balvenie 14 Year Old Caribbean Cask

This is probably the best expression of whisky finished in rum casks. Spending the beginning of its life in ex-bourbon casks giving vanilla and toffee flavours, the rum cask finish brings in banana and other tropical notes. The rum casks were filled with rum that malt master David Stewart had blended to give lots of complexity and sweetness. I find this whisky pairs well with a great number of foods but goes especially well with haggis.

ABV: 43%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £56.95 // US $100.99

Tamdhu 15 Year Old

Tamdhu is the king of sherry cask maturation on Speyside being the only distillery which uses only ex-Sherry casks for all its whisky. This 15 year old gives all those who love a sherry bomb enough of a kick whilst remaining balanced and fruity for those just getting into sherried whisky. There are lots of dark fruit flavours and plenty of Christmas spice from the ex-Oloroso Sherry casks. Perfect for smoked salmon or a well-seasoned haggis.

ABV: 46%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £74.95 // US $119.99

Fettercairn 16 2021 (2nd release)

This second release of a 16 year old from Fettercairn is very different from the 1st release. There is no use of chocolate malt in this expression and lots of expertly blended sherry casks. Three different types of sherry casks were used: first fill Oloroso, refill Oloroso and first fill Palo Cortado Sherry Butts. This marriage of casks gives lots of complexity and balance from the fruity spirit and spicy oak. It’s definitely one to savour. Leaving the whisky in the glass to air for twenty minutes or so will bring extra complexity and nuance.

ABV: 46.4%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £64.95

Deanston 2002 17 year old Pinot Noir Cask Finish

This is a sophisticated dram. There are lots of vanilla notes and fudge from the first maturation in American oak, and orchard fruits from the spirit, all backed up with plenty of fresh red fruit flavours and grape notes from the second maturation in the Pinot Noir casks. The distillery character is still prevalent, but there is so much more to this expression that their core range delivers. Definitely, a dram worth spending that little bit extra on.

ABV: 50%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £110

Johnnie Walker 18

I believe this is a whisky all whisky lovers will enjoy. It is a blend of at least 18 whiskies including Cardhu, Glen Elgin and Blair Athol which are all favourites of mine. This used to be known as the Platinum label, but by giving it the age statement back gives clarity that this is a whisky of good age. With lots of fruity flavours, clear honey and gentle wisps of smoke this is a real crowd pleaser, and is astonishingly good value for an eighteen year old dram.

ABV: 40%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £52.84 // US $79.99

Tomintoul 19 Year Old Port Pipe Matured Cask No.1

At the end of a Burn’s Night evening when a few different whiskies may have been consumed, something with a little punch is needed, and this whisky delivers. It is big and bold having been matured for all its life in a single port pipe which has imparted huge flavour into the spirit. Only 753 bottles were produced in 2020, and there are a few left. It gives lots of plums and creamy toffee with summer red fruits leading to dried fruits like raisins before giving way to peppery spice and a brilliantly balanced spice and sweetness all the way through the finish. It’s an absolute belter!

ABV: 57%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £175.95

Enjoy the whiskies, the haggis, the poetry and the bagpipes (there is always Spotify), but above all enjoy the company. Happy Burn’s night to you all. Slàinte Mhath.

Has all this whisky talk got you wishing you were in Scotland? If so, make sure you have a read of these brilliant Scotch Whisky Distillery Tours!

Brilliant Rye Whiskies

Words by Colin Hampden-White

Over the last few years, there has been a huge rise in the popularity of rye whisky. Not only from the USA but from all over the world. These Whiskies are not one-off oddities, they are truly great spirits and although they may not be American, they have all the flavour, complexity, and balance of their cousins across the Atlantic. And in some cases, even more so. I have recently found four which completely blew me away with their originality, flavour, and sheer deliciousness. There are two countries in particular that are creating fantastic rye whiskies, and two distilleries I think have been excelling over the last couple of years, Denmark and England.

Stauning

Stauning Rye

There are two Rye whiskies I have tried recently from Stauning and both of them were fabulous. Firstly, their main expression, Stauning Rye. It is made from Malted Danish barley and rye which is floor malted at the distillery. It is distilled on open fired stills and matured in new American oak barrels. The spirit has the typical spicy flavours one expects from rye, with a slight oiliness, but what stood out for me was the smoothness and balance. It is very easy to drink and is a sophisticated whisky, which rye quite often isn’t.

ABV: 48%
Size: 700ml
Price: £56.95

Stauning El Classico

Secondly, I tried the El Classico. This whisky started out as an experiment and ended up being absolutely brilliant. It is the first rye whisky to be matured in vermouth casks, and it is a match made in heaven. The casks give a perfect balance of bitter and sweet which makes this whisky incredibly versatile. I tried it neat at first, and then in a Manhattan and both were excellent. I am sure it would work very well in many whisky cocktails.

ABV: 45.7%
Size: 700ml
Price: £59.95

Moving from mainland Europe, I had a couple of favourites from an English distillery. This distillery is making whisky from ancient grains as there are so few places growing these grains. In fact, those that do are either making artisanal bread or growing for this distillery. Therefore, there is not a lot of grain and consequently not a lot of whisky. Made in annual batches, the last two batches have been particularly impressive.

The Oxford Artisan Distillery

Batch 4: The Graduate

The name of this whisky says it all. And boy has it graduated. The level of complexity for a young whisky is very good, and the balance of sweet fruit, oak and peppery rye is perfect. Rich enough to be sipped at leisure, it is also a great base for a cocktail, especially the king of rye cocktails, the Manhattan. This has been made with mostly rye, but also some heritage wheat, oats and even thistles! Aged in American oak casks of various sizes and toasting levels, it packs flavour and at 51.3% the flavour is delivered to the palate seamlessly.

ABV: 51.3%
Size: 700ml
Price: £89.95

Batch 5: Red Red Rye

The grain for this four year old whisky was harvested in 2017 and was made with a mash bill of 90% Maslin; a blend of 70% rye and 20% wheat which were grown in the same field a few miles from the distillery, and 10% malted barley. Adding to this complexity were three different cask types. It started life in two American oak ex-bourbon casks which were then married together into an ex-Pedro Ximenez Sherry butt. This was then split into two vintage Port barriques for the end of its maturation. As well as being complex and smooth, the batch has a deep red hue to the whisky from the Port barriques. It is rich in fruit, but still holds that peppery oily rye character. There were only 600 bottles produced and you can only buy them from the distillery shop.

ABV: 46.4%
Size: 700ml
Price: £150

There are plenty of other rye whiskies in Europe which are also very good and well worth a try. Two others to mention are Millstone in the Netherlands and Adnams Rye Malt from England. If you’d like to learn more about them and some of their American cousins, take a look at this article all about rye.

The best no and low alcohol drinks

‘Tis the season to let your hair down, which, let’s be honest, usually means indulging in a fair few drinks of the alcoholic variety! For those of you who are looking to moderate or who would just rather drink something non-boozy that actually tastes nice however, we have picked some of our favourite non alcoholic and low alcohol drinks that will still make you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special. Let us know your picks!

Sentia spirits

Sentia is a plant based alcohol-free spirit with a difference. Using special ingredients, it enhances GABA activity in your brain, leading to a feeling of relaxation and calm without the need of alcohol to get you there. It’s floral, bittersweet and has a spiced berry finish. Try mixing it into a non-alcoholic mulled wine – it tastes great! An acquired taste for some, think bitter berry and lavender with cinnamon spice and a hot, ginger kick

Size: 500ml
Price: £30
Find here: sentiaspirits.com

Savyll Non-alcoholic Cocktails

With so many non-alcoholic cocktails out there, it can be really daunting trying to pick your way through them which is why we were so excited when we came across Savyll cocktails. Every detail from the stunning packaging to the liquid inside has been carefully thought about leading to a great selection of vegan-friendly, gluten free, ready to serve cocktails. From an alcohol free G&T to an Old Cuban, there is a delicious cocktail for everyone. Not too sweet and they taste just like what they are supposed to be.

Size: 250ml
Price: 6x250ml cans £11.99 // 4 x 250ml bottles £13.99
Find here: Savyll.com

Wild Life Botanicals Sparkling Wine

One of Helena’s favourites, let us re-introduce you to Wild Life Botanicals - stunning ‘bubbles with benefits’ hailing from Cornwall. Infused with a mix of vitamins, minerals and botanicals, including Lemon Balm, Damask Rose and Rosemary, each 125ml glass contains 15% of your recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals and it is only 0.5% alcohol, meaning you sit back and feel really good about what’s in your glass.

Size: 750ml
Price: £15
Find here: wildlifebotanicals.co.uk

Crossip Rich Berry

Ever fancied trying your hand at a non-alcoholic cocktail but not been sure what ingredients to use? Well, if a hot toddy or even some mulled wine sounds appealing then you can’t go wrong with Crossip Rich Berry. It’s full of delicate spice alongside rich notes damson, blackberry and sour cherry that are a delight on the tastebuds. This one has a lovely viscosity too which means you could sip it alone. Check out their website for more serving ideas as well as their range of other delicious non-alcoholic drinks.

Size: 500ml
Price: £22
Find here: crossipdrinks.com

Blurred Vines ‘Spark’ & ‘Sharp’ by Three Spirit

We’ve been big fans of Three Spirit for some time so we were really excited when they brought out their non-alcoholic, sparkling, cold brew drinks. Lucky for us, they didn’t disappoint! ‘Spark’ is a fizzy elegant, floral, yeasty number made from a base of sake with spice from cayenne and sancho pepper and ripe fruit flavours of gooseberry and strawberry. ‘Sharp’ as the name suggests, is more crisp, mineral and elegant with a citrissy finish.

Size: 750ml
Price: £32 as a duo
Find here: Threespiritdrinks.com

Hofmeister Ultra Low Lager

Hofmeister beers are back with a bang and they are blimmin’ brilliant. This ultra low (0.5% ABV) is perfect for times like these when quantity increases, but you don’t want the hangover. Made with mineral water, locally sourced barley and Hallertau Hops, it’s full-bodied, sweet, fresh, grassy and hoppy with  and bready notes a good crisp finish. Highly drinkable.

Size: 330ml
Price: £17.99 for 12
Find here: hofmeister.co.uk

Sassy Organic Cider  

Sassy seems to have cracked the market, making Cider cool again. Partly, this is because they have got their packing right but really, it’s because the products are so good. Refreshing and tangy, try the Cidre Rosé for punchy, red apple fun that’s only 3% ABV. Gorgeous.

Size: 750ml
Price: £32 for 6 bottles
Find here: MaisonSassy.com

Lyre’s Italian Spirit

Lyre’s have smashed it with this Italian ‘spritz’ that is the perfect non-alcoholic version of Aperol, only slightly more interesting. Can we say that?! Oops, we just did. Check out the rest of their range of non-alcoholic versions of classics such as Vermouths, Triple Sec, Coffee liqueurs, Gins, Amaretto and more. 

Size: 700ml
Price: £23.50
Find here: Lyres.co.uk

Want more guides? Here is our Luxury Whisky guide, our affordable red wine guide, affordable white wine guide, gin guide, rum guide and cheeseboard advice!

The Best Luxury Whisky to Gift

Words by Colin Hampden-White 

There are many things I love about Christmas, but the one thing I love the most is the number of new releases and extensions to core ranges that are released in the world of whisky. Especially that nowadays, the world of whisky really does mean the world over. Even through lockdown I have managed to metaphorically travel the globe within the world of whisky. This Christmas I’d like to share with you my favourite luxury whiskies, after all it’s a time of year we like treat those, we love. I’ll begin with my first love, Scotch, and then take you on a little journey to all four corners of the globe in a veritable concoction of exotic flavours.

Scotch

The Glenturret Manager Dram  

Created by distillery manager Ian Renwick, who is known to like peated whisky, he took three American and European oak casks of peated whisky and married them together to create this beautifully sweet peated whisky. With only 500 bottles produced, this is very limited, but there is still some left in the distillery shop.

ABV: 53%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £145

Glen Moray 1998 Barolo Finish Warehouse 1

This is Glen Moray, but not quite as we know it. It has the typical honey and orchard fruits we love in Glen Moray, but it also has a whole lot more. The finishing in Barolo gives the whisky a greater richness. Red fruits are plentiful and arrive on the palate as fresh and confected fruits. Red wine gums are the predominant fruit flavour with lots of sweetness and toasted oak.  A morish whisky which expands the already eclectic wine finished whiskies created by Glen Moray. With only 863 bottles released, I’d make a b-line for one sooner rather than later.

ABV: 52.9%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £143.16

Glenmorangie Signet

I know I extol the virtues of Glenmorangie Signet a lot, but that’s because it is so good. Made by using a small percentage of Chocolate Malt, which is heavily roasted malted barely, this whisky epitomises luxury in a glass with lots of coffee and chocolate flavours alongside manuka honey, toasted oak and soft gentle spices. One of my favourite whiskies of all time and if I’m asked for any recommendations for a special present for someone, this is always on my list. The bottle looks and feels special too with great design, more akin to a premium Cognac to Scotch, it feels special from start to finish.

ABV: 46%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £143.48

Jura 18

This is one of my favourite whiskies from Jura and I think it represents the best value on the planet for an 18 year old whisky. It will not stay at this price for long so stock up whilst you can, I have! Created from a mixture of American and European oak it is rich and smooth with plenty of complexity in the form of fresh and dried fruits. With a subtle touch of spice and fine toasted oak, this whisky punches well above its weight and is certainly a luxury dram.

ABV: 44%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £59.14

Talisker 18  

This is another whisky which is great value at the moment but will be increasing in price very soon. The current stock of this whisky is selling quickly and is already hard to find. Whisky Online still has some at a little more than the original price. When the restock comes next year expect Talisker 18 to be at least 25% more expensive.

ABV: 45.8%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £87

Raasay Single Malt

A new whisky to come to market this year, Raasay has been making waves. Distilled in the western isles of Scotland Raasay is a complex whisky especially considering it isn’t very old. It is also brilliant value for a luxury whisky. I’ve had this whisky in plenty of blind tastings and it is always mistaken for a much more expensive whisky. With lots of red fruits, vanilla fudge and touches of pepper and chocolate, all wrapped up in a sweet cloak of peat and smoke, this is a smooth whisky which is definitely worth trying.

ABV: 46.4%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £48

The Dalmore Port Wood Reserve  

The Dalmore must be one of the few whiskies which everyone associates with luxury. Known for creating whiskies with lots of sherry influence this expression is no different, with lots of Christmas cake aromas and flavours and plenty of spice. What makes this one a little different is the port wood which adds a layer of complexity and deep red fruit flavour, think plumbs and dark cherries. Bottled at an above average strength this whisky is still very smooth. So rather than pass the port this Christmas, try passing the port wood reserve.

ABV: 46.5%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £74.95

World Whisky

Oxford Artisan Distillery The Graduate

The Oxford Artisan Distillery makes their whiskies with ancient grains, and they have so little that they must batch their whiskies. This one is the 6th of their releases and is made with Rye. The colour of the whisky is deep amber, and the flavours are not only typical of rye with oily peppery notes, but also have plenty of underlying fruit and rich toasted oak. A new distillery which is going from strength to strength with every release. And they make a great gin too!

ABV: 51.3%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £89.95

Bushmills 2000  

This expression is a part of the causeway collection from Bushmills. It takes the usual flavours one expects from Bushmills and Irish whisky and turns the volume up. It is rich and complex, and left to build on the palate a huge wave of exotic tropical fruit comes through. A truly luxury Irish whisky and with old Irish malt whisky continuing to rise in price, these will never by found for these prices again. A real treat for this holiday season.

ABV: 54.1%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £259.95

Stauning Rye

Last year I was loving Rye whisky from Stork. This year I’ve been enjoying another European rye whisky but this time from Denmark rather than Germany. With big oily peppery flavours mixed with cooked fruits and sweet oak from fresh barrels, this Rye has a luxury feel and flavour. I would say savour it, but it is so moreish I suspect it won’t last that long on anyone’s shelf.

ABV: 48%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £56.95

Cotswolds Sherry Cask

This is one of the best sherry cask whiskies I tasted in 2021. Not just one of the best from the new world of whisky, but one of the best from everywhere, including Scotland. It delivers the spicy, Christmas cask flavours with such beautiful balance one doesn’t notice it is over 57% ABV. Rich with lots of dried and fresh fruit from both the oak and spirit, it is no doubt a luxury whisky and is an ongoing expression in the Cotswolds core range. So once you’ve tried it this Christmas, it will be there next year for you to enjoy even more.

ABV: 57.4%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £62.95

Kavalan solist Amontillado Sherry Cask

Kavalan produce quite a few single cask ex sherry whiskies, and this is one of my favourites. Not as heavy as an Oloroso sherry cask and not as light as a ex Fino cask, this whisky has a flavour profile which runs right down the middle. There are Christmas cake flavours and spice, but also zesty lemon and a very slight salinity to it. Extremely complex and the epitome of luxury coming from Taiwan.   

ABV: 55.6%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £360

Johnnie Walker Masters of Flavour

Jim Beverage, the Master Blender at Diageo, the creator of Johnnie Walker is about to retire at the end of this year. His last creation, made with the assistance of the whole blending team at Diageo is a 48 year old blended whisky. Masters of Flavour is quite a whisky and tops my luxury whisky for Christmas 2021. Out of most of our reach, but for those who can, should. Only 283 bottles were created, and it is one of the greatest blended whiskies I have tried. Sweet at first, with a complex mix of honey, but clear and crystalline, leading to fresh fruits, then dried with a touch of smoke then building up on the palate. The finish is extraordinarily long, but not drying. Using seven whiskies from Port Dundas, Brora, Glen Albyn, Glenury Royal, Blair Athol, Dalwhinnie and Camronbridge, it is a remarkable whisky to end a difficult year.

ABV: 41.8%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £20,000

Looking for more? We also have Christmas gin, rum, white wine, red wine and gift sets guides available!

Great Drinks Gift Ideas for Christmas

Words by Ana Patterson

Merry Christmas all! Get ready to panic shop in 3, 2, 1…

…or perhaps not? Trying to decide what to get for those hard-to-buy-for friends and family members is a tough chore and not something you want to be dealing with this late in the game. Put down that pen and paper, stop scratching your head and start reading our 2021 Christmas Gift Guide!

Coravin Pivot

Throw away your old, simple bottle stoppers this minute – Coravin Pivot is on the scene! If you know a friend or family member who likes to drink nice wine, the Coravin Pivot is going to be a lifesaver for them. It allows one to stopper a wine bottle without letting it oxidise, meaning you can preserve a bottle of wine for up to 4 weeks – ensuring the last glass is as amazing as the first.

Find here: £99 (on offer from £119) 

Dottie’s Luxury Espresso Martini Christmas Gift Set

Dottie’s is all about premium coffee when it comes to their ready-to-drink Espresso Martinis, meaning they’re full of flavour and super delicious! Pour straight into a glass and wait a minute for the crema to settle and pop a coffee bean on the top. This is the first real, premium espresso martini in a can you can buy! The gift set comes with two cans of their famous Espresso Martini and two beautifully crafted Italian crystal coupe glasses. Decadence at its very best!

Find it here: £39

Majestic’s Ultimate Christmas Wine Club

Majestic have scored a blinder with gifting AND sorting Christmas dinner this year. Welcome to the Majestic Wine Club: a 12-bottle case of hand picked wine for Christmas which can be bought as a one off purchase or as part of a subscription. The case includes Champagne, Crémant, a selection of big, comforting reds and an epic tawny port. Each bottle is new and exclusive to Majestic and the case comes with education materials, an attractive guide and links to video tasting guides. The ‘Wine Club’ case is available on a strictly limited run.

Order here for £159 by 23/12/21 for pre-Christmas delivery

Banks Brothers Wine Discovery Set

Chef Tommy Banks and his brother James launched these premium wines in a can earlier this year to rapturous applause from wine professionals. They are genuinely fantastic. If you have an indecisive wine lover in your life, then this wine discovery set is exactly what they need this Christmas. It comes with 7 different wines inside beautifully designed cans. You’ll receive a Syrah Mourvèdre, a Chardonnay, a Riesling, a Grenache Blanc, a Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz blend and a Pinot Noir. If you’ve ever wanted to try spotting the difference between different types of wine, this is a great place to start! 

Find it here: £40 for 6, £78 for 12 

STIR-UP Cocktail Subscription Club

STIR-UP is all about going on journey of discovery through the world of classic cocktails with the freshest ingredients, the finest spirits and expert tricks and tips to finesse your creations. Beautifully packaged, with a monthly delivery of individual ingredients for 4 cocktails, each box costs from £34.95 and is delivered directly through your door. No waste, super fun and the perfect reason to get together with friends. We love the Blackberry Old Fashioned and the Mai Tai. Yum!

Find it here from £34.95

M&S Marksologist Ready-to-Drink Cocktails

Ready-to-drink cocktails are the perfect gift as the lucky receiver can open up the bottle and have a taste right then and there! The M&S Christmas Elves have been hard at work this year and have provided us with 6 different cocktails! There’s a Clover Club, Old Fashioned, Passionstar Martini, Espresso Martini, Negroni and a Verdita Margarita. You can either buy the cocktails separately or in a case of 6.

Find it here: £18 for 500ml, £108 for all 6 

OTO CBD Cocktail Bitters

Without a doubt, this is the most sophisticated bottle of bitters you will ever own with that matte black bottle sporting a shock of orange. It’s the world’s first CBD bitters, combining organically grown hemp plants with a bespoke range of botanicals with antioxidant properties. It’s savoury, herbaceous and complex – delicious in a wide range of cocktails (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) or even splashed into water for a more relaxing night. We are obsessed with ours. 

Find it here: £58.65 (on offer from £69) 

Azu Spirits Tasting Sets

This gift isn’t just a bottle, it’s an experience that can be shared amongst friends this holiday season. Azu is offering spirits tasting kits in both British Gin and Scotch Whisky. The kits come with numbered bottles and guides to each spirit so you can taste them and discover what makes them unique. If you go for the gin selection you’ll also be provided with perfectly portioned bottles of tonic! If you want a fun gift, why not try out the ‘Who Am I? Guess The Malts’! It’s education, entertainment and a great gift, all rolled into one.

Find it here: from £45

Innis & Gunn Vanishing Point 05 Beer

There’s something so special about receiving a limited-edition gift at Christmas, which is why we’ve included this delicious limited edition beer in our gift guide. Innis & Gunn are known for the limited runs of their rare beers, handcrafted in Perth and matured in Scotch whisky casks. Their current star is ‘Vanishing Point 05’, an 11% Imperial stout matured in 15-Year-Old Speyside Single Malt Whisky Casks for a year. It’s deep, dark, chocolatey and even comes with its own goblet! Make a beer and whisky lover very happy this Christmas with Innis & Gunn.

Find it here: £15.00

Pink Diesel Rosé

Pink Diesel Rosé is not just a great rosé to consider for your wine loving friends, but it’s also a great foodie rosé. Hailing from Bandol AOC in the heart of Provence, an extra splash of the Mourvèdre grape brings red fruit, weight and texture, making it a great, more refreshing choice for Christmas lunch than heavy reds. A creamy, fruity rosé, it combines ancient methods with modern winemaking techniques to produce a beautiful wine with notes of honey, peach, red berry and citrus. It’s eco-friendly too with all grapes handpicked in low yields from a small, single vineyard in Bandol, Provence, so really there’s nothing not to love!

Find it here:  £15.95

Copper Rivet Distillery Gin Duo, Jigger and Cocktail Stirrer Gift Box

Gin lovers far and wide will be flocking to this beautiful gift set by Copper Rivet Distillery that includes two bottles of their gin (one Dockyard, one Damson), a copper jigger and a copper bar spoon. You’ll be ready to mix up your favourite gin cocktail in no time while sporting some classy barware that’ll be the envy of all your friends.

Find it here: £25

Cucielo Negroni Gift Set

The Negroni is the most stylish cocktail on the block right now, and what’s even more stylish is being able to knock one up yourself! As all seasoned mixologists will know, the Negroni is a delightful combination of gin, vermouth and Campari. Cucielo’s gift set includes their delicious Rosso Vermouth di Torino and two of their Il Tempo Vola crystal Negroni glasses. The perfect gift for a Negroni lover!

Find it here: £38

Signature Brew Pub in a Box

Can’t go to the pub? Bring the pub to you this Christmas! Signature Brew’s Pub In A Box features a selection of craft beers, glassware, pub snacks, a music quiz and some exclusive playlists tailored to each beer which makes for a fantastic all around experience. We all know someone who’s dying to own their own pub, or perhaps someone who’s already set up shop in their back garden – so here’s to them!

Find it here: £30

Looking for more? We also have Christmas gin, rum, white wine, red wine and luxury whisky guides available!