Is This the Definitive Margarita for Cinco de Mayo?

is this the definitive margarita for cinco de mayo? 818 reposado the three drinkers

Every May 5th, the anniversary of a crucial Mexican victory over the French is celebrated across the country, and indeed wherever Mexicans have settled around the world. In 2022, a staggering 126 million litres of tequila were consumed in the US during Cinco de Mayo, and with the adored agave nectar increasing in popularity every year, you can expect an even higher number this year!

To celebrate an iconic part of the Mexican calendar, surely, it’s only right to make an equally iconic part of Mexican mixology… the world’s favourite cocktail… the Margarita.

818 Tequila, famously involving Kendall Jenner, made its way over to the UK only recently and has already become many tequila drinkers’ go-to tipple. With smooth caramel and vanilla notes, their award-winning 818 818 Reposado is perfect for the sophisticated and sweet Margarita required for the big day, so here’s 818’s very own recipe including a delicious tajin kick that we love:

Ingredients
60ml/2oz 818 Tequila Reposado
15ml/0.5oz Premium Orange Liqueur
22ml/0.75oz Fresh Lime Juice
15ml/0.5oz Agave Syrup (50% Agave Nectar, 50% Water)
Tajin Salt

Method
Simply combine everything except the salt and shake hard and fast with ice until you can feel the chill. Rub either an orange slice or lime juice so along the rim and roll it in the salt so that it sticks. Then simply strain and pour over fresh ice! Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023

The Best Sipping Tequila In 2023 The Three Drinkers

The enlightenment is in full swing as drinkers in their droves flock to tequila for high-quality sipping. The world’s fastest-growing spirit has had some prejudice to overcome, with memories of throat-burning shots, salt licking and lime sucking scorched into people’s minds. None of that should be anywhere near these sophisticated sippers.

So, if you want to try a smooth, burn-free, and flavoursome tequila that stands head and shoulders above the competition, we’ve got the best from each category for you. Vamos!

BEST BLANCO SIPPING TEQUILA

Fortaleza Blanco

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Blanco Sipping Tequila  Fortaleza Blanco

Once somewhat written off as old-fashioned, the family-run Fortaleza is now known for some of the finest tequila in production. Their Blanco is the benchmark, and what so many agave aficionados settle on as the best. It uses exclusively stone crushed agave and is bursting with fresh vegetal agave, exactly what you want from a Blanco. Floral notes and spice lead into bursts of olive butter, earthy pepper, and citrus swirling throughout. Add in one of the most aesthetically pleasing bottles we’ve seen, and it’s the complete package.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
UK £57.45 // US $149.99

BEST REPOSADO SIPPING TEQUILA

Panchos Datos Tequila Reposado

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Reposado Sipping Tequila Panchos Datos Tequila Reposado

Another beautiful bottle to keep, Panchos Datos Reposado rests for 6 months in oak barrels once used to mature bourbon whiskey, imparting inviting caramel and vanilla into the blend. Rounded out by green vegetal notes from start to finish, this is one of the fullest-flavoured and smoothest feeling reposados out there. If you want to convert someone to tequila, go for this.

Size: 700ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
£50.53

BEST AÑEJO SIPPING TEQUILA

VIVIR Tequila Añejo

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Anejo Sipping Tequilas  VIVIR Tequila Añejo

12-year-old double distilled agave is blended with volcanic spring water from the region and aged for 18 months in American Oak bourbon casks. Once you pop the bottle open and pour, you will see for yourself the success of the process. The agave roots aren’t lost, but joining them is a waft of smoky oak, roasted banana, butterscotch vanilla, and silky chocolate to make a wonderfully rich sipping tequila. The fullness and depth of flavour are why this Añejo has picked up not only international best tequila awards and Great Taste stars but also best overall spirit gongs too. It’s simply out of this world!

Size: 700ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
£52.95

BEST EXTRA AÑEJO SIPPING TEQUILA

Tapatio Excelencia Gran Reserva Extra Anejo Tequila

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Extra Anejo Sipping Tequila Tapatio Excelencia Gran Reserva Extra Anejo Tequila

Tapatio is the flagship brand of the prestigious La Alteña Distillery, founded in Jalisco in the 30s by Don Felipe Camarena. These days, his grandson Carlos is presiding over the same pristine nectar. Tapatio Excelencia Gran Reserva Extra Anejo Tequila is a mouthful in more ways than one; four years of aging in a combination of casks imparts layer upon layer upon layer of flavour. Intense peppery agave is joined by buttery vegetal notes, mellow oak, toasted brown sugar and traditional spice weaving in and out. Rich, elegant and classy, if you’re a seasoned tequila sipper and want something new, treat yourself (you get a litre after all!)

Size: UK 1L // US 750ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
UK £203 // US $249.99

BEST BLENDED SIPPING TEQUILA

Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Blended Sipping Tequila Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila

This tequila is pure master craftsmanship. It contains blends of reposado, añejo, and extra añejo which would usually result in colouring, but Maestro Dobel has filtered it out while keeping the beautiful creaminess and complexity from the process. This ‘Cristalino’ expression carries much more vibrance and spice than similar projects, with a palate that represents both the characterful agave and ageing. Think maple, honey and earthy nuttiness all wrapped up in luxurious mouthfeel. The agave isn’t front and centre like some blends, but with the depth of flavour, you won’t mind one bit!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
UK £54.90 // US $57.99

BEST SIPPING TEQUILA FOR WHISKEY LOVERS

Storywood Tequila Double Cask Añejo

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Sipping Tequila for whisky lovers Storywood Tequila Double Cask Añejo

Luis and Michael melded their expert knowledge of agave and oak ageing to create a super innovative tequila/whisky crossover that we love. Each one beautifully bottled, we’ve praised their Speyside Reposados and Añejo before, and now we want to draw your attention to this globetrotting number – the Storywood Tequila Double Cask Añejo. Mexican Añejo spends 14 months in both Scotch whisky barrels and Spanish Oloroso sherry casks before being bottled at a lip-smacking 53% ABV. Sweet, honeyed agave is prominent, flanked by jammy dark fruits and figgy, oaky spice. If you love scotch and tequila, don’t be precious about keeping them separate, try this! And if you just want to try something inventive and tasty, this is your bottle too. Tequila innovation done right.

Size: 700ml
ABV:
53%
Find here:
£57.95

BEST SUMMER SIPPING TEQUILA

Código 1530 Rosa

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Summer Sipping Tequila  Código 1530 Rosa

That’s right, pink tequila! This is very different from the rest of the list because that inviting rose tint is there due to one month resting in ex-Cabernet Sauvignon barrels. Sometimes, bottles like these can be nothing more than a gimmick designed to look good on the shelf, but not in this case. The finish brings a tantalising brightness and vibrance through floral aromas and notes of red fruits that lift the earthy agave wonderfully. This really makes those summery tequila cocktails that bit more sun-kissed, but to be honest, we’d serve it just over ice.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV:
35%
Find here:
UK £49.45 // US $59.99

BEST CELEBRITY SIPPING TEQUILA

Casamigos Blanco

The Best Sipping Tequilas in 2023 The Three Drinkers Best Celebrity Sipping Tequila  Casamigos Blanco

Famously fronted by George Clooney with a mystery master distiller behind it, Casamigos needs no introduction. This is one of those fantastic liquids that pleases most card-carrying tequila heads whilst remaining completely approachable to newbies. The softness, the rich vanilla, the citrus, the herbal undertones – it’s easy to sip through but interesting at the same time. 

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV:
40%
Find here:
UK £52 // US $42.99

If you’re into your tequila but have for some reason dismissed or never tried mezcal then you’re missing out, especially if you’re searching for new flavours because the variety is incredible. Check out our Top Sipping Mezcals if nothing on this list tickles your fancy!

7 Chocolate Liqueurs Perfect for Easter

7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers

We’re well and truly on the side of ‘you’re never too old for an easter egg’, but if one thing is better on Easter, it’s got to be a silky chocolate liqueur.

So, whether you’re into rich dark pours, vanilla whites or just adding some sweet chocolate magic to your favourite spirit, celebrate Easter with one of these delicious bottles.

For the rum lovers

Amaz-In Chocolate Créme Liqueur

amaz-in chocolate créme liqueur 7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers

Grenadian chocolate and Grenadian rum come together like an absolute dream in this velvety liqueur. It’s thick, rich and although the chocolate at the forefront is dangerously moreish, the subtle fruits underneath complete the profile really nicely. It’s perfect for sipping over ice, drizzled over a pudding for a touch of decadence, and of course, it’s crying out for a Caribbean cocktail.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £36.65

For the fruit lovers

Amarula Raspberry, Chocolate & African Baobab

7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers amarula raspberry, chocolate & african baobab

If you're a fan of distinct and original chocolate liqueurs, then you simply have to try this South African gem. The creamy but surprisingly light Amarula, a liqueur created from the fruit of the Marula tree, is joined by the standout addition of tart raspberries, sweet chocolate as well as nutritious African baobab fruit (one of the best-tasting superfoods on the planet). This combination of delicate citrus, raspberry tang and sweet caramelly chocolate cream is mouth-watering and it’s what won Amarula a Gold at The Liqueur Masters in 2021.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15.5%
Find here: £17

For the tequila lovers

Mis Amigos Chocolate Tequila Liqueur

7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers mis amigos chocolate tequila liqueur

Mis Amigos have leaned into the potential of earthy, vegetal agave by blending it with rich dark chocolate and cocoa, and the results are delicious. It’s another Gold medal award winner, praised for its super smoothness and versatility in cocktails. Try it in a Chocolate Margarita which might sound a bit odd, but just trust us it’s sublime.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £22.99

For the grappa lovers

Bottega Nero - Cioccolato Nero e Grappa (Dark Chocolate)

7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers bottega nero - cioccolato nero e grappa

For those not familiar, grappa is an Italian pomace brandy, so it’s usually made using leftover grape skins from winemaking. This blend is literally like drinking the smoothest milk chocolate there is in terms of texture, but with the rich depth of flavour dark chocolate gives. The distinct personality of the drink is completed by the Veneto grappa adding an oomph to the indulgence. Be warned - once people try this, they are desperate for more!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £18.99

For the white chocolate lovers

Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur

godiva white chocolate liqueur  7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers

For nearly a century Godiva has been mastering the art of chocolatier-ing in Belgium, and as one of the most trusted premium chocolatiers, they have moved into liqueurs. Godiva White Chocolate is everything you want it to be and more, with delicate white chocolate and soft Madagascar vanilla combining for total unapologetic lushness. A White Chocolatini is probably the single most indulgent cocktail you can concoct, and we’d recommend it over most puddings.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: UK £34.99 // US $49.21

For the bourbon lovers

Charlie Parry's Chocolate Bourbon Liqueur

charlie parry's chocolate bourbon liqueur 7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter the three drinkers

Bourbon and chocolate are a classic marriage, with the sweetness of the chocolate pulling the caramel from the bourbon, and the bourbon’s smooth, smoky depth wrapping the chocolate tastefully. Elegant dark chocolate is used here to avoid over-sweetness, and instead, there’s a curious rich bittersweetness created alongside toasted oak and sweet vanilla. If you love your Old Fashioned then you simply have to try this in one. If you’re in a very different mood then it also works great in milkshakes or over a quality vanilla ice cream!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £19.95

For the vodka lovers

Riverside Chocolate Vodka Liqueur

Riverside Chocolate Vodka Liqueur the three drinkers 7 chocolate liqueurs perfect for easter

Some bottles just deserve attention, and this is one of them. Isn’t she a beauty? Riverside Spirits up in Cheshire is responsible, and they’ve filled it with something more than worthy; a velvety sweet chocolate vodka. The warmth of the vodka kicks in beautifully through the rich dark cocoa for an incredibly satisfying sip. Serve it with a little ice and it’s amazing.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £24.95

We’re chocolate mad at the moment with Easter around the corner so check out these top choc and drinks pairings if you want to keep the two separate!

The Best Tequila for a Margarita

THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

Which tequila should I use for a Margarita? Given that the Margarita was the most popular cocktail last year, this is a question on the lips of many a drinks lover. From bargain bottles that produce knockout cocktails to top-end master mixes, these are tequilas guaranteed to bring the oomph needed to your Margaritas!

Best Bargain Tequilas

El Sueño Tequila Silver

El Sueño Tequila Silver  THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

The result of five generations of tequila producers, this is a really top cocktail tequila. Don’t be put off by the fact it’s a ‘mixto’ (not 100% agave), this beats many ‘purer’ brands hands down. After the 70% agave, 30% is locally grown sustainable piloncillo which provides a nice sweetness. The vegetal agave note is expectedly subtle with lovely grapefruit hints and overall, El Sueño represents top-notch value in a Margarita.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £21.90

Tapatio Blanco Tequila

Tapatio Blanco Tequila THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

Tapatio is much loved among tequila drinkers because it’s largely unchanged since the 1930s, and for a silver tequila it’s the gold standard for value. Made traditionally, it’s brimming with blanco character; think raw agave, a little citrus, earthiness, and pepper. It’s intense so will more than hold its own in a Margarita. Iconic.

Size: UK 500ml / US 1L
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £23.39 / US $43.99

El Espolòn Blanco Tequila

El Espolòn Blanco Tequila THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

Cirilo Oropeza is a hugely respected distiller producing fantastic tequila in the Jalisco highlands and you’ll often see this bottle used by mixologists. The pure agave goes straight to bottling without aging, retaining fresh agave up front and centre, supported by a pleasant sweetness and floral undertone. We’ve praised their bottle before but it’s a Day of the Dead skeleton riding rooster so we have to point it out again. Now that’s a bottle you want to see coming out for the Margaritas.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.49

The Butterfly Cannon Blue

The Butterfly Cannon Blue THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

As if the beautifully designed bottle isn’t enough to win you over, the aesthetics carry over to the liquid itself with the vivid blue hue changing colour once mixed! If that’s still not convinced you, then every purchase also supports butterfly conservation! Still no?! Prickly pears and clementines support punchy agave flavour with added complexity from strawberry, melon and fig. This is a tequila that has so much going for it and is simply stunning in a Margarita.

Size: UK 500ml / US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £29.04 / US $27.99

Mid-tier

AquaRiva Blanco

AquaRiva Blanco THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

This super smooth Blanco uses 100% Blue Weber agave grown in the volcanic soil of the Jalisco highlands. The nose has an intriguing tang which opens up into a surprisingly herbal and peppery palate that’s super crisp and zesty. There’s a sharpness to this Blanco that really stands out and makes for an intense Margarita. Top-notch for the price.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £31.74

1800 Silver Tequila

1800 Silver Tequila THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

The eye-catching bottle based off the Mayan pyramids puts a lot of pressure on the liquid inside, and it lives up to it. Double distilled and blended with an array of white tequilas, the result is a seriously well-rounded profile that is delicate, floral, fruity and herbal and all whilst being refreshing and silky smooth. It’s exceptional and between you and me, tequila lovers would probably pay more for the quality but let’s not tell 1800 that! It brings so much depth of flavour to a Margarita..

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: UK £33.99 / US $28.99

Top end

VIVIR Tequila Reposado

VIVIR Tequila Reposado THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

Vivir roughly translates as, ‘to live’ from Spanish and if you’re lucky enough to use this in your Margarita then you are well and truly living your best life. It’s a gorgeous bottle of buttery and caramelly reposado from the 6 months of bourbon oak cask aging. There’s a really lovely vanilla hint too, but don’t think that all of this overpowers the agave – that remains front and centre and anchors everything with vegetal earthiness. A benchmark premium reposado that will transform a Margarita to a whole new level.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £43.95

Código 1530 Rosa

Código 1530 Rosa THE BEST TEQUILA FOR A MARGARITA The Three Drinkers

If you’re a seasoned Margarita drinker then you might want to mix it up a little bit. If this is the case, this is the tequila for you. Bright berry notes shine through due to aging in ex-Napa Cabernet wine barrels which works amazingly well with the smooth and earthy tequila. It looks and tastes incredible and will make you a floral pink-hue Margarita, unlike anything you’ve tried before.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: UK £46.24 / US $60.99

Truth be told, you would be more than happy sipping away at most of the above bottles, but if a classic Margarita isn’t doing it for you, then check out The Best Sipping Tequilas for a completely different but still equally magical experience!

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Valentine’s day is all about love and couples so I’ve put together pairs of spirits I love from each of the main spirits categories. These are not, one for him or her, as I don’t believe in imposing flavour on anyone. These are simply pairs of the best examples of spirits I’ve tasted recently, and if you needed to replace your other halves favourite spirit in time for Valentine’s Day, then I don’t think you’d go wrong with any of these.

The Best Tequila For Valentine’s Day

Mijenta Blanco 

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Mijenta Blanco the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

There is tequila I used to drink in my youth, mainly with salt and lemon, late in a bar whilst in Edinburgh at university, and this is about as far removed from that style of Tequila as you can get. It is elegant and vibrant with fruity flavours and delicate agave notes running all the way through the palate. Made from 100% Blue Weber agave and bottled with no filtration, Mijenta supports whale conservation and partners with The Ocean Foundation. They also use local glass, and the labels are created using agave waste. There is a feel-good factor to this lovely tequila, just as it makes you feel good whilst drinking it.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: UK £54.95 // US $49.99

 

Volcan De Mi Tierra Blanco 

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Volcan De Mi Tierra Blanco Tequila the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Created with a blend of Blue Agave from both the highlands and lowland of Jalisco, the agave is grown in the shadow of the volcano, hence the name. The volcano erupted over 200,000 years ago and created rich volcanic soils which are perfect for growing agave. This Tequila has lots of complexity and is great for sipping, using in a Paloma, and it makes a mean Margarita as well.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £44.74 // US $48.99

 

The Best Gin For Valentine’s Day

Mermaid Pink Gin 

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Mermaid Pink Gin the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

This pink gin is unlike many others. It is vibrant and not too sweet. It still has the Mermaid Gin at its heart, and the fruity extra flavour comes from an infusion of strawberries grown on the Isle of Wight, where this distillery is found. The strawberries mix well with the original botanicals, and it makes a brilliant G&T, especially if topped with strawberries! The pink hew is just enough to let you know this is a pink gin and therefore to expect lots of fruitiness.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find it Here: £37.99

 

Kyrö Pink Gin

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Kyrö Pink Gin the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Made in Finland, the team at Kyro has attempted to make a pink gin for everyone. Well, I’m not sure about that, all I do know is that this is my favourite pink gin ever! If it’s others as well, then that just goes to show they’ve been pretty successful. Made with foraged strawberries, rhubarb and lingonberries, there is a creaminess to the gin, and it tastes very fresh and not artificial at all. I’m sure this would be great in cocktails, but above all, it makes a very refreshing G&T. 

Size: 500ml
ABV: 38.2%
Find it Here: £29.95

 

The Best Vodka For Valentine’s Day

Dima’s Vodka Ukrainian Three Grain

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Dima’s Vodka Ukrainian Three Grain the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

This vodka not only tastes brilliant but is doing something to put right some of the wrong in the world. £5 from every sale gets donated to Ukraine to help the war effort. Back to the vodka, it’s made from three grains giving a lovely depth of fruity earthy flavours and is brilliant chilled a little with a little pickle - just how it’s drunk in its home country. It also makes excellent cocktails, not just in flavour, but the vodka has a creamy mouthfeel which helps everything slip down nicely. As they say in Ukraine: Budmo!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £35

 

X Muse

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day X Muse Vodka the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Made in Scotland from a blend of two heritage varieties of barley, Maris Otter and Plumage Archer, this vodka has huge complexity of flavour and great texture. X Muse, pronounced Tenth Muse, reflects the sum of its parts, blended together as the tenth muse was a sum of all other nine in mythology. Not just an interesting story, it’s one of the best vodkas I’ve tasted in recent times.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £55.74

 

The Best Whisky For Valentine’s Day

Glen Moray Port Finish

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Glen Moray Port Finish Whisky the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Glen Moray creates the best value single malt whisky by far, and this expression is no different. This port finish is part of the Glen Moray Classic range and has had an eight-month finish in a port cask. This not only gives delicate red fruit flavours alongside those classic orchard fruits and honey, but a slightly pink tinge. Well, it is Valentine’s day.
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: UK £26.90 // US $34.99

 

GlenAllachie 11

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Glenallachie 11 Whisky the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

GlenAllachie is becoming known for its use of different oak finishes and maturations, and here we have a whisky first matured in American ex-bourbon casks for nine years, and then finished in ruby port casks. There are lots of caramel, honey, and vanilla notes, but also red berries and some hedgerow fruit as well. There is a rich hew of pink, and this whisky goes to show that as long as the casks are good, single malt doesn’t have to be old to be very good.  

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Find it Here: £81.15

 

The Best Brandy/Cognac For Valentine’s Day

Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal Cognac the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Back in 1738 it was illegal to plant new vines on your land, until Louis XV gave permission to Rémy Martin. This was the Accord Royal of 1738 of which this cognac gets its name. There are lots of complex citrus fruits, with orange being predominant, and caramel and a touch of spice. Smooth and very easy to sip on a winter’s evening, it also makes a good long cocktail too. Add a little ginger ale, a dash of lime and a sprig of rosemary, and all you’ll need is the sun to top it off.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: UK £52.50 // US $69.99

 

Hennessy XO 

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Hennessy XO Cognac the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

This is the Cognac that started the XO movement. The name was given to the Cognac by Maurice Hennessy in the 1800s. First bottled for friends and family in 1870, it uses a blend of more than 100 eaux-de-vie from Petite and Grand Champagne regions of Cognac as well as Fins Bois and Borderies. It is a deep brooding cognac with lots of dark chocolate and orange flavours. Perfect with a cigar, but as I found out on my last visit to Hennessy, brilliant in the heat of the day in a fishbowl glass and plenty of ice. Magnificent.

 Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £164.99 // US $199.99

 

The Best Rum For Valentine’s Day

Ron Abuelo XII Two Oaks 

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Ron Abuelo XII Two Oaks the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

Matured in two different types of oak cask, this rum from Panama is rich and smoky, but has a sweetness running through the whole palate making it smooth and deeply drinkable. Aged for over a decade in ex-bourbon casks, it was then transferred into heavily charred virgin American oak giving the rum its smoky deep character.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £46.95

 

Duppy Share 40%

The Best Spirits for Valentine’s Day Duppy Share 40% Rum the three drinkers thethreedrinkers.com

This rum is created from blends of Jamaican and Barbadian rums. The former gives lots of fruity flavours and the caramel, baked banana flavours are typical of Barbados. The rums are up to five years old and the resulting rum is smooth with lots of tropical sweetness working well by itself or in any rum cocktail, especially a daiquiri. The name is taken from the Jamaican spirits called Duppies which stole rum across the Caribbean.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it Here: £26

Words by Colin Hampden-White

If you’re looking for more Valentine’s/Galantine’s Day inspiration then why not check out our Beautiful Pink Gins guide or perhaps Sparkling Wine is more up your street?

Is 2023 Tequila’s Year?

Is 2023 Tequila’s Year? The Three Drinkers

For anyone that listens to our Bring a Bottle podcast, you’ll know that we’ve been wanting tequila and mezcal to be fully explored for a while. With the growing popularity of cocktails like the Margarita and the Picante as well as the influx of celebrity brands, tequila, it is getting there but there’s still so much more that it has to offer!

Far too often, the spirit itself is being clouded by other ingredients when it should be the star of the show… and 2023 may well be the year. Someone who agrees with us is Cazcabel and although they may be somewhat biased, their Blanco is the UK’s best-selling 100% agave tequila, so they certainly know their onions…or agave we should say.

All research shows that the tequila train is showing no signs of slowing down, and is in fact speeding up. The global market is the fastest growing spirit after pre-mixed cocktails, the Margarita is the most popular cocktail in the world and everything looks set for tequila to transition from party drink to premium sipper… although who’s to say it can’t be both!

British drinkers are warming to the idea of swapping out vodka and gin from their tonics and experimenting with tequila as a short serve option – not just dismissing it as shots or cocktail fodder. If you want to get ahead of the trend then we’ve been shouting about our favourite tequila options from the rooftops which you can explore here.

Is 2023 Tequila’s Year? Cazcabel The Three Drinkers

Cazcabel is pioneering in the space though, and a fantastic option to explore. Located in the Jalisco highlands of Mexico, Cazcabel not only produces liqueurs but super value blanco and reposado expressions, showcasing how the earthy crispness of agave flavour can shine when paired simply with tonic.

Cazcabel Blanco - £25.70
Cazcabel Reposado - £25.99

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night

the best whisky alternatives for burns night

January 25th brings Burns Night, the birthday of The Scottish Bar, Robert ‘Rabbie’ Burns. His classic works like Auld Lang Syne are known across the world, and traditionally, haggis and Scotch are served after reading Rabbie’s words to ‘address the haggis’.

It’s the perfect excuse to pour out a special dram, but believe it or not Scotch lovers, not everyone loves it! So, whether it’s wine, spirits, or even alcohol-free drinks you’re looking for, these are the best alternatives to sip on during Burns Night, that give nods to the event without going the whole hog, or the whole haggis. Enjoy!

WINE

Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Shiraz

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Shiraz

Another fantastic wine drinker’s choice for Burns Night is this Double Barrel Shiraz... because it’s literally aged in Scotch whisky barrels! Available in almost all supermarkets, this Jacob’s Creek range includes other wines finished with Scotch, but the Australian Shiraz is really top notch. It’s first matured in traditional oak wine barrels, building richness and elegance with hints of blueberry and ripe plum. Finishing in Scotch barrels leaves for a seriously moreish easy-drinking smoothness as well as vanilla and charry oak notes. It’s a fantastic food-friendly Shiraz that would sing alongside beef, mushrooms, and blue cheese.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: UK £10 (usually £12!) Sainsbury’s // US $21.99

1000 Stories Chardonnay

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night 1000 Stories Chardonnay

1000 Stories make a number of wines, with each fermenting in charred barrels that once housed iconic Kentucky bourbon. We’ve picked out their Chardonnay which reimagines the Cali classic without losing the characteristic of what makes the full-bodied grape so loved. The result is lush, charred vanilla and toasted caramel perfectly balanced by the more familiar baked apple and pear. The inclusion of a little Viognier adds even more intrigue with tropical hints in the background. Gorgeous!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5% 
Find here: UK £16.50 Tesco // US $16.99

SPIRITS

Mount Gay XO Triple Cask Blend

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Mount Gay XO Triple Cask Blend

The peak of rum heritage is Mount Gay who release some absolute crackers, and the dark and brooding XO is right up there. Resting for between 8-15 years in a combination of American whiskey, bourbon and Cognac casks creates a precision balance. A lovely oakiness underlines everything, decorated with inviting notes of waxy pear and sticky toffee fig pudding. Full-flavour, impossibly smooth, and finally the very gentle warming spice that you need on Burns Night – it’s the best rum option to replace Scotch. Try it with a large coconut water ice cube to really accentuate the coconut notes too.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £54.59 // US $64.99

Firkin Gin Islay Cask

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Firkin Gin Islay Cask

Firkin Gin produce some delicious gin, many finished with wines and whiskies. We even tried their Côtes Du Roussillon in, ‘The Three Drinkers Do Scotch Whisky’, but on Burns Night, gin lovers should go to their Islay Cask! Best known for Scotch, Firkin Gin have imparted that Islay character into this London dry-style gin by resting it in oak casks that used to house local whisky. In amongst the juniper, lime and honey botanicals, peat smoke wafts through on the nose before distinct vanilla and sea-breeze notes on the palate. The peppery finish ties up the peaty elements nicely, for a gin that is both light, zesty, and coastal, but smoky too. Explore it neat but perhaps serve with ginger beer after that.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £34.99

Storywood Speyside 14 Añejo Tequila

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Storywood Speyside 14 Añejo Tequila

Raised in Texas but born in Scotland, Michael Ballantyne founded the award-winning Storywood to produce tequila, ‘with the heart of Mexico and the soul of Scotland’. It’s unusual to see Speyside and Tequila in the same sentence, but the 100% blue weber agave añejo matures in Scotch casks from the area for 14 months to create one of the most uniquely layered tequilas around. Think caramelised nuts and toasted oak, intertwining with the earthy and vegetal agave that sits at the heart of it. Innovative and well worth a try to see if the combination is a hit for you!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £49.30

Kalak Peat Cask Vodka

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Kalak Peat Cask Vodka

Another expression you don’t see often but just so happens to be the perfect alternative to Scotch for Burns Night... cask-aged vodka. Kalak’s crisp Irish malted barley vodka is distilled four times and finished in virgin American oak casks charred over Irish peat fires. What an image that is! A mellow smoke coats the bakery profile of vanilla, gingerbread, and cream wonderfully. The whisky presence is far from overbearing if you’re worried about that, it just adds a new toasted layer to the existing characteristics. We think this would also create some really unique cocktails, like a Smoky Martini. Cheers to Rabbie!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £33.90

Beeble Honey Whisky Liqueur

Beeble Honey Whisky Liqueur

If you’re anything like us you’ll be instantly curious about that distinct honied hue and giant bee, and even more intrigued about what ‘honey spirit’ is. When the founders began their first hive, they found it difficult to avoid wasting the honey that stuck to the frames. They tried soaking them in whisky and the first Beeble batch was born. They now have over 130 sustainable hives, and still only use honey, water, and whisky. English apple blossom honey blends with Scotch for a super silky and floral bottling at just 30%. If you really don’t like whisky, then maybe stay clear but if you want to explore a much easier drinking sweet liqueur version, then this is a must try. It won a Great Taste Award in 2020 for its original flavour so see what you think!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 30%
Find here: £32

NO LO

Feragaia

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Feragaia

If you don’t drink alcohol but still want to sip on something special for the celebrations, then how about Feragaia? It’s a Scottish alcohol-free spirit combining 14 wild botanicals including chamomile, bay leaf and seaweed with local Scottish water. The grounding spices like pink peppercorn work well with the coastal Kelp and fresh lemon and blackcurrant for a really balanced and clean feeling of flora and earth. It might look like a very pale whisky, but Feragaia doesn’t intend to try to replicate a spirit, instead they hope that this stands in its own right as its own thing. Bravo!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £19.94

Crossip ‘Dandy Smoke’

The Best Whisky Alternatives For Burns Night Crossip ‘Dandy Smoke’

Crossip has a great range of booze-free spirits, but it was Dandy Smoke that picked up The Independent’s Best Overall Non-Alcoholic Spirit of 2021, and it has that Scotch profile we’re looking for. It’s smoky (obviously!) and velvet smooth with satisfying viscosity, which is important because a thin feel can be an issue with booze-free spirits. Underneath the enjoyable texture are layers of warming spice with a subtly medicinal punch not dissimilar from Islay expressions. It’s a smaller bottle than most but a little goes a long way with this one. Try it with cola or ginger ale, or even at the base of a fresh mocktail!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £22

If after all that you’ve come full circle and just want quality Scotch for Burns Night, then check out our list of the very best, from budget to blowout.

Words by Calum Ecroyd

calum ecroyd writer bio

The Best Tequila To Gift This Christmas

best tequila to gift this christmas

There’s no drink more harmed by its own reputation than tequila. Far too many people have mixed memories of shots, salt, and lime and have simply written it off as a throat burner. Wrong!

Whilst it’s always possible it’s just not to someone’s taste, it’s more likely that a little bit more exploring would go a long way. Tequila is a versatile spirit for all times of the year, and these beauties below shouldn’t be anywhere near shot glasses or salt. No burn, just pure agave nectar!

Whereas tequila may have once brought you and your friends together in the club, let it now become a coming together drink at Christmas time instead... and you can actually cherish it this time. So, whether you want to treat yourself, win over a doubting Thomas, or just impress a sombrero-wearing tequila lover this Christmas, we’ve listed our favourite tequilas of each type below!

The Best Blanco Tequila to Gift

El Espolòn Blanco

El Espolòn Blanco

Renowned master distiller Cirilo Oropeza is behind this beautiful Blanco, crafting it in the highlands of Jalisco. This 100% blue agave beauty is bottled without aging, so just one smell gives you fresh agave front and centre, with floral notes and sweet flavours after sipping. What a bottle too! Espolòn comes from the spur of the rooster's foot, a bird of great significance in Mexican culture, so of course, there’s a Day of the Dead skeleton riding one on the label, what else?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.49

Próspero Blanco

Próspero Blanco

Celebrities love to dip their toes into the world of tequila and mezcal, and in this case, Rita Ora has joined forces with distilling maestro Stella Anguiano to create Próspero. They have three styles: Blanco, Reposado and Añejo, but the Blanco stands apart from standard, un-aged tequila with a distinctly vibrant bouquet floral aroma followed by true 100% agave character and a slight spice to finish. If you’re looking for a cocktail Tequila, then this will definitely hold its corner, but it’s more than well-rounded enough to enjoy solo. We have to shout out the gorgeously designed bottle again. The Mexicans certainly know how to entice us in that’s for sure! Perfect for Christmas gifting.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £30.49

Tapatio 110 Blanco Tequila

Tapatio 110 Blanco Tequila

Tapatio Blanco is a tequila that you’ll spot in many bars, but not this special edition. 110 proof, it’s a lip-smacking 55% ABV, so if you know someone that’s a seasoned tequila drinker, they might love this punchy concentrated flavour. There’s a loveable fruitiness from nose to finish, and a pleasant hit of peppery spice on the palate. Maybe not one for a newbie, but if you’re already a convert, this is a must try.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 55%
Find here: £31

Calle 23 Blanco

Calle 23 Blanco

Another stylish bottle with that all important 100% agave trait you should seek out, this is an extremely pure expression of quality Blanco Tequila. It’s smooth and seductive with cooked agave at the fore. There are hints of citrus and herbaceous notes, but if you’re an agave purist then trust us, you’ll adore this!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £37.99

Casa Noble Blanco

Casa Noble Blanco

This triple-distilled super smooth Blanco uses 100% Blue Weber agave grown in the rich, volcanic soil of the mountains in western Jalisco. There’s nothing rough around the edges at all, it’s simply pure, well balanced crisp nectar, with flavours of honey, fresh citrus and the agave itself which has an appetising buttery-sweetness to it. No lime or salt anywhere near this please.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £53.44

Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila

Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila

What we’ve got here is possibly the world’s first crystal clear multi-aged tequila. It’s an innovative blend of reposado (partially aged), añejo (aged for over a year) and extra añejo (aged for over three years). Usually, you would expect some colouring but with Dobel it’s filtered out, whilst retaining the beautiful creamy flavour and complexity the aging brings. With stunning layering of maple, nuts, and honey, this is ideal for anyone looking to try something a little different. It’s seriously good.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £47.90 (usually £54.90!)

Fortaleza Blanco

Fortaleza Blanco

The family run Fortaleza was launched in 2005, after being dismissed decades earlier as inefficient and old fashioned. They’ve since become respected for their influential history and are now bottling some of the finest tequila there is. This is often the place tequila drinkers are trying to ‘get to’, because it represents everything a pristine Blanco should be. 100% stone crushed agave with delightful bursts of olive and butter, it’s earthy, peppery with gentle citrus. Class in a glass, and a bottle worth keeping too!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £56.40

The Best Reposado Tequila to Gift

Cazcabel Reposado

Cazcabel Reposado

Allow us to introduce you to the Gold Medal winner for Premium Reposado at the 2019 Tequila Masters. American oak aged for 9 months, you’ll find earthy flavours at first, then gorgeous cinnamon, caramel, and dried fruit surfacing. At the heart of this supporting cast though is a particularly vegetal agave, still bold and sweet even after aging. Quality beyond its price point so it’s likely one you’ll want to return to.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £25.99

El Rayo Reposado

El Rayo Reposado

This is a strikingly contemporary tequila bottle that will really impress as a gift from the moment it’s revealed under the wrapping. El Rayo means, ‘the lightning’, referencing the legend of how lightning struck and cooked a Blue Weber agave plant, creating the first tequila! Cracking it open reveals a full-bodied and layered tequila with golden caramel colouring that’s matured for seven months in ex-whiskey casks, creating a Reposado that’s well worth trying, especially if someone’s never taken to it tequila before.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.70

Patrón Reposado

Patrón Reposado

When thinking of a tequila house that consistently delivers excellence across its range, we never stray too far from Patrón. Their Reposado picked up a Masters gong at the Tequila Masters in both 2020 and 2021, and with each bottle hand-filled, signed and uniquely numbered, it’s as close as you can get to a guaranteed hit as a gift. Lightly amber in colour, it’s bright with freshly squeezed citrus and smooth vanilla, all wrapped together by honey and agave. You’ll struggle to find a more suitable star for your margarita than this Reposado.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £47.45

Pancho Datos Reposado

Pancho Datos Reposado

The name Pancho Datos is homage to the great historian and poet of the Mexican Revolution, Ricardo Grijalva de León. Before reaching those ominously gorgeous bottles, Panchos Datos Reposado is at rest for six months in white oak barrels that were once used to mature bourbon whiskey. These barrels more than leave their mark with tasty vanilla and caramel notes that make it utterly delicious. The extremely rounded flavours would make for a characterful and smooth margarita, but you have to try it over just over ice first.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £41.50 (usually £49.50!)

Mijenta Tequila Reposado

Mijenta Tequila Reposado

Mijenta is sustainability as well as flavour royalty. They’re an artisanal, small batch producer in the Jalisco highlands that work closely with local communities to create a product that delivers not only for the drinker, but for the planet too. Even their label is made from discarded agave waste! The Reposado is aged for half a year in a blend of barrels – American white oak, French oak, and French acacia casks. As a result, it boasts of rich vanilla, nutty wood, and bold vegetal agave, with a velvety feel throughout. Great backstory, fantastic tequila, what more can you ask for?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £63.95

Clase Azul Reposado

Clase Azul Reposado

If we’re offering you some of the best options for gifting (or having yourself, let’s be honest) then we just can’t leave this out. We think it’s one of the most beautiful bottles we’ve seen, and we peruse a lot. Beyond the quirky bell that comes with it, each bottle is unique and 100% handcrafted by over 100 artists committed to working on 1 bottle at a time. Produced at one of the highest points in Los Altos, it’s rumoured that the extreme altitude has a unique effect on the flavour. Whether that’s true or not, it may as well be because it’s magnificent. The company’s secret yeast blend ferments the liquid before triple filtration distillation and fine oak aging completes the process. It’s picked up gold medals galore and if you’re fortunate enough to be able to really treat someone this Christmas, this is certainly the way to go! Just make sure no one throws away the bottle!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £209.95

The Best Añejo Tequila to Gift

Rooster Rojo Añejo

Rooster Rojo Añejo

It’s our old friend the Mexican rooster again, this time on the front of a rich Añejo made by initially steaming the piña (the centre of the agave after harvesting) for 10 hours. Special yeast is added, before Rooster Rojo undergoes double pot distillation and maturing in ex-bourbon casks. As a result, you get mouth watering aromas of chocolate and coffee, with smoky tobacco and oak. Late come delicious, sweeter notes of caramel, vanilla and roast agave and a final wave of brown sugar on the finish. At this price, it’s absolutely irresistible.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £27.44

 1800 Añejo Tequila

 1800 Añejo Tequila

There’s lots to catch your eye with this. First, the oversized cap and interesting bottle shape that is paying homage to the Mayan pyramids. Secondly, check out that striking caramel nectar colouring! Thirdly, and most importantly, the taste. There’s a pleasant and very noticeable woody spice, derived from French oak aging for over a year. The agave is less front and centre than most, so try it and see what you make of it!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £43.69

Casamigos Añejo Tequila

Casamigos Añejo Tequila

If George Clooney’s involved, then it’s got to be worth a look. He’s the gorgeous face of Casamigos, so much so that the master distiller behind it has never actually been named! The 100% blue agave piñas are slow cooked for 72 hours in their traditional brick ovens, after which begins the 80-hour fermentation process with a signature yeast blend that gives this tequila its extra refined flavour. It’s then time for American white oak casks for 14 months to smooth out further and the result... there’s a sublime taste of pure roasted agave and it’s brimming with toffee penny, dark chocolate, and sweetly spiced oak notes. Every single sip tastes like Christmas so waste no time in getting it open on the day itself. No George included but you can’t have everything!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £60.99

 

If you want to mix up belting Margaritas with the above beauties or find other tequila cocktails to try with them, check out our Best Selection here!

Words by Calum Ecroyd