Mixing Martinis on a Budget: Wallet-Friendly Vodkas to Try

Vodka is everywhere these days, and whilst that means tonnes of quality bottles, it also unfortunately means there are some stinkers. If you’re making a vodka cocktail like a Martini, then a good quality vodka has to be at the heart of it or else it’s doomed to fail.

But that doesn’t mean breaking the bank. These are our wallet-friendly vodkas that will never let you or your Martinis down, all coming in below or just above £20!

Finlandia Vodka

Introducing Finlandia Vodka, and no prizes for guessing where it’s made. This Finnish sensation is as smooth as glacial ice, in part because it’s crafted with care using glacial spring water. Because of this, drinkers sometimes enjoy it frozen but chilled is plenty good enough to enjoy the purity. With six-row barley and a century-old distillery in the mix, Finlandia brings both tradition and freshness to your glass and is a stunning all-rounder for Martinis.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £17.99

Emperor Original Vodka

Introducing the regal Emperor Original Vodka, hand-crafted by Master Distillers using a secret recipe, each bottle carries the legacy of over 300 years of vodka heritage. Crafted with precision, this vodka undergoes five meticulous distillations, resulting in silky smoothness and zero burn, before it comes to rest in that striking 1920s art nouveau/deco bottle. The original represents great value and consistency for all Martinis but check out their flavoured range too – the Chocolate would make for a delicious Chocolatini.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £19.99

Five Vodka

Five Vodka is a delightful Welsh creation from the renowned makers of Penderyn whisky. Distilled five times and charcoal-filtered, it boasts a smooth and subtly malty taste with a peppery twist and captures the wild essence of its surroundings using glacier-fed Brecon Beacons water. Five Vodka's unique and memorable character shines through when enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but its spicy, herbal, and nutty tones add tremendous depth to a Martini too – a really classy number for the price.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £19 (usually more!)

Stoli Red Label Vodka

Behold, Stoli– a Latvian marvel crafted from the finest wheat and rye. Its threefold filtration process, including quartz and charcoal, bestows a pure, crisp taste that adds a touch of elegance beyond the price point. There is a touch of menthol, orange and a creamy grain quality that makes this a benchmark budget option. It won’t let you or your cocktail down.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £19.45

Discarded Grape Skin Chardonnay Vodka

A unique zero-waste wonder this one, as it’s crafted from grape skins, stems, and seeds leftover from winemaking, distilled to perfection, and blended with Chardonnay alcohol leftover from alcohol-free wine. Unsurprisingly, this is fruit-forward with green apple and tropical notes, as well as hints of almond croissants, and a bright lift of lychee. It really stands out from the crowd so if you’re tired of neutral vodkas, you’ve gotta give this a go.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £22

Tattu Premium Original

After one sip of this, you’ll realise that it could easily be more expensive, but thankfully it isn’t! Distilled five times through old copper pots and infused with various botanicals, it delivers an elegant and burn-free experience that London's mixologists adore. Natural, expertly crafted and no harshness whatsoever, use for a dry Martini and enjoy.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £22.99

Ketel One Vodka

It doesn’t really get more tried and tested than Ketel One – they’ve been around since 1691! A mixology mainstay around the world for its versatility in cocktails, their neutral flagship liquid is deliciously creamy with subtle honied citrus and a smooth finish that makes drinking it dangerously easy. Completely and utterly reliable for all of your Martini needs.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.50

Well, now you’ve got your vodka you need some stunning Martini recipes, luckily, we can oblige! Here are 10 of the Best Martini Variations to make at home!

One Drink, Three Ways: Albariño Mar de Frades

One Drink, Three Ways is the signature feature by The Three Drinkers. Join us as we take one bottle or style and create a trio of phenomenal serves that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. From rums and whiskies to gins and wine, we’ll help you get the most from your glass.

The Albariño wine grape that’s making a big splash around the world most famously hails from Rias Baixas in Galicia in northern Spain, where 90% of production is fine white wine made with it. Rias Baixas is a region characterised by a unique, damp, coastal climate where this thick-skinned white grape thrives, producing wines with lively acidity, aromatic intensity and flavours of citrus, peach and tropical stone fruit with a characteristic saline note. 

One of the leading wine producers in the region is Mar de Frades with their range of beautiful Albariño wines all presented in eye-catching, blue bottles mirroring the crisp freshness of the wine and their coastal home. Founded in 1987 in D.O Rías Baixas, Mar de Frades is located in the Salnés Valley, where characteristic Atlantic breezes and granite soils give the grapes their saline, fresh, citric and mineral profile. Here are three classic styles of Rias Baixas Albariño to try made by Mar de Frades.

---

Classic, Crisp & Citrusy

Mar de Frades Albariño: Classic Albariño is made in a style that’s light and lemony with a peachy note, a saline core and subtly bitter finish. Super refreshing, this classic style is made in stainless steel and tasted young. It is the perfect pairing for seafood dishes or even just sipped alone as an aperitif.

Mar de Frades

Albariño

---

Gastronomic Albariño

Mar de Frades Finca Valiñas: More and more Albariño is being made in a gastronomic style, where oak ageing is used as well as some extended ageing on lees (the dead yeast cells) to add texture, creaminess and depth of flavour. These processes make the wines ideal for ageing longer and for pairing with richer fish dishes and white meats especially. 

Mar de Frades

Finca Valiñas

---

Sparkling Albariño

Mar de Frades

Brut Nature, Sparkling

Mar de Frades Brut Nature: Much more rare is a sparkling Albariño, but we are starting to see them produced! These ‘espumoso’ wines are made in the traditional method like Champagne and give crisp, lemony and saline notes with elegant, yeasty complexity - perfect as an aperitif or with fish & chips.

Like this? Check our our other One Drink, Three Ways pieces: Belvedere Organic Infusions, Tanqueray Gin and The Macallan 12.

The Most Popular Rum Cocktails

Since bars opened back up again a couple of years ago, rum-based cocktails have been one of the favourite cocktail groups amongst drinkers. From herby refreshers to exotic blends, these tropical elixirs are unique in their ability to transport us to a tropical paradise, but they’re also very easy to get wrong. So, these are the most popular rum cocktails in the world, and how you can make them at home!

Mojito

Rum, mint, and lime – the ultimate refresher is the world’s favourite rum concoction, and very nearly the world’s favourite cocktail if it wasn’t for that pesky Margarita. It may not be quite as trendy as during its 2000s surge, but the Mojito’s popularity is undeniable, loved for it’s natural, breezy, and fresh feel.

Ingredients
50ml white rum
juice of 1 lime
1 tsp sugar/ 15ml sugar syrup
a handful of mint leaves
soda water
Garnish: mint

 Method
Crush a handful of mint leaves with the lime juice and sugar (syrup is easier, but if you use sugar make sure it’s dissolved). Add ice and your favourite white rum. Top up with soda water, gently stir to combine, garnish with mint, and enjoy. Mojit-oh yes!

Top Tip: Always crush the mint leaves as opposed to dicing to unlock all those flavoursome oils.

Piña Colada

Another simple recipe that involves three bold flavours working together – the tropical paradise that is the Piña Colada. Definitely more of a summer serve, this may be the second most popular rum cocktail (battling with the one below). Sweet and creamy, it’s fragrant and fresh with coconut cream and pineapple intertwining with the hearty kick from the rum. Use fresh juice!

Ingredients
60ml white rum
60ml coconut cream
120ml crushed pineapple/pineapple juice
Garnish: pineapple wedge

Method
The most popular is to blend everything with ice to create a thick boozy smoothie – you may need to crush the ice if your blender has seen better days! Tropical decorations are a must.

Is this your favourite rum cocktail? Check out our innovative twists on the recipe here!

Daiquiri

The Daiquiri may be slightly better known for super sweet slush puppies these days, but when done right it’s absolutely delicious and that’s why it’s competing with the Piña Colada to be the second most popular rum cocktail. Pure and simple, it’s just fresh lime juice and a little syrup supporting but not overshadowing quality rum. Easy on the sugar until you find the ratio you enjoy most!

Ingredients
60ml rum (Light or White, like Havana Club 3-year-old rum)
20ml lime juice
20ml sugar syrup
Garnish: lime twist

Method
Shake everything with ice – do not blend please. Then strain into a chilled cocktail glass, add the lime twist and enjoy!

Top Tip: A blend of two different rums is often used by bartenders, so half white and half Demerara or Jamaican for example.

Is the Daiquiri your favourite rum cocktail? We’ve been experimenting with various twists on the original here!

Zombie

The Zombie has been around since 1934, and the name supposedly comes from the hungover customer who requested the drink and reportedly turned into a zombie for the rest of his trip! There are a few different ways to make it, but really you want three different types of rum, Caribbean falernum liqueur and fresh lime, pineapple, and grapefruit juices. It takes more time than the other rum cocktails, but there’s a reason it’s ordered so much and that’s for the layers of boozy, tropical flavour.

Ingredients
30ml dark rum
30ml light rum
20ml overproof rum
10ml falernum liqueur
30ml lime juice
10ml pink grapefruit juice
20ml apricot brandy
30ml pineapple juice
10ml grenadine
Pinch of salt (optional)
Garnish: orange slice/maraschino cherry/sprig of mint/pineapple wedge

Method
Shake everything except the overproof rum with ice, strain over fresh and ice and float the overproof rum on top!

Mai Tai

Tiki mainstay the Mai Tai is popular wherever you go, and although the history of the drink involves homemade rum and homemade orgeat, things are going to be a little easier today. The warmth of the rum anchors this tropical delight as boozy citrus and nuttiness play off deliciously. Mai Tai derives from the Tahitian word maita’I which means ‘good’ but trust us when we say that’s an understatement.

 Ingredients
60ml blended rum (like Appleton)
20ml lime juice
20ml orgeat syrup
15ml orange liqueur
Garnish: mint sprig

Method
Take everything aside from the mint and shake with crushed ice until you feel and see that the shaker is frosted. Strain over fresh crushed ice and delicately poise the mint spring – voila, one Mai Tai!

Cuba Libre

Whether it’s true or not we don’t know, but the story goes that a U.S army captain was toasting to Cuba’s freedom during the Spanish-American war using this drink. Interestingly, Coca-Cola hasn’t always been available on the island and it’s a key part of this cocktail. This is as easy as cocktails get, so if you mess this up then maybe reconsider mixology as a hobby! Lime juice tames the sweet cola a little which works wonders with the caramelly, vanilla goodness of the rum.

 Ingredients
60ml rum
120ml cola
2 lime wedges

Method
Fill a highball with ice, add the rum and then top up with cola. Squeeze one lime wedge and throw it in, and garnish with the other! A nice little upgrade on a classic rum and coke.

These are the most popular rum cocktails, but perhaps your favourite isn’t in here? Not to worry, because here are 7 Delicious Rum Cocktails, some of which aren’t as popular but who knows, they might be on this list one day.

Whisky Wanderlust: Crossing Oceans, Capturing Flavours

There are many whiskies that aren’t American that can be found in the USA. Now that the tariff war is long gone, the UK has left the EU, and many companies have increased their distribution, there are more whiskies than ever being offered to the US market from the traditional markets, such as Scotland, Ireland and Japan.

The following whiskies are some of my favourites which reach the US and don’t cost the earth. In the US there is the advantage of a larger bottle, and taxes aren’t quite so high, so there is great value to be had. So, with that said, let me introduce 8 bottles you are sure to love.

Mortlach 12 Year Old

The beast of Dufftown, Mortlach is one of the best sherry led whiskies in Speyside. It is big, oily and rich, but also has great finesse and depth of flavour with sweet honey and dates, with lots of fruit cake flavours and touches of spice, oak and chocolate. This is the most expensive whisky on my list, and it’s worth it. It’s great for gifting with its smart new branding brought in a few years ago. It is a decadent whisky which I would serve by itself, with a little water, or if you wanted a superior old fashioned, this single malt whisky would do the trick.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 43.4%
Find it here: $53.99

Nikka Days

Japanese whisky prices seem to have gone through the roof lately, especially for single malts. However, the blended whiskies from Japan can be excellent as well. One has to be slightly careful in Japan with blended whisky as quite a lot of it is in fact Scotch! This one however is all Japanese with Coffey Grain, un-peated Miyagikyo single malt, Coffey malt and a touch of Yioichi malt, this is a complex and delicious blended whisky. There are sweet notes and bright floral notes mixing with fruits, vanilla and caramel giving a long finish. Like many things Japanese, this has precision and elegance.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $49.99

Tullibardine Artisan

This whisky is simply incredible value. Back in the 1980’s a single malt Scotch would have cost around $25, and this is the price of this single malt Scotch today! Matured exclusively in ex-Bourbon barrels, it is sweet and unctuous with honey, vanilla fudge and digestive biscuits. Whisky Advocate Magazine in the US rated this whisky a best buy at 91 point. If you wanted to try malt whisky from Scotland for the 1st time, I’d recommend this one.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $24.99

Speyburn Arranta

This single malt like the Tullibardine, uses ex-Bourbon barrels, but in this case they are all 1st fill barrels, meaning that no Scotch has been in them before this filling which gives them an extra sweetness and depth of flavour. This whisky also has a touch of spice and lots of orchard fruits giving it plenty of character but keeping it all smooth and easy to drink. For me this is best over ice on a hot day, or even with soda making a highball. It’s got enough oomph to handle being diluted yet still providing plenty of flavour.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 46%
Find it here: $44.99

Glenmorangie X

This expression from Glenmorangie has been made purely with mixing in mind. There is plenty of rich sweetness, but also spice and rich oaky flavours, It’ll make a great highball, but is best in cocktails like a whisky sour. It mixes extremely well with cola, especially diet cola as the sweetness in the whisky can really shine through and isn’t competing with a naturally sugary drink. My favourite way to drink it is simply with lots of ice, soda and a dash of lemon juice and bitters

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $39.99

Ballantine’s 12

This is one of the world’s best blends. If you are used to drinking Ballantine’s Finest, this will be a little different, Finest is lighter and more floral in nature, whilst Ballantine’s 12 year old is richer and has more honey, caramel and toffee notes. There is a touch of spice to keep things interesting, but ultimately this is a smooth easy sipping blended Scotch. With the youngest whisky in the bottle being 12 years old, there are older whiskies in the blend giving further depth and pleasure.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $37.99

Glenfarclas 12 Year Old

This is the quintessential sherry matured Speyside single malt scotch. There are lots of Christmas cake flavours of raisins, currants, dates and apricots with complex spices including nutmeg, cinnamon and anise. There are sweeter toffee flavours and orange marmalade as well. A touch over 40% abv gives the flavours that little extra boost and the finish lasts for ages. If you’re feeling decadent, this makes the perfect Old Fashioned especially if you make one the traditional way with a cube of brown sugar rather than syrup.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: $50.99

Jameson Black Barrel

Last and by no means least, I have an Irish whisky. If you’re used to Jameson’s regular whisky, this is a good step up and you’ll find it hard to go back! The barrels used to mature this spirit have had extra charring which concentrates the flavours giving extra richness and smoothness which also comes from a triple distillation process which is different from Scotch’s double distillation. There is lots of vanilla sweetness and caramel with orchard fruits, a touch of tropical banana typical of Irish whisky, and warming spices. Don’t wait for a winter fireside with this one, it’s fabulous on the rocks in the evening sun.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $42.99

All the above I have enjoyed many times over the years, and they have never disappointed. They have even kept my bank balance happy. I love sharing these with whisky lovers and those new to whisky alike and they have changed many people’s minds over the quality of blends over single malts and that Japanese whisky doesn’t have to break the bank. Find a flavour profile you like the look of, sit back and enjoy the rest of the summer.

Words by Colin Hampden-White

One Drink Three Ways: Crazy Gin Clear Lassi Gin

One Drink, Three Ways is the signature feature by The Three Drinkers. Join The Three Drinkers’ Helena, Aidy and Colin as they take one bottle and create a trio of phenomenal serves which you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. From rums and whiskies to gins and wine styles, the three help you get the most out of your glass. It’s time to get liquid on lips.

---

The fusion of British Indian food is well known and widely loved, but why isn’t there a drinking equivalent? This was the question that the Singh’s pondered, and they decided to answer it themselves. Step up - Crazy Gin. Bringing together the refreshment of Indian yoghurt drink Lassi with classics from your spice drawer like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, Crazy Gin created the world’s first clear Lassi Gin. Balance it out with floral juniper and sweet pomegranate, and a fantastically unique and interesting gin was born. We’ve been wondering how Crazy Gin could breathe new life into cocktails and have listed the best ideas below. Have a try and let us know how you might build a cocktail around Lassi gin!

---

Helena’s Choice: Mad Negroni

---

I love a Negroni and because it’s so simple, it’s perfect to experiment with. The Mad Negroni is ever so slightly sweeter, fuller, and spicier and the result is totally moreish. Simply fill a mixing glass with ice, pour all the ingredients on top and stir well. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice.

Mad Negroni

Recipe

25ml Crazy Gin Lassi

25ml Campari

25ml White Port

---

Aidy’s Choice: Crazy Gin Pina Colada

---

If you like piña coladas, and makin’ them more insane...

That would work better with music to be fair.

The extra flavour of the Lassi gin brings an interesting twist to this classic. The cream of the Crazy Gin works wonderfully with the coconut, and the subtle spice with the turmeric intertwines beautifully to add a whole new layer to proceedings. Fill a mixing glass with one scoop of crushed ice. No messing around with this, pour all the ingredients into a mixing glass and stir until everything is chilled. Strain over fresh ice cubes into a hurricane glass and garnish with pineapple leaves, pineapple slice, umbrella, whatever you want! 

Crazy Gin Pina Colada

Recipe

50ml Crazy Gin Lassi

25 ml Coconut Cream

50ml Pineapple Juice

5ml Double Cream

10ml Sugar Syrup (2:1)

Pinch of Turmeric

Pinch salt

---

Colin’s Choice: Crazy Gin Old Fashioned

---

I love trying spin offs of my beloved Old Fashioned, and this quirky adaptation really works for a lighter and sweeter drink. The coconut and yoghurt flavours add an intriguing twist, filling the cocktail out. Stir all the ingredients together with ice, add a wedge of mango for complimentary garnish and enjoy on the rocks. 

Crazy Gin Old Fashioned

Recipe

50ml Crazy Gin Lassi

7.5ml Coconut Syrup (2.5g Demerara sugar, 5g Coconut water, mix until sugar has dissolved)

UK
ABV: 41%
Size: 500ml
Buy it now for £39.94

If you liked this, go and see what we recommend for Mandarin and Ginger Soda, Nouaison Gin Reserve, or Aloha 65!

The Top Things to Do in Cognac

The Three Drinkers in Cognac explores everything drinks in the beautiful region of Cognac, from the namesake star of the show to Grand Marnier to our own gin experimentation… but there are a lot of amazing things we couldn’t fit in too!

As much as we adore it, there is much more to Cognac than Cognac, so if you’re eying up a tour of the region or a quick day trip from Bordeaux, here are some other interesting things to get up to! Allons-y!

For the history lovers

Explore the Château de Cognac

Overlooking the Charente River, the Royal Castle of Cognac began life as a fortress built to halt Norman invasions in the 10th century, but in the 15th century it became a more peaceful place as one of the most beautiful stately homes in Europe. One of France’s most famous kings, Francois I, was born there in 1494 and despite this heritage it nearly fell into disrepute centuries later. That was until a certain Baron Otard stepped in, making the most of the robust walls to age the eaux-de-vie of his namesake Cognac House. The tour encompasses all of this and so much more including secret underground cellars, prison cells, Cognac production (and tasting) as well as stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture around every corner.

For bookings, try the official website here.

Caverns and caves

Situated a short drive east of Cognac is Caves Quéroy, a dramatic and magical cavern set into the surrounding forest. For under $10 for an adult, a tour guide escorts you through explaining the rich history of the surrounding area as well as all the stalagmites (or is it stalactites?) you can dream of. Further afield, there is the unforgettable Monolithic Church of Saint-Jean of Aubeterre to the south and the famous Caves of the Régulus – troglodyte caves cut into the cliff dating back millions of years.

There is no website for Caves Quéroy unfortunately, but Trip Advisor has a bit more info!

For the foodies

Amazing restaurants

One of the homes of luxury drinks was always going to have mastered gastronomy as well, wasn’t it? Unsurprisingly, top-class restaurants line the streets and river and, well, pretty much everywhere. L’atelier des quais provides one of the best views of medieval Cognac and there are no less than 7 Michelin starred restaurants too, from the traditional L’Essile to the modern La Poulpette to the creative geniuses La Ribaudiére (who we visit in the show!).

Sweet treats

Let’s not forget also about decadent chocolate makers like Chocolaterie Letuffe and mouth-watering boulangeries such as Maison Lemetayer that also treat Aidy and Helena on their travels. Chocolate and Cognac is an iconic pairing so stopping by somewhere like this to buy the perfect pairing for your Cognac is a must.

Place d’Armes

Inspired by the covered markets of the 19th century and designed by architect Victor Ballard, the iron-roofed Place d’Armes market is the liveliest in the whole region. Open Tuesday through to Sunday, it’s a food lover’s dream with mouth-watering selections of breads, pâté, organic produce, saucissons, seafood and most famously, that beautiful local cheese. Graze on the stalls with a glass of wine as you go, or take your buys to the nearby Charente River – glorious.

For the ACTIVE TRAVELLERS

Travel The Charente River

Cognac is the focal point of the region, but it’s small and easy to explore on foot so it’s worth making your way to some of the local towns and villages. Luckily, the stunning Charente river connects most of them! 147km of the river is navigable from Rochefort near the coast, to Angouleme inland. There are various places along the river where you can rent canoes, kayaks, pedalos or larger cruisers and if you’d rather stay on terra firma, bikes and e-scooter rental is common along the riverbank too and you can be at nearby Jarnac in under an hour.

For canoes in Cognac: try the Cognac Canoe Club
For boat hire in Cognac: try Les Canalous

Off-road biking and adventure sports

This part of France is also known for its picturesque cycling routes, particularly heading west out of Cognac towards the Atlantic. Whether you picture casually gliding through the French countryside, weaving through the forests or want to fully get your Tour de France on, there are routes for you. There are also adventure sports like treetop courses, zip lines, archery, orienteering races and horse riding at nature centres like Le Chambon Station, just a 20-minute drive from the centre of Cognac.

Explore cycle routes here!

For the relaxers

Jardin Public

When the sun is shining, there are few places better to kick back, relax, picnic, or read a book than this spot. Despite being in the centre of the town, it’s incredibly tranquil with historic buildings, beautifully maintained gardens, picturesque streams, fountains, and ducks ambling around for good measure. If you can’t pull together a glorious picnic from the shops and markets of the New Town then we’re sorry but there’s just no hope for you! 

Honestly, every corner of the Cognac commune is easy on the eye and the same for the countless smaller villages up and downstream. Loaded with history, beautiful drinks, mouth-watering food and rolling French countryside there is so much to see.

There are plenty of stunning places to stay in and around Cognac, but for the true five-star experience, we have to recommend the stately Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa. Converted from Monnet Cognac’s old cellar, it only opened in 2018. With its own elegant brasserie, expansive spa, jazz bar, lounge and Michelin-starred restaurant (Les Foudres)… it is more than fitting of the luxury brandy itself.

If you want to learn more about the inevitable star of the show though, check out Our Beginner’s Guide to Cognac here!

Tequila vs Mezcal: What’s the difference?

Celebrity brands, the dominant Margarita and the fastest-growing spirit in the world… it’s fair to say that tequila is on the rise, and it’s bringing mezcal along with it. As more and more drinkers discover tequila works as a premium sipper and not just a throat-burning shot, the word ‘mezcal’ is popping up more and more.

It’s still a mystery to some however, so today we’re answering all those questions you have about these two drinks. Are they the same thing? Is tequila a mezcal? Is mezcal a tequila? Which is better? Is there really a worm involved? Vamos!

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TEQUILA AND MEZCAL?

To put it simply, it’s all about the agave plant. Mezcal covers all agave-based spirits, whereas tequila must only be made using the Blue Weber agave plant and in five authorised states - Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, or Tamaulipas.

The situation is similar to that of many other drinks such as Cognac and Champagne in that tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not a type of tequila.

Oh yeah - the worm. Now, the origins aren’t that well known, unfortunately, but it doesn’t appear to be very traditional and probably began as a marketing ploy. Disappointing we know. You will still find it in many batches though and some people say it improves the flavour! Interestingly, this is associated way more with mezcal than tequila.

Tequila tends to be divided by ageing, from younger Blanco to Reposado right through to older Añejo blends. Mezcal, on the other hand, is usually split up into mezcal, artisanal, or ancestral, and these are more concerned with production methods. It has to be said however that ageing and production methods differ and overlap with both spirits.

These differences do of course have a knock-on effect on other similarities and differences between the two, so let’s explore these two incredible spirits further…

How mezcal uses agave

Whilst undeniably less well known, mezcal actually has a deeper-rooted Mexican history than tequila, with hugely varied production methods and terroir resulting in an interesting and varied spirit.

More closely associated with village and family production. It has been created in Mexico for at least four centuries and translates loosely as ‘baked agave’. The mezcal industry isn’t a wild west of unregulated moonshine-style setups though. It can only be produced in eight states for starters, with Oaxaca being the most common. Over thirty different agave plants have been used in mezcal but 90% of the time it’s Espadin, which is then usually roasted under stone and distilled in clay pots or copper stills.

Different areas grow different agave, however, such as Michoacán where strains such as Americana and Cupreata flourish. This, compared with the different terroir results in all kinds of varying mezcals being produced. And that’s before the impact of barrel ageing is even considered!

Mezcal is produced in nine different states in Mexico. The vast majority comes from Oaxaca, with the rest coming from the Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacán and Puebla states. It is still mostly made by small-scale producers in tiny distilleries and its production is steeped in tradition, often being a family affair, with methods being passed down from generation to generation.

Unlike tequila which can only be made from the blue agave plant, mezcal can be produced from many different varieties, as well as blends of more than one agave. The most commonly used agave are Espadín, Tobalá, Arroqueño, Tepeztate and Tobaziche.

How tequila uses agave

The production process of tequila and mezcal is mostly the same, but as mentioned above, it has to use Blue Weber agave and be made in a stricter number of states (though most come out of Jalisco). Also, it has to be minimum 50% agave, though you’ll notice that the best always use 100% anyway. What’s so special about Blue Weber, you might be wondering?

It has more sugar than the other agave plants which makes distillation easier, and the reproduction, strength and overall life cycle are much more favourable for production. Generally, it leads to a herbal profile with spicy citrus notes, but like mezcal, it is a very malleable spirit in terms of adapting the flavour. Tahona stone wheel crushing is used for added sweetness, barrels usually impart notes such as American oak’s caramelly vanilla or French oak’s dry fruits.

During the cooking method, agave earmarked for a future of tequila will normally be steamed, whereas as mentioned before, mezcal agave is more likely to be roasted. This is why the most famous way of spotting the difference between the two is smokiness, but with so much variety that is by no means a sure-fire way of telling.

3 mezcals to try

Ojo de Dios Joven

This is a joven blend, which equates to the youngest time of ageing possible. After ten days of roasting and double distillation, Ojo de Dios Joven is bottled. As a result, this is a mezcal that really pronounces the smokiness some drinkers adore, as well as a bold hit of fresh fruit. This is a really great entry-level mezcal to let you gauge what kind of blend you might be into.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £39

Ilegal Reposado

Hailing from the world-famous Oaxaca region, this mezcal shows off the power of American oak ageing. After being twice distilled in copper stills and absorbing those flavours in the barrel, it has slightly caramelly woody aromas and, although there is a touch of smoke on the palate, you’ll notice vanillery butterscotch more. Award-winning for good reason.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £59.45

Mezcal Tasting Set

If you’re a complete newbie then rather than committing to a whole bottle of mezcal, this may be the way forward. After all, if you’re trying a totally new drink then you might pick a cheap bottle to avoid wasting money only to find out it’s nasty stuff and you’re scarred for life (that’s not to say there aren’t affordable gems out there). There are five distinct samples here celebrating mezcal’s diversity to shine some light on your mezcal journey’s first steps.

Size: 15cl each
ABV: 42.4%
Find here: £28.95 5x15cl

3 tequilas to try

El Espolòn Blanco

This Jalisco highlands Blanco is beautiful in more ways than one. A Day of the Dead rooster riding skeleton makes this a bottle to keep, even if the liquid inside will soon be guzzled down. Bottled without aging, fresh agave fills the nose followed by a sweet florality. It’s a fantastic Blanco to try from one of the most renowned producers in Jalisco.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £59.45

Patrón Reposado

Patrón is one of the most respected tequila houses in Mexico, so you know you’re in safe hands with them. Their beautifully bottled amber Reposado has been adorned with Masters awards, praised for fresh citrus, smooth vanilla and a gorgeous honeyed agave. Reliably delicious.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £49.95

1800 Añejo Tequila

Another bottle that proves why tequila bottles are our favourites – this one honours the Mayan pyramids! Dressed in that inviting caramel colouring is woody spice from over a year of French oak aging. If you’ve found that agave-forward tequila or mezcal isn’t for you, then this is a great one to try.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £50

If you want to know more about the mezcal production process then there’s some fascinating insight in our, ‘What is What is Mezcal??’ article!

Santorini Wines: Your ABC Guide

Greek wines from both the mainland and the islands are becoming ever more popular as people return from their holidays having tasted some pretty special sips. Quality has skyrocketed over recent years and we are now starting to see more Greek wines on the shelves in our supermarkets and indies as well as on restaurant lists. Santorini seems to be leading the way with its zesty, foodie, white wines made from the Assyrtiko grape, so is well worth a closer look. Here is your ABC guide to the PDO white wines of Santorini with some to try…

What and where?

Santorini is a small archipelago of Greek, volcanic islands in the southern Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece, though "Santorini" is commonly used to refer to the largest and most famous island of the group.

Ancient history

Proof of winemaking on the island has been found dating back  to 20-30 centuries BC with some important findings from the bronze age. This is why the island is described as a ‘living museum’ with the oldest, uninterrupted vine cultivation in the world. The community is working towards earning Santorini UNESCO status to safeguard its vines and practices. 

Assyrtiko: Queen of Grapes

There are 64 wine grapes on the island of which 59 are known. However, only 3 of them are allowed in the PDO: Protected Designation of Origin, which ensures the highest quality in the wines. The hero grape is Assyrtiko - a white grape indigenous to Santorini. It has a vibrant yellow, thick skin and makes gastronomic wines that keep their freshness and acidity despite the heat and relatively high alcohol levels. Assyrtiko wines tend to be delicately aromatic, citrussy and very saline. They’re often aged on their lees (dead yeast cells) and see some bâtonnage (lees stirring) to add a richer, creamier texture. 

Labour intensive, unique viticulture

Santorini is super hot, exceedingly dry and very windy with infertile, volcanic soils. The subsoil is just over 60% pumice with very shallow, loose ‘volcanic dirt’ over the top. Pumice works well to save water here and black lava stones absorb heat away from the vines. To combat the heat and wind and to maximise the water that comes almost entirely from the morning mists, vines are trained into circular, nest shapes called ‘koulouras’. 

Ungrafted vines

On the plus side, there are no pests to contend with and very little disease as the environment is so harsh. This also means that vines here are immune to the phylloxera louse, so they remain ungrafted, with some roots said to be centuries old. These old vines have incredibly deep roots and give the wines dramatically low yields. The result is more concentrated, particularly mineral wines of top quality. 

PDO Santorini

PDO Santorini: Wines must be 85% Assyrtiko, with the rest made up of Aidani and Aithiri, which are softer and more aromatic. The best wines are said to be always made from 100% Assyrtiko. If the label just says Assyrtiko, it’s not PDO Santorini.

PDO Santorini ‘Nykteri’: Nyketri means ‘working all through the night’ as grapes were harvested in the small hours to keep them cooler. The expression now refers to oaked versions of these white wines, where the oak mabe older and larger to add more texture than flavour or newer for a more oaky taste. Whichever style, Nkyteri wines offer a lot of structure and are often described as ‘white wines that drink like red’.

PDO Santorini Vinsanto: These are sweet, late harvest wines that must be made with at least 80% Assyrtiko. They are dried in the sun and fermented very slowly in open vats before being aged in wooden barrels for at least 2 years. The result is moreish, sweet wines that are well balanced and fresh with notes of toffee, mocha, nuts and caramel. They love chocolate and cheese!

Modern Versus Traditional Styles

There has been lots of work in recent years to up the quality in all PDO Santorini wines to showcase the purity of the varietal. Since 2016 particularly, there has been a huge quality push with Assyrtiko becoming more premium, dry, steely, fresh and pure in style. Producers are being incentivised to keep their vines and not sell the land for tourism, so they are being paid much larger amounts for their yields. In turn, this has meant that much more attention is being paid to the winemaking process. There used to be a lot more residual sugar allowed in for example and styles really varied a lot with many Nykteri wines particularly being more oxidative, like a fino Sherry. 

PDO Santorini wines to try

Sigalas Santorini PDO Assyrtiko, 2021

£33 from Maltby & Greek 

Santo Nykteri PDO Assyrtiko-Athiri-Aidani, 2021

£28.50 from Maltby & Greek

Estate Argyros Vinsanto First Release, 2015

£39.90 from 8Wines