Must-Try Rums from the Southernmost Caribbean Islands

When we think of rum we may also think of navy sailors and pirates in the same breath… and certainly the tropical, lush atmosphere of the Caribbean! Undoubtedly, Captain Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean films also comes to mind – thanks, Disney! But, all of these images have helped to put rum on the map of being connected to travellers and overseas climes, although there are even some rums made in England these days!

However, the most popular rums that appear on supermarket shelves or in restaurants and bars tend to be those from the bigger, northern Caribbean islands such as Jamaica and Cuba. We are keen to highlight some of the products from smaller, independent locations – did you know that rums can also be found from the southern Caribbean islands too, like Grenada? Follow us on this journey along the southern end of the chain of the Caribbean islands leading up to South America to uncover more rums that you must try!

How is Rum Made?

Rum is a product that is made from sugar cane, that is typically sourced within the West Indies and thrives within tropical climates with substantial rainfall. The first records of rum were located within Barbados and go as far back as the 17th century – did you know?

Whilst rum is associated with travel in modern times, the history of rum production has sinister beginnings as it was a feature of the slave trade. Enslaved people from African countries had been traded and sent to the West Indies in exchange for molasses (a by product of sugar production). Those molasses were then utilised within New England for the production of rum. The early rums were so strong that they went by the name of Kill Devil and rumbullion!

Many of these Caribbean islands still produce rum made from molasses to this day, and might even export molasses to other countries to make rum. Alternatively, rums can be made solely from sugarcane juice, as there might not be a large sugar industry in some countries. Similar to wine and other alcoholic beverages, rums undergo a fermentation process, after the pressing of the juice or as molasses, involving yeast and they may also be aged to create different flavour profiles.

Typically, there will be darker rums and light bodied rums produced. The more molasses heavy rums tend to be the darker rums, which are fuller bodied and may have added caramel to intensify the colour. These rums are generally found in islands such as Jamaica, Barbados and Guyana. Plus, they may also be aged between five to seven years or more and distilled.

The lighter style of rum is a more recent development and began to be produced around the late 19th century. These rums are also fermented but might use a cultured yeast instead and have a reduced ageing period - around one to five years. You can expect a lighter taste to these rums which would make them more suitable for mixing in cocktails, which will appeal to those cocktail lovers out there! Indeed, if you are travelling across the Caribbean islands, you will find many rum shacks in which you can enjoy the rum by itself or within a rum punch for rum tastings!

Which rums from the southern Caribbean islands should I try?

This is a great question as the rums will vary in flavour depending on each island’s production methods. Let’s delve in as we traverse these islands from Martinique down to the Caribbean coast of South America – are you ready?

Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad is the home of an internationally renowned carnival each Shrove Tuesday aka Mardi Gras where you can, of course, sip on some rum whilst dancing along to steel band music and following the costume parades! It is an island with several rum distilleries and the Carib beer brewery. After carnival, you can retire to the beautiful Maracas Bay and soak in the atmosphere with a stunning rum by your side!  

House of Rum – Trinidad 2012

The House of Rum bottles all contain an image of El Diablo (the devil) as a reference to the rum making process whereby liquid is evaporated during maturation – this is known as the Angel’s Share within Europe but is described as Devil’s Share within the tropics.  The House of Rum range tend to be single vintage and aged within a single cask. There is nothing extra added to the process as these rums have no additional caramel for the colour or sugar for the sweetness, and include no additives and remain undiluted. It is the rum world’s equivalent to fine dining as it has a higher price point to match.

This rum was produced at the Trinidad Distillers Ltd (TDL) which was established in 1948 and is now the only rum distillery remaining in Trinidad. For the maturation process there has been nine years of tropical ageing in Trinidad in ex Bourbon barrels and three years of continental ageing in the UK in ex Bourbon barrels.  As a result, this tawny, golden brown rum is not for the faint hearted as it has a strong kick which is balanced out by the pineapple flavour profile with hints of vanilla and a Christmas cake like aroma.  This rum works well with cheese and would be ideal for that nightcap on a cosy night.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 64.3%
Find here: £210

Grenada

Grenada is an unspoilt, volcanic island with lush views and a rainforest. Its nickname is the ‘spice island’ and it has at least 40 white, sandy beaches to discover! There is a population size of 100,000 and it is a compact island to navigate!

If you are a diver, then this is for you as Grenada has an underwater sculpture and the remains of a large shipwreck - Bianca C.

Westerhall No.7 Rum

The Westerhall Estate’s first distillery opened in the 1700s and has continued to produce rum on the island ever since. As its name suggests, the No.7 rum is aged for seven years.  This process occurs within new American oak ex bourbon casks which lend a robust flavour profile to the rum. This is a smooth molasses-based rum with elements of spice and caramel, and aromas of vanilla.

Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or mixed with other tropical juices and pair it with some Grenadian chocolate, such as the organic chocolate from The Grenada Chocolate Company as a treat, because you’re worth it!

On a sidenote, did you know that Westerhall rums are also an official sponsor of the Grenada Rugby World 7s event which occurs in December and will be celebrating its third anniversary in 2024? There will be activities before and after the tournament including live entertainment along Grand Anse beach within the Arts & Crafts market and other locations. Why not enjoy sipping some Westerhall rum whilst watching the rugby in Grenada or online?! Find out more here.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £28.09

You can also make a Westerhall No.7 rum cocktail:

Ingredients:
50ml Westerhall Superb light/Westerhall Plantation Rum 
30ml Lime juice 
½ tsp Sugar syrup 
1 dash Grenadine 

Method:
Combine all the ingredients within a shaker filled with ice and shake well. Pour into a cocktail glass and serve.

Barbados

Barbados is renowned as the birthplace of rum, and it is home to the Mount Gay Distillery from the 18th century! You can also take in rum tasting at the Foursquare Distillery with a self-guided tour. An alternative option would be to visit the Animal Flower Cave, which has a restaurant located within a cave – we have heard that the sea views are stunning!

19 Crimes ‘The Vanished’ Spiced Rum

This is the first rum produced by the winemakers 19 Crimes in its bid to push the boundaries within the spirits world! The rum bottle contains an augmented reality image of an escapee, Mary Bryant which ties into the brand’s philosophy of representing the rebellious convicts sent from Britain to Australia in the 18th century for committing any of the 19 crimes.

This is a tropical, sweet blend which envelops you in its fruitiness as the aromas waft from the bottle.  Pineapple, mango and spices jump out, and it is similar in taste to a liqueur making this an ideal rum to pair with desserts.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £29

Martinique

Martinique may be a French speaking Caribbean island but it is a department of France. It’s an island to visit for architecture lovers as there are over 102 protected architectural buildings, such as the 19th century Fort-de-France. Rum and the rum producers are an important part of Martinican culture. Since 1996, Martinique has had the only AOC label (Protected Designation of Origin) and the rum does not contain molasses but instead French, pressed sugarcane is used in its creation.

J.Bally 12 Year Old Rhum Vieux

This unique shaped rum is gorgeous to look at with its pyramid shaped bottle. The rum is that of the Rhum Agricole style that is common to the French Caribbean islands. Where this production method differs is that the rum is made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice rather than molasses.

This is an amber colour rum which smells similar to a whisky initially with caramel, woody aromas and hints of vanilla.  There is a clean taste without being overly sweet and it is very drinkable.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 45%
Find here: £74.68

Various Islands

Hattiers Eminence Aged White Rum

This white rum blend includes a three and eight year rum from Trinidad and a 5 and 8 year rum from Barbados.  However, there are also unaged rums from Jamaica and aged rums from Australia included within the mix. The rums are blended and bottled within Devon, in England, to make this truly international!

Hattiers rum is B Corp Certified and combines traditional techniques with modern techniques within its rum production, which embraces sustainability in the blending process.

This rum has a light bodied flavour profile, notes of vanilla and a sweet aroma on the nose. It is a versatile rum which would be ideal in cocktails.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £39

Whilst the other rums below are from South American countries and are therefore technically not from the Caribbean islands, they are also along the southern Caribbean coast and are therefore worthy of mention as that extra treat.

Guyana

Guyana is located on the Caribbean coast on the northern side of South America. Did you know that Guyana is the only English language speaking country in South America? You can find rainforests, sugarcane plantations, gold reserves and more to visit! 

El Dorado 2012 High Ester Blend LBI/ DHE

Guyana’s Demerara County is embedded in its history of rum production since the 17th century and its unique climate is appealing for barrel ageing. You can find rums aged between 3-25 years within El Dorado’s range and typically the age that is presented on the bottles is that of the youngest rum included in the blend! Guyana’s only rum distillery is the Demerara Distillers Limited that El Dorado belongs to.

The El Dorado company aims to adopt sustainable practices with its suppliers and its diamond distillery also utilises a Carbon Dioxide tool to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.

The rum’s golden-brown colour is achieved due to the rums being laid down in 45 gallon oak cases, which had previously stored whiskies.

On the nose, the demerara sugar aroma lingers and there is a spicy, full bodied profile with prominent nutmeg and cinnamon aromas with a balanced, smooth butterscotch taste which is bound to be a crowd pleaser. This would be an ideal rum to serve as that digestif if you are wishing to impress guests at a dinner party!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 65.7%
Find here: £114.96

Venezuela

The island of La Tortuga, not to be confused with Tortuga in Haiti of Pirates of the Caribbean fame, and the island of Margarita are amongst a few Caribbean islands that belong to the country of Venezuela.

Santa Teresa 1796 Solera Rum

This amber coloured rum is molasses based and resembles a sherry in appearance which is coincidental as the rum is created using the same solera process adopted for sherry making. This means that the rum casks are placed vertically with rum removed from the oldest cask (at least 35 years old) and replaced by rum from the next oldest, known as fractional blending, and this topping up continues until the youngest cask is reached. The rum at the final stage of this complex process is called the solera. You might be wondering why such an ageing process is used but it helps to achieve a consistent quality of the rum.

Smooth tasting with a rich, caramel aroma and floral, vanilla undertones, this rum can be served on the rocks or as a digestif and will pair well with almonds. Ideal as a gift, this solera rum will be perfect for those of you looking to impress as it is a complex, sophisticated rum for discerning drinkers.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £50

A second rum from Santa Teresa worth a mention is the 1796 Light Tasting Rum. Designed to be used as a mixer, this molasses based rum from Venezuela has no added colourings and is light in texture as it has been aged for a shorter period. It has a pale amber colour and a subtle aroma on the nose with vanilla hues. This is an easy drinking smooth rum with a soft, honey finish.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £23.20

Well, we don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to explore some more of these southern Caribbean islands and their delightful rums as we have barely scratched the surface! There are also some rum cakes that can be found from various islands to whet your appetite in the interim! 

You can also find out more about London’s historic involvement in the sugar industry during the slave trade within the permanent gallery housed within the London Museum Docklands. There is also the Notting Hill Carnival in London that was set up by Trinidad settlers where you can enjoy some rum cocktails. We hope that you will also add bars like Limin’ and Cottons in London as well as La Rhumerie in Paris to your travel itineraries if you are curious to enjoy even more southern Caribbean rums. 

Another tip is to check out the annual UK RumFest as the world’s longest running rum festival, which will be in its 18th year in 2024! We’re keen to know which southern Caribbean island’s rum has excited you the most! Enjoy!

By Latoya Austin

What Are The Main Ingredients in A Margarita?

With so many new cocktails invented every year and hundreds of classics to compete with, it takes a hell of a lot for a cocktail to become not just a world favourite, but arguably the world favourite – the Margarita. Punchy and bright, this timeless tipple is loved everywhere, bringing easy-drinking charm and experimental adaptability.

The origins of the Margarita are as colourful as the drink itself, with several tales vying for the official story. Was it invented in a glamorous Tijuana nightclub in the 1930s? Or Tommy’s Place in Ciuadad Juárez when a lady ordered a ‘Magnolia’? Or perhaps in Texas as a twist on a Tequila Daisy? One popular legend credits a socialite named Margarita Sames, who famously mixed the cocktail for her guests in Acapulco in the 1940s. We know that it means ‘daisy’ in Spanish, so it’s evolved from The Daisy which was an old prohibition drink built around a base spirit, sugar and a sour. Wherever it first sparkled into existence, the Margarita swiftly became synonymous with sunny days and carefree vibes, offering a perfectly balanced mix of salty, sweet, sour, and bitter notes that tantalise the taste buds.

It's a simple breakdown of ingredients, but the balance is key, so let’s dive into how the basic ingredients work together and some of the choices you’ll have to make when bringing yours together…

What’s in a Margarita?

Tequila

The soul of the Margarita. Look for a 100% agave tequila, either Blanco or Reposado, for a clean and vibrant flavour. Blanco offers a fresh, unaged taste, while reposado brings a touch of oak and smoothness. For some affordable tequilas that are perfect, click here.

Appearance wise, the transparency of a Blanco delivers that classic Margarita hue that brims with fresh vitality, which is a plus. You’ll get strong agave flavour and sharp citrus that works perfectly in a Margarita. This is why most Margaritas you order in a bar will be made with Blanco. Reposado will take a more reserved, backseat and definitely makes for an interesting cocktail too, but for the classic recipe, go Blanco.

Lime juice

Freshly squeezed is the way to go. Bottled lime juice just won’t cut it when you’re looking for that crisp, tart punch. And remember, a room temperature lime rolled along the work surface is a lot easier to squeeze! Oh, and remember to save a wedge or two for the garnish.

Orange liqueur

Orange liqueur adds a sweet and citrusy depth, and there are two main liqueurs you’ll find in recipes. Cointreau is typically a bit more refined and aromatic, but Triple Sec works perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand. Grand Marnier is also used, which is blended with Cognac as you can read here. If you want a classic recipe, go Cointreau.

Optional but preferred – syrup

We’ve marked this as optional, but many bartenders will include it – like everything here, it’s up to you. If you like your Margarita on the sweeter side, a dash of simple syrup or agave can balance the tartness perfectly.  

Agave syrup will clearly complement the other ingredients and bring even more complexity, deeper flavour and a longer finish to each sip. However, the syrup is here to bring sweetness, so an easy simple syrup is more than adequate.

Optional – salt rim

Ah, the item of controversy. To salt or not to salt? Ultimately, this down to personal preference. If you’re serving guests, then check with them. If you can’t ask them, why not go half and half? We usually prefer it without here at The Three Drinkers, especially if you’ve splashed out on a great tequila, but each to their own! If you do add some, go easy and only add a little – it’s so easy to overpower everything. When done well, the salt can add another dimension, brightening the sweet and sour notes.

The Classic Easy Margarita Recipe

Ingredients:
50ml tequila
25ml lime juice
25ml Cointreau (or triple sec)
10ml syrup (optional)
salt for rim (optional)
lime wedge for garnish

Method:
Shake the tequila, lime juice, triple sec and ice together until the shaker is cool to touch. You can add a dash of syrup also if you like it sweet. Strain the ingredients into a small glass and garnish with an appetising lime wheel and a salt rim if you fancy. To do that, you just need to apply a little lime juice to the rim and roll it in some salt. Finally, sit back and enjoy cocktail royalty.

What is a Skinny Margarita Recipe?

For those watching their calories but not wanting to compromise on taste, the Skinny Margarita is a slimmer alternative that still delivers on flavour. It skips the syrup in favour of pure, unadulterated citrus notes. Some people also skip out the orange liqueur, or at least add less too. Another common change is to introduce orange juice, often replacing any orange liqueur at all.

Ingredients:
50ml tequila
25ml lime juice
15ml Cointreau (or triple sec) / orange juice
salt for rim (optional)
lime wedge for garnish

Method:
Shake everything until nicely chilled. Strain the ingredients into a small glass and again, garnish with a lime wheel and a salt rim if you fancy.

The Easy Spicy Margarita Recipe

If you’re craving a bit of heat, the Spicy Margarita is your go-to. Infuse your tequila with jalapeño or add a few slices straight into the shaker for a kick that complements the zesty lime perfectly. The main other way of adding spice is to heat up the salted rim. Tajin is a Mexican seasoning blend that does the trick, using chilli peppers, lime and salt but you can also make your own. The end result is refreshing and tart but with that lingering tickle of heat.

Ingredients:
50m tequila (usually Blanco)
25ml lime juice
25ml Cointreau (or triple sec)
10ml syrup (optional)
jalapeño in the glass (optional)
spice rub/Tajin for garnish
jalapeño for garnish

Method:
First thing first, pop Spicy Margarita by Jason Derulo and Michael Bublé on. Right, now the same applies as the salt rim here, wetting the circumference with lime juice before rolling in the rub. Then, shake everything with ice (including jalapeño if you like your spice). You can add a dash of syrup also if you like it sweet too. Strain the ingredients into a small glass and garnish with lime or jalapeño. Sit back and enjoy a taste sensation.

Top Tip: If you don’t want to deal with any chillis or spice mixes, then add some Mexican hot sauce before shaking! Maybe try this one by yourself before experimenting on guests though!

For award-winning Margarita riffs, click here for our DRINKLUSIVE mentee’s guide!

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!

Beyoncé Launches ‘SirDavis’ Whiskey

Beyoncé has swapped stage for distillery with the launch of her whiskey, SirDavis. Partnering with the very capable hands of Moët Hennessy, this venture is more than just a business move; it’s a personal tribute to her great-grandfather, a known ‘moonshiner’ back in the day.

“I’ve always been drawn to the power and confidence I feel when drinking quality whisky and wanted to invite more people to experience that feeling,” says Beyoncé.

“When I discovered that my great-grandfather had been a moonshine man, it felt like my love for whisky was fated. SirDavis is a way for me to pay homage to him, uniting us through a new shared legacy.”

Some celebrity liquor brands are very much hands-off affairs; but Queen Bey its involved in carefully crafting the product. Beyoncé and her team worked closely with Moët Hennessy’s expertise to create a whiskey that’s both sophisticated and approachable, appealing to both whiskey connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. She didn’t just slap her name on the bottle; she chose the single malts and grain whiskies, and she designed a bottle as glamorous and stylish as herself, in keeping with her personal aesthetic.

But don’t be fooled by the star power; SirDavis is a serious whiskey that stands up on its own. Master Distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden who has previously worked with Glenmorangie and Ardbeg led the technical side of things, masterminding a rare 51% rye 49% malted barley mash bill. The aim was to achieve the elegant mouthfeel and textures of Japanese and Scotch whiskies, without losing the robust and deep American rye. Sherry cask maturation was the final touch, bringing juicy, red fruits and warm spices. Tradition and innovation, with some glitz’n’ glam thrown in.

For a keen Beyhive bee, or just someone that likes to keep tabs on the latest whiskey releases, SirDavis offers an exciting opportunity to experience a whiskey that’s rich in history, flavour, and celebrity appeal.

When Beyoncé’s great-grandfather produced his booze, it was stored in the empty knots of cedar trees. This project from his great-granddaughter is an altogether different proposition, gracing the stores of Selfridges, Master of Malt, Hedonism, Berry Bros and The Whisky Exchange. It’s expected to retail for £79 across the UK, US, Paris and Tokyo, so time will tell if it lives up to the price tag!

What is a Carajillo?

You’ve heard of Irish Coffee… you’ve heard of the Espresso Martini, but what about the Carajillo – a trending cocktail that’s as bold as it is beloved. Does it put them all to shame?

Originating from Spain, this classic concoction blends the robust flavours of coffee with the warm embrace of brandy or, more commonly today, Licor 43, a sweet Spanish liqueur – that’s it, two ingredients. Some say its origins lay with busy Barcelona workers who didn’t have time to enjoy their coffee and something stronger… so simply combined them. Hence the name deriving from the Catalan expression ‘Que Ara Quillo’ meaning ‘I’m leaving’.

Picture this: a shot of espresso kissed by the golden hue of Licor 43, with hints of vanilla, cocoa, citrus, and peppery, cinnamon spice swirling together in perfect harmony. It's a drink that’s as comforting as it is energising, making it a favourite among those who appreciate intense flavours. Whether enjoyed as a post-dinner pick-me-up or a winter warmer, the Carajillo’s irresistible mix of sweet and bitter notes has charmed its way into cocktail lovers’ hearts.

The Carajillo changes where it goes, however. Even In Spain, any brandy could be used as well as sprinklings of cinnamon and fresh lemon peel. In Cuba, the serve more commonly uses rum. In Mexico? You’ll find mezcal used, as well as favourite coffee liqueurs like Kahlúa or Tía María. So, whilst the most popular recipe is below – don’t be afraid to take your espresso and combine it with whatever your heart desires!

Ingredients:
30ml Licor 43 (or brandy)
30ml hot espresso coffee
Ice cubes (optional)

Method:
Pour the Licor 43 into a glass. Add the hot espresso coffee. Stir gently to combine. If desired, add a few ice cubes to chill it down. Normally there’s no garnish but you could include coffee beans, cocoa dusting, lemon or cinnamon sprinkle – all work. Finally, enjoy and let the Carajillo soothe your soul.

Which Cocktails Use Campari?

Campari, with its vivid red hue and distinct bitter-sweet flavour, is a staple in the world of aperitifs and cocktails. Hailing from Italy, this iconic liqueur is crafted from an infusion of herbs, aromatic plants, and fruits, creating a complex taste that features notes of bitter orange, rhubarb, and a medley of spices. Known for its role in classic aperitivo culture, Campari has a knack for adding depth and character to any drink. Let’s explore eight classic and creative cocktails that showcase the versatility of the contemporary classic that is Campari.

Negroni

The Negroni is the ultimate Campari cocktail—a bold and sophisticated drink with a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes. A mix of Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth, it’s a classic aperitivo that’s both strong and smooth.  It all came about when Count Camillio Negroni ordered his Americano cocktail (which we’ll get to shortly), but fancied gin instead of soda. The gin adds a crisp juniper bite, the vermouth lends a mellow sweetness, and the Campari ties it all together with its signature bitterness. Served over ice with an orange twist, the Negroni is a simple drink for those who appreciate complex flavours.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
25ml Gin
25ml Sweet Vermouth
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with an orange twist. You’ve got yourself Campari’s most famous incarnation.

Sbagliato

Because the Negroni is such an iconic Campari vehicle, we have to include its trendy spin off – the Negroni Sbagliato, or simply "Sbagliato" (which means "mistaken" in Italian). It was born out of a happy accident when Prosecco was used instead of gin in a Negroni. The result is a lighter, sparkling version of the classic, with the Prosecco adding a delightful fizz and a hint of sweetness. It’s a bubbly, bittersweet cocktail that’s perfect for brunch or as an aperitif.

Ingredients:
30ml Campari
30ml Sweet Vermouth
30ml Prosecco

Method:
Combine Campari and sweet vermouth in a glass filled with ice, top with prosecco, and gently stir to maintain all those beautiful bubbles.

Americano

Where it all began, The Americano is a lighter, more refreshing alternative to the Negroni, making it an ideal choice for warm afternoons. Combining Campari, sweet vermouth, and a splash of soda water, this cocktail offers a delightful mix of bitterness and fizz. The soda lightens the drink, making it more approachable while still delivering that distinctive Campari kick. A slice of lemon or orange adds a citrusy zest to finish. Make sure you use quality Vermouth and soda.

Ingredients:
35ml Campari
35ml Sweet Vermouth
Soda water to top
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Pour Campari and vermouth over ice in a glass, top with soda, and garnish with an orange slice. Voila.

Boulevardier

For those who prefer the richness of whiskey, the Boulevardier is the perfect Campari cocktail. A close cousin of the Negroni, it swaps out gin for bourbon, creating a warm, robust drink with a touch of sweetness. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes blend beautifully with the bitter complexity of Campari and the rich sweetness of vermouth. It’s a sophisticated sipper that’s perfect for colder weather or an evening by the fire.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
35ml Bourbon
25ml Sweet Vermouth
Orange slice (garnish)

Method:
Pre-chill the glass. In a separate mixing glass, stir everything with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with an orange twist.

Campari Spritz

For one of the simplest ways to enjoy Campari, look to the Spritz. The Campari Spritz is a bubbly, vibrant cocktail that’s perfect for summer sipping. This Italian classic pairs the bitterness of Campari with the effervescence of Prosecco and a splash of soda water. The result is a light, refreshing drink with a perfect balance of bitter and sweet. The Prosecco’s fruitiness complements the Campari’s herbal notes, while the soda adds a crisp, clean finish. Garnished with an orange slice, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients:
60ml Campari
90ml Prosecco
Soda water to top

Method:
Pour Campari into a glass filled with ice, add Prosecco and a splash of soda, garnish with an orange slice. Sip quick before the fizz fades!

Jungle Bird

The Jungle Bird is a tropical delight that brings a touch of the Caribbean to Campari’s Italian roots… all whilst being invented in 1970s Malaysia. This tiki classic blends dark rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to create a cocktail that’s both fruity and complex. The pineapple’s sweetness balances the bitterness of the Campari, while the rum adds depth and richness. The lime juice provides a tart, refreshing finish, making this a perfect summer cocktail. It stands out as a more unusual Campari mix because of the fruity-zesty character.

Ingredients:
45ml dark rum
20ml Campari
15ml lime juice
15ml simple syrup
45ml pineapple juice
Pineapple leaf or slice (garnish)

Method:
Shake all ingredients with lots of ice, fine strain into a glass, and garnish with a pineapple wedge… or pineapple leaf… or cherry… or lime wedge – anything!

Garibaldi

Was almost lost to the history books, the Garibaldi is a simple yet delicious two-ingredient cocktail that’s all about showcasing the harmony between Campari and fresh orange juice. Named after the Italian revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi, this drink is as bold and vibrant as its namesake’s red shirts. The bracing bitterness of the Campari is perfectly balanced by the sweet, pulpy orange juice, creating a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail. It’s a great way to start your day (or night) with a burst of citrusy flavour.

Ingredients:
60ml Campari
Top up with fresh orange juice
Orange wedge (garnish)

Method:
Pour Campari over ice, top with freshly squeezed orange juice, and give it a light stir.

Old Pal

The Old Pal is a drier, more bracing take on the richer Boulevardier, swapping sweet vermouth for dry. This cocktail has a sharp, crisp character, with the rye whiskey adding a spicy warmth that’s tempered by the bitter edge of Campari and the dryness of the vermouth. It’s a drink with a bit of attitude, perfect for those who like their cocktails on the drier side. Some recipes call for a 2:1:1 ratio in favour of the whiskey, but we say start with the 1:1:1 and see how it goes – you’re a Campari lover after all.

Ingredients:
25ml Campari
25ml Rye Whiskey
25ml Dry Vermouth
Lemon twist (garnish)

Method:
Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

These eight cocktails highlight the versatility and depth of flavour that Campari brings to the table. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and bitter, there’s a Campari cocktail out there for you. If you’re interested in more cocktails that show what a unique drink can do, check out our Absinthe guide!

Which Mixer Goes Best with Rum?

Rum, the versatile and ancient spirit born in the sun-soaked Caribbean, brings a world of flavours to your glass—from the rich, molasses-based dark rums to the crisp, clean notes of white rum. But the real magic happens when you find the perfect mixer to elevate this tropical treasure. Sipping a premium rum over ice is a treat, but most of us want to make our rum go further with a basic two-ingredient rum and mixer. There is plenty of variety in the world of rum, and some mixers will go better than others with each type. Adapting to the character of your chosen rum is best, but the mixes below are a great place to start. From zest to bitterness to tropical sweetness, each will take your rum serve in a different direction.

Ginger Beer – for a spicier serve

Ginger Beer is a classic mixer for rum, especially in the iconic Dark 'n' Stormy cocktail. To make the full thing you need a good hit of lime juice, dark rum and perhaps some bitters and syrup too. Nonetheless, in its simplest form, ginger beer and rum does the trick. The spicy, robust flavour of ginger beer pairs beautifully with the deep, rich notes of dark rum in particular. The warmth of the ginger highlights the rum's caramel and vanilla undertones, creating a drink that's both refreshing and comforting. Using white rum will create a lighter concoction that still goes down a dream. For an extra twist, we really do recommend the fresh lime to brighten up the flavours. For more Dark ‘N Stormy style variations, click here.

Cola – for a sweeter serve

Rum and cola is a timeless combination that has been a favourite for generations. The sweet, caramel notes of cola meld seamlessly with the vanilla and spice of aged rum. This pairing is particularly good with dark or spiced rum, creating a drink that's smooth and full of depth. Add a wedge of lime, and you’ve got yourself a classic Cuba Libre – one of the easiest cocktails to make. If your rum is already very sweet, then make sure to include plenty of citrus garnish and ice – or pick another mixer!

Coconut Water – for a refreshing serve

For a lighter, tropical twist, coconut water is an excellent choice. Its subtle sweetness and refreshing but delicate nature complements the smooth, slightly sweet profile of white rum. This combination brings out the natural tropical notes in rum, making it an ideal choice for a beachside sip. Coconut water also adds a hydrating and reinvigorating element, perfect for those long, lazy summer days. Caribbean classic and the inspiration behind Malibu.

Pineapple Juice – for a tropical serve

Pineapple juice is another tropical mixer that pairs wonderfully with rum, so much so that it’s the cornerstone of the Piña Colada. The fresh tang of the pineapple cuts through the sweetness of the rum, creating a balanced, vibrant drink that transports you away like no other. This combination works well with both white and golden rums, making it a versatile option for various rum-based cocktails. Pineapple juice also enhances the natural fruitiness of the rum, really making each sip feel like a tropical escape.

Tonic Water – for a lighter serve

Tonic water isn’t just for gin—it pairs surprisingly well with rum too. The bitterness of the tonic balances out the sweetness of the rum creating a more crisp and refreshing drink. The quinine in tonic water adds a subtle complexity, which combined with a lack of strong flavour in tonic, brings out the more nuanced flavours in the rum, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet, more sophisticated and lighter serve. If you’re not totally into tonic, try a ‘sonic’ instead (a 50:50 mix of sparkling water and tonic). A slice of lime is the perfect garnish.

Lemonade – for a zesty serve

Lemonade, with its zesty and sweet profile, is a great match for rum, especially white rum. The citrus notes of the lemonade enhance the rum’s natural flavours, creating a bright, refreshing drink that's perfect for hot summer days. This combination is simple yet satisfying, and you can easily elevate it by adding fresh mint and lemon or lime garnishes. It’s probably not the best pairing with darker rums, however.

Orange Juice – for a fruity serve

Orange juice might not be the first mixer that comes to mind for rum, but it works surprisingly well. The delicious tropical sweetness of quality orange juice is a delicious pairing, but it also brings a subtly tart acidity which cuts through the rum’s rich sweetness, creating a well-rounded drink that’s both refreshing and flavourful. This pairing is particularly good with golden rum, as the juice highlights the rum's fruity and spicy notes. Add a dash of grenadine for a sunset effect and a hint of sweetness.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of rum mixers – experiment! If it tastes good to you then that is all that matters. If you’re into Cognac too, then we’ve prepared a similar article on the best mixers for a fellow historic spirit here.