7 No-Lo Drinks You’ll Actually Want to Try

7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

Underwhelmed by the non-alcoholic alternatives you’ve tried before? Need something to keep you going through the rest of Dry January? We’re here to help.

We’ve tried lots of No-Lo concoctions and know as well as you do that many of them are lacking. But it’s a flourishing industry and there’s more and more effort and innovation going into it, meaning some tremendous bottles are out there. We’ve listed 7 top notch No-Lo alternatives for some of the most loved boozy drinks below that we think deliver.

The Best Gin Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Pentire Seaward Spirit

pentire 7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

This coastal gem takes influence from the botanicals found growing around it in North Cornwall. Expect a refreshing selection of sea rosemary, sea buckthorn, wild seaweed, and a characterful maritime feel, as well as zesty grapefruit and floral woodruff – it’s really so unique. It has a great reputation for winning round first-time sippers, and in the world of No-Lo gin, that’s high praise.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £19.95 (usually £22.95!)

The Best Pink Gin Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Warners Distillery Pink Berry Spirit

warners pink berry 7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

This is an exquisite effort that captures the botanical beauty of a top gin. The floral nose is indistinguishable from a pink gin, and as the medley of succulent strawberries, raspberries, and vibrant, tangy citrus blossoms, it’s heaven. The juniper comes to the fore, and there’s so much balance with herbal and warm spicy notes too. The complete package.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £17.89

The Best Rum Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Lyre's Non-Alcoholic Dark Cane Spirit

lyre's 7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

We’ve featured bottles from the Lyre’s range before, because they’re such a reliable and expansive provider of No-Lo deliciousness. Inside the charming bottle is a full-flavoured spirit that delivers on its molasses promise right away. Caramel, vanilla, maple, fig, and toasted nuts are in tow. It’s indulgent, and mixed with cola, ginger ale, or other rum favourites, it will not disappoint.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £20.95 (usually £23.49)

The Best Tequila Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

CleanCo Clean T

clean t 7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

CleanCo have produced this stylish bottle that you can now find in some supermarkets. It’s their take on a blanco tequila, with a vegetal agave hint coming through nicely. Herbs like mint and basil gently intertwine with lime and lemon, the latter of which is particularly tasty on the finish when joined by some warm pepper. It goes down so well with pretty much anyone that tries it, so find out for yourself!

Size: 700ml
ABV: Less than 0.5%
Find here: £16

The Best Irish Cream Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Twisst Irish Caramel Cream

twisst irish cream 7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

The aim of this one is to unashamedly replicate Bailey’s, and if you ask us, they succeed. It’s ready to go in the can, greeting you with rich cream aroma after cracking open. It’s velvety smooth, with chocolate and vanilla coating the mouth and an opulence to every sip. It’s sweet, sure, but it’s surprisingly refreshing, particularly when served chilled. Many people’s go to Irish Cream replacement!

Size: 235ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £17.40 (8 x 235ml)

The Best Spritz Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Salcombe New London Light Aegean Sky Spirit

7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

This is a super refreshing aperitif carrying a lovely bit of sun from the Mediterranean. Citrus notes burst through, with inviting layers of bitter blood orange and aromatic bergamot enveloping herbaceous rosemary and savoury olives. The balance is deliciously harmonious and the result is a stand-out spirit… and one that also donates some sales to the Marine Conservation Society!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £23.99

The Best Whisky Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Three Spirit The Nightcap

7 no-lo drinks you'll actually want to try best alcohol-free alternatives the three drinkers

If you’re after something with the soothing warmth of whisky, then this is it. Botanicals like turmeric, ginger, vanilla, and lemon balm are all distinct yet mellow in an expression feels self-assured. It’s decidedly complex too, sweetened with a little maple syrup and holding onto the natural herbaceous Ness that’s there. With valerian, hops and ashwagandha, it really comes into it’s own before bed (hence the name) rather than as a day time whisky replacement.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £22.49

If it’s wine you’re after, then we’ve got an entire article dedicated to Alcohol-Free Wines here!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Waitrose January 2024

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

It’s Supermarket Wine Bargains again, as we’ve been hard at work searching for the best discounted bottles, and this time it’s Waitrose. We’ve got four reds and whites, and a delicious Cava and Rosé suggestion too…and the best part, everything is under £10.

Really punching above their price tag, these bottles are superior to wines twice the price, and with them discounted, there’s no better time to try them! Let’s dive in to the deals.

Waitrose Red Wines January 2024

Maree d'ione Organic Nero di Troia

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

Organic Nero di Trioa grapes from Puglia star in this sumptuous Italian red. The fruits run deep so expect luscious dark cherries, plum and blackberry set against a warming backdrop of cinnamon, pepper, and cloves. There really are few (if any) better red gluggers at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £6.99 (usually £9.99)

Summer Road Old Vine Grenache

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

This Aussie red makes magical use of old Grenache vines, extracting incredible flavour and complexity from those deep roots. There are also fewer grapes, so everything goes into the small yield. Berries star on a subtle nose, but the first sip is where this comes alive. Red fruits are everywhere, with precise acidity, fruity sweetness, and a slight waft of smoke. It’s fantastically well-rounded, and the intense booze is integrated very softly… so be careful not to overdo it, which is easy when it’s this tasty.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £7.49 (usually £9.49)

Terre di Faiano Primitivo Organico Puglia

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

The richness of the blackcurrant nose kicks off this full-bodied, organic red from Italy, before a soft palate unfolds with mellow blackberry, cherry and plum. Chocolate, oak and vanilla round this easy-drinking gem off in satisfyingly style, alongside a a crisp bite on the finish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8.99 (usually £10.99)

Bodega Norton Winemaker's Reserve Malbec

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

This deep and rich Mendoza Malbec from a premium winery is captivating, from the plummy nose to the toasted oaky finish. In between, the flavours are bold but restrain themselves when needed. Think wafts of tobacco and leather, black cherry, blackberry, and a nice bite of acidity. It’s screaming to be served alongside dark meats. £4 off too! – must try.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £13.99)

Waitrose Rosé Wines January 2024

Le Bijou Rosé de Sophie Valrose Coteaux de Béziers, Languedoc

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

This wine is inspired by Sophie Valrose, a legendary figure who campaigned for better working conditions for the female vineyard workers alongside her. This is very much in the dry, crisp profile of French Rosé, with subtle lemon and strawberry and a little cream. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and would cause a few upsets in a blind tasting.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.99 (usually £9.99)

Waitrose White Wines December 2023

Côtes de Gascogne Les Collines de Luza Sauvignon Blanc

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

There’s a third off this refreshing French Sauvignon Blanc, but honestly, we would recommend it even at full price. Hailing from picturesque Gascony, it delivers bright citrus aroma, elegant, light pears, and a slight nuttiness. Serve with fresh salads and fish for a midweek meal.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £5.99 (usually £8.99)

Giesen Dillons Point Sauvignon Blanc

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

This is a benchmark New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, bursting with crisp fruits like apricot, peach, grapefruit, and pineapple. Some limey grass comes through wonderfully too. There’s only a little acidity, so this is very much soft and smooth as Sauvignon Blanc goes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13 %
Find here: £6.99 (usually £9.99)

Fenaroli Pecorino Superiore

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

What a lovely floral expression of the Pecorino grape this is. Casal Thaulero in Abruzzo are the winery behind it, and as such a delicately crisp wine it requires master craftsmanship, which is exactly what has happened. Those wild flowers and citrus notes intertwine majestically, and it would be a dreamy pairing with light pasta and fish dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.49 (usually £10.99)

Yealands Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

Over to the Awatere Valley in New Zealand now for this Sauvignon Blanc, which is as beautiful as the butterflies that flit amongst the coastal vines there. Tropical hints come to the fore here. Think kiwi, mango, lime, and passionfruit, as well as a bright grapefruit tang. The minerality rounds off everything deliciously, and for under £10 you have to give it a go.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.99 (usually £11.99)

Waitrose Sparkling Wine January 2024

Codorniu Seleccion Familia Reserva Organic Cava

supermarket wine bargains waitrose january 2024 the three drinkers

This is a welcome addition to Waitrose’s fizz offering, and is another reliable wine by the Codorniu label. Chardonnay grapes make up half the liquid, with Spanish Macabeo and Xarel-lo from hot Penedés sharing the rest. It’s exceptional value, with nutty, toasty notes coming through from 18 months on lees. The creamy, softness to the orchard fruits is to die for too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £12.99)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Morrisons January 2024

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

We’re back with Supermarket Wine Bargains, and Morrisons have caught our eye with some delicious discounts on wine this January (available until 21st January). We’ve got luscious reds, crisp whites, and a stunning Rosé that all represent incredible quality for the price, Honestly, these wines for under £10 is a steal. Anyway, enough jabbering! Let’s get stuck into the good stuff.

Morrisons Red Wine Discounts January 2024

Mucho Mas Black Label Red

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

Situated not too far from the Spanish capital, Félix Solís is one of the largest family-owned wineries in the world, and Mucho Mas Black Label is their juicy, easy-drinking red. Warm pepper and aromatic vanilla round off the dark fruits for a top-notch midweek glugger.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.50)

19 Crimes The Uprising Red Wine

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

Paying homage to Australia’s 1808 Rum Rebellion, part of this wine has been aged for a month in rum barrels. Mocha and baking spice make up a curious nose, which unfolds into a jammy, chocolatey, oaky bliss. In your face and very, very tasty indeed.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £9.50)

Piccini Memoro Red

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

This Italian red has built up a bit of a reputation for being one of the best affordable reds out there, and deservedly so. It’s flush with warmth, and a pleasant lightness despite the full-bodied fruits. It’s a perfect winter wine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7.50 (usually £8.75)

Porta 6 Red Vinho Regional Lisboa

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

The hilly vineyards above Lisbon enjoy the cooling of the Atlantic breeze, bringing a real distinct freshness to the grapes grown there. This is a light-bodied Portuguese red with rustic feel, carrying blackcurrants and strawberries and a welcome hit of acidity to the finish. This is one to open an hour or two before drinking.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.50)

Pepperbox Shiraz

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

We love this Aussie Shiraz. Full of dark, ripe fruits, with spicy depth and silky soft tannins, it’s a wonderful Sunday Lamb companion. The pepper in particular stands out, as does the dense, thick mouthfeel. Indulgent, warming and great for the money.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Morrisons The Best Negroamaro

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

This is a wine that grabs you by the scruff from the off, hitting you with a delicious blast of rich fruit – blackcurrant, cherries and plums. It doesn’t have the complex depths of some other reds, but if you’re after balanced, punchy flavoursome fruit, then you’ll have no complaints for the money at all.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £7.50 (usually £8.50)

Morrisons White Wine Discounts January 2024

Morrisons The Best Touraine Sauvignon

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

This beauty comes from Chainier, one of the most prominent producers in the Loire. It’s noted for its elegance, balancing elderflower, passion fruit and crunchy lime zest, as well as a distinct grassy note. The bright acidity cleanses the palate tastefully, making it very food friendly.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Brancott Flight Sauvignon Blanc

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this. This is Brancott’s Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with hints of tropical fruits, buttery croissant, and grapefruit. It’s a really solid, well-rounded wine that’s lower in ABV than usual, and naturally 20% lower in calories. A serial award winner for a reason, and great if you’re looking to cut down a little.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £7 (usually £9)

Fete Des Flaveurs Picpoul De Pinet

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

This Languedoc-Roussillon white is inspired by regional flavour festivals, therefore celebrating a medley of local flavours iconic in France. Fresh fruit and citrus come through gracefully, particularly grapefruit with gives great tang. It’s very characterful, and delivers on the crisp, refreshing nature of the signature style.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Morrisons Rosé Wine Discounts January 2024

Barefoot Pink Moscato Rose Wine

supermarket wine bargains morrisons january 2024 the three drinkers

Barefoot’s Californian Rosé is a real crowd pleaser because the beautiful colour comes through upon tasting. Raspberry, cherry and strawberry invite on the nose, and the flavour is award-winning fruity sweetness with a touch of sherbet creaminess. It is towards the sweeter end of Rosé, but it’s delivered incredibly well.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £6 (usually £7.50)

We have Supermarket Wine Bargains on the website for most of the UK supermarkets, and we’re always busy updating them when the latest offers arrive so keep your eyes peeled for more gems!

Elevate Your Dry January Experience with These 8 Alcohol Free Wines

elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

More and more drinkers are doing Dry January, and the alternatives out there are better than they have ever been. Having said that, there are still plenty of No-Low drinks that will fool you into thinking they’re all just as dreary and nothing-y as that one was – particularly when it comes to wine.

Nonetheless, just as there are many underwhelming wines, there are some absolute gems at the other end of the spectrum. These wines are not in the business of compromise. And for well under £10, they’re also incredible value. In fact, they’re appealing enough to make Dry January a breeze.

The Best Non-Alcohol Rosé Wine

Not Guilty Alcohol Free Rosé Wine

elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

This fun bottle doesn’t make the cardinal sin of being too sweet, which is something that seems to ruin some alcohol-free Rosés. There are subtle red berry flavours, tartness, and an alluring lightness that makes for relaxed easy drinking. It really is wonderful value for the runner up at the 2023 World Alcohol-Free Awards.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £4.50 (usually more!)

The Best Non-Alcohol Sparkling Rosé Wine

Oddbird Sparkling Rosé

oddbird elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

If you’ve been into No-Lo wines for a while, then chances are you’ve heard of Oddbird. Their reputation for quality really does precede them, and they’re also making great strides towards sustainability. Their fizzing Rosé displays superb balance, blended from Chardonnay and aged Languedoc-Roussillon Pinot Noir. Gorgeous strawberries come through with lots of freshness, and the dry tang makes sure all that fruity sweetness doesn’t go overboard. If you’re missing Rosé over Dry Jan, then this is a must try.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £9.99

Kylie Minogue Sparkling Rosé Alcohol Free

elekylie elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

This pink beauty is another hit for Kylie, delivering a harmonious balance of florality and juicy red fruits that linger longer than you’d expect. The fizz is gentle but lively and overall, it feels like really well made, light and refreshing Rosé. Great value too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £6 (£4.50 Clubcard Price)

Thomson & Scott Skinny Noughty Organic Alcohol Free Sparkling Rosé

thomson and scott skinny noughty elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

The entire Noughty range focuses on skipping over not only those unnatural inclusions, but also unnecessary sugars, meaning each glass has so few calories and feels clean. The grapes from southern Spain and give a seriously seductive shade of pink. The bubbles are there, the balance of acidity and sweetness is there, and the red berries share the lead role with the juicy grape flavour itself.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £9.50

The Best Non-Alcohol Sparkling Wine

McGuigan Zero Sparkling

mcguigan zero elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

As one of the biggest names in Australian wine, McGuigan have a robust choice in their Zero range these days. Thanks to their state-of-the-art tech, they’re able to remove all the alcohol from these bottles at lower temperatures than usual, retaining even more of the winey goodness. This fizz has an appealing dry bite, with sweetness comparable to Prosecco. Orchard fruits come through with a hit of a refreshment too. For pennies, it is tremendous.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £3£3.5050 (usually more!)

Freixenet 0.0 Alcohol Free Sparkling

freixenet elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

Freixenet’s fizzy offering retains the character of the wine, avoiding the cloying sweetness that so many rivals fall prey to. The fruity nose is very welcoming, yet the first sip is surprisingly dry. It’s not going to blow you away with a myriad of different flavours and depth, but there is a reason so many return to this as their No-Lo sparkler – it’s reliable, quaffable and fools a lot of people into thinking it has booze in it.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%                    
Find here: £4.75

La Gioiosa Alcohol Free Vegan Sparkling

la gioisa elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

This lovely looking Italian No-Lo fizz knocks it out the park for around a fiver. Think fine bubbles, and signature Giera accents of pear, peach and apple, alongside lovely floral notes. Fruity, easy-drinking wine that we’d recommend serving chilled for added refreshment. Solid.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £4.99

Vintense Fine White Bubbles

vintense elevate your dry january experience with these 8 alcohol free wines

Vintense take things in an elegant direction here, capturing the special feel and sophistication of the sparkling wine experience. A fruity bouquet is accompanied by subtle lemon and sun-kissed peach on the palate. This would be delicious with fish, shellfish, oysters and salads too – very food-friendly.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £8.78

Something you might not have considered as an alternative to wine is sparkling teas. They’re flourishing right now, so give something new a go!

One Drink, Three Ways: Cutty Sark Prohibition Whisky

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

One Drink, Three Ways: Cutty Sark Prohibition Whisky

Cutty Sark is an iconic whisky, from the stand-out yellow label (which was actually a printing error that’s stuck), to its Prohibition roots. Dreamt up in London in the 20s, it captured hearts over the Atlantic where speakeasy cocktails thrived and once it actually became legal, its popularity sky rocketed.

Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition was released in 2013 as an ode to these origins, and Captain Bill McCoy (AKA The Real McCoy), who shipped it nearly a century before. It’s a small batch blend of the finest single malts and quality grain whiskies, using carefully chosen American Sherry oak casks. At 50%, it packs a bigger punch than the original, with the signature vanilla and spice coming through as well as crushed nuts, dark chocolate and caramel, before a stunningly smooth finish.


cutty sark prohibition

Pear Cooler

Ingredients:
50ml Cutty Sark Prohibition
20ml fresh lemon juice
20ml ginger syrup
1tsp honey
ginger ale
pear slices

The Prohibition Pear Cooler marries the whisky spice with beautiful ginger syrup for sweetness, and ginger ale for refreshment. Silky honey brings its own aromatic sweetness and texture, and the lemon cuts through nicely before a hit of fresh pear. Method: Muddle the pear, lemon, honey and ginger syrup, and add in your Prohibition. Strain it well (that’s important), before topping up with ginger ale, and a leftover pear slice. Cheers!


the rob roy

The Rob Roy

Ingredients:
50ml Cutty Sark Prohibition
20ml sweet vermouth
dash of orange bitters
orange peel

Prohibition absolutely makes this 19th century classic sing. Malty, smooth, fantastically sweet and with just a little spice on the finish, this whiskey is ideal. Method: Famously simple, all you need to do is shake everything and pour into your cocktail glass, over large ice cubes. A little garnish of orange peel and you’re sorted.


Godfather cocktail the three drinkers one drink three ways cutty sark prohibition whisky

The Godfather

Ingredients:
40ml Cutty Sark Prohibiton
20ml amaretto liqueur
ice

This one is perfect for winter, really bringing out those nutty notes with sweet, luxurious almond flavoured amaretto. Everything is so silky it’s heaven. The sweetness is perfectly poised, and it feels indulgent yet sophisticated. Method: Add some big ice cubes into a glass, and pour in, first your Prohibition, and then the amaretto of your choice (Disaronno is hard to beat). Stir gently, and enjoy.

Like this? Check our our other One Drink, Three Ways pieces here

What is Plaimont and Which Bottles Should I Try?

What is Plaimont and which Bottles should I Try the three drinkers

What And Where Is Plaimont?

Plaimont is one of France’s most highly regarded cooperatives, occupying vineyards with rich terroir from Gascony to the Pyrénées foothills. It was founded back in the 1970s by Andre Dubosc, and since then it has changed the viticultural landscape of the region, reigniting its past as one of the countries’ most prized winemaking areas. It’s taken old, abandoned vines, revived them to excellence, and is now releasing plenty of great value wines… many of which can be found in your local supermarket. Cheers to that.

Why Is Plaimont Important?

What And Where Is Plaimont thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

Well, firstly they represent a staggering amount of wine in the South-West. 98% of the Saint Mont appellation, with red, white, and rosé all produced, as well as over half of the Madiran and AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh appellations, and a third of the Cotes-de-Gascogne.

Plaimont is all about preserving indigenous varietals and therefore maintaining their distinct Pyrénéan identity. They also, however, fully embrace the evolution of wine and an expansive range of grapes that are popular worldwide – your Cabernet Sauvignon and your Merlot.

They’ve come so far by taking an unparalleled interest and care for the terroir. The number of vines HEV certified (High Environment Value) has grown and grown, and they are well on their way to full certification. The same goes for organic wine, with a mission to reduce the use of chemicals in winemaking.

They also take pride in their ampelographic research (basically everything to do with identifying, naming, and classifying grape varieties). For decades, ampelographers have been painstakingly analysing Plaimont’s land, discovering a rich history and a total collection of 37 varieties, 12 of which are unique and previously unknown. The heritage is so significant, it even has its own ‘living library’. These varieties have been carefully monitored and developed, like the Manseng Noir, of which just a single vine was found. Now, it is grown across several hectares. Research is fundamental to what Plaimont do, and they have regular meetings with industry leading experts to keep ploughing forward and deliver more for this exciting region.

What Is Wine From Plaimont Like?

Why Is Plaimont Important thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

Saint Mont

This is Plaimont’s key appellation for its research, and home to the first Historical Monument vineyard. It covers an area along the Adour River equidistant between the Atlantic and the Pyrénées that has been home to wine since medieval times. It’s a diverse area from East to West, producing full-bodied elegant reds, fresh, mineral leaning whites, and lively rosés, with varied grapes such as Merlot, Petit Courbu, Tannat and Pinenc.

Cotes de Gascogne

Once upon a time, this area was dedicated to Armagnac brandy. That was until Plaimont discovered the potential of the French Colombard grape over in America, sparking a revival in the region as they set about optimising this varietal. As a result, it’s now grown here displaying diversity not normally associated with the grape, alongside Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Maseng – covering a wide spectrum of dry and sweet wines.

Pacherenc Du Vic-Bilh

This translates roughly to ‘wine from vines on stilts in the Old Land’ and was the area most in need of Plaimont’s help after being essentially abandoned in the 70s. Nowadays, vineyards stretch out over the rolling hills, with warm days and cold nights making late harvest possible… meaning tremendous sweetness. Age-old varieties dominate her, like Petit Mansang (floral and fruity), Gros Manseng (vigorous and lively), Petit Courbu (aromatic and lush), and Arrufiac (characterful and elegant).

Madiran

Nearest to the Pyrénées mountains, this is perhaps the most varied terroir. From high altitude Nappede Maucor with rounded sweetness, to gravelly sunrise facing slopes, to clay-limestone slopes bringing vibrancy, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet France and the indigenous Tannat thrive here.

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try?

ASDA Extra Special Côtes de Gascogne

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try_ ASDA Extra Special Côtes de Gascogne thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

Grown in the cooling Atlantic breeze, Colombard, Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Manseng combine for a beautifully crisp and dry wine, with bright lemon citrus and fantastically fresh fruits.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here:
£7.25

Pujalet Cotes de Gascogne

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try_ Pujalet Cotes de Gascogne thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

This is a great party wine with moreish zest and crispness from Colombard and Ugni Blanc grapes. Exotic grapefruit and guava keep each other company, and there’s surprising flavour considering the low ABV.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10.5%
Find here: £7.49 

Elia Côtes De Gascogne

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try_ Elia Côtes De Gascogne thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

Again, bringing the aromatic Colombard grape to life, this vibrant white is reminiscent of great New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, with tropical hints supporting refreshing orchard fruits and citrus, and a floral grassy note. Wonderfully light and fresh.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £8.50 (currently £7 on offer)

Plaimont Côtes De Gascogne Colombard Sauvignon Blanc

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try_ Plaimont Côtes De Gascogne Colombard Sauvignon Blanc  thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

We featured this in our Supermarket Wine Bargains Sainsbury’s guide in October, because it packs a hell of a punch for the price. The sunny slopes of Côtes De Gascogne deliver a perfect easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc with plenty of surgical acidity to cut through mid-week meals. The Colombard softens it nicely, resulting in a vividly refreshing wine indeed.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £9

Plaimont Saint Mont Grande Cuvee

Which Plaimont Wines Should I Try_ Plaimont Saint Mont Grande Cuvee thethreedrinkers.com the three drinkers

The end product of the historically rare grapes of the Sant Mont vineyard, Gros Manseng, Petit Courbu and Arrufiac are selected from some of the cooler vineyards to make an invitingly floral wine, opening up with a citrussy, stone-fruit palate. Tangy acidity races through it, as does subtle creaminess from 5 months ageing on lees.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £9.50

If you want to learn more about French wine in general, then we’ve put together a Beginner’s Guide!

Celebrate The New Year in Style With These Champagne Cocktails

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

Yes, there are alternatives, and yes, it’s more expensive than other sparklers, but Champagne will always be the ultimate glass of elegance and celebration. It’s a classic way to ring in the new year, and such a big day requires the special feeling that cocktails bring to an occasion, so why not combine the two?

Champagne is perfect for keeping cocktails light and refreshing, as well as bringing a bit of fruity crispness to robust mixes. Start the year as you mean to go on with these memorable Champagne cocktails.

Kir Royale

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

This wonderful cocktail goes back to 19th century France and makes full use of the gorgeous blackcurrant liqueur Crème de Cassis. Elegant bubbly bite with silky, juicy sweetness – simple but delicious. Also, it pairs perfectly with berry and meringue desserts like Eton mess and pavlova if you’re having a New Year feast.

Ingredients
1 tbsp crème de cassis
Champagne
Blackberry or raspberry (optional garnish)

 Method
Crème de cassis first, poured into a Champagne flute before topping up with Champagne. A blackberry or raspberry tops it up nicely, and if it’s frozen you can use it to chill the cocktail too.

Black Velvet

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

These two might seem like a slightly odd match at first, but it’s actually a cocktail steeped in history. As the legend has it, a London steward was inspired to come up with it following the nation’s mourning of Prince Albert in 1861. The crisp Champagne takes the robust heaviness away from the Guiness, and you get a fruit dipped in dark chocolate kind of profile. Rich, lively and interesting to try if you never have before.

Ingredients
100ml Guinness
100ml Champagne

Method
Two ingredients with equal measures, how’s that for simple? Go for Champagne first, and then pour the Guinness in over the back of a spoon for some lovely layering.

Champagne Bowler

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

This wine heavy classic dates back to the 30s and brings a splash of summer to the New Year celebrations. The foundation of three grapes compliments the fresh, natural flavour of those sweet strawberries, and the result feels clean and crisp, with a hint of richness.

Ingredients
3 chopped strawberries
20ml brandy (preferably Cognac)
30ml dry white wine (like Chardonnay)
60ml champagne
Dash of syrup (optional)

Method
Muddle your chopped strawberries in a shaker, and add the brandy, white wine, a little ice and shake well. Unusually, we don’t recommend straining here because we want all that strawberry goodness and flavour, so just top up with Champagne and toast to the warmer weather ahead.

Poinsettia

This is essentially a cranberry mimosa, and it’s delicious. The ruby red hue and rosemary garnish keep the festive theme, and the flavours are citrusy, tart and refreshing. The orange liqueur gives a little weight and sweetness, the cranberry juice gives that bittersweet fruit, and of course, the fizz is there with its fine bubbles to lighten the mood. It just works so well.

Ingredients
25ml orange liqueur
50ml cranberry juice
75ml champagne
1 rosemary sprig to garnish

Method
Chill everything beforehand for this one, it makes all the difference. Pour the orange liqueur and cranberry juice into a chilled glass, and very gently top up with champagne before finishing with a rosemary sprig for aesthetics and faint whiff of herby goodness.

Classic Champagne Cocktail

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

This old-school classic is what started it all, and though it’s as simple as a cocktail can get, it is definitely worth including if you’re looking to retain all the star power and complexity of your champagne. The Angostura-soaked sugar cube gives a little sweet spice to liven up a straight serving of fizz.

 Ingredients
1 sugar cube
4 dashes of Angostura bitters
200ml champagne
Lemon or orange slice to garnish

Method
Drop the sugar into the bottom of the flute and soak for a few minutes with Angostura. Then top up with Champagne and finally, garnish with a little citrus. Simple excellence.

Champagne Punch

celebrate the new year in style with these champagne cocktails the three drinkers

Something slightly different here, because if you’re seeing in the New Year with a big group, then a punch is always handy. It’s quite an extravagant way to use champagne, but if you can’t do that at New Years then when can you? Like any punch, there aren’t many hard and fast rules, but we think this run down works a treat. The fresh lemon, lime, and citrus cut through nicely, there’s plenty of crisp wine, fruity sweetness and gentle warmth from Cognac and ginger.

 Ingredients (for 8)
1 bottle of champagne
250ml grapefruit juice
200ml ginger ale
200ml dry white wine
100ml orange liqueur
100ml pineapple juice
1 sliced lemon
1 sliced lime
1 sliced orange
40ml Cognac/brandy
70ml simple syrup
Handful of mint leaves
Handful of cranberries
Ice

Method
The only important thing here is to leave the Champagne till last. We want to retain all those bubbles, so combine everything else and chill for an hour (at least). When guests arrive, pour in the bubbly, and make sure it’s drunk first so the effervescence hasn’t faded.

If these have caught your eye, then you just need one thing... that all important Champagne. Let’s be honest, if you’re mixing it then there’s no need to splash out on a super expensive bottle, and there are plenty of fantastic Champagnes at in the mid-range area that are perfect for cocktails. Take a look here!

Umeshu: Your ABC Guide to Japan’s ‘other’ drinks jewel

What is Umeshu Best Umeshu Choya Helena Nicklin Recommends

When we think of alcoholic, Japanese drinks, sake often takes centre stage but there's another, less obvious drinky gem that deserves the spotlight: Umeshu. This sweet elixir, made from plump ume fruit, sugar and alcohol, has been a beloved part of Japanese culture for centuries. Here’s a simple, beginner’s guide to this traditional, Eastern tipple with some styles you should try from the iconic Japanese Umeshu producer, Choya.

What is ume fruit?

Ume is often translated as a Japanese plum or Japanese apricot. It's actually neither but it is very closely related to both. Ume fruit is typically small, round and green when unripe, turning yellow or reddish as it ripens. It has a unique flavour that combines tartness, sweetness and a slight floral aroma, making it a distinctive and much-loved ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

Umeshu, also known as plum wine, is the name of the alcoholic drink made with ume; a tradition that dates back to the Nara period (710-794 AD), when ume trees were first introduced to the country.

How is Umeshu made?

The basic process of making Umeshu is relatively simple, but it does require patience: Ume fruit is steeped in alcohol and sugar before being aged. Over time, the flavours meld and mature, creating a sweet, fruity and slightly tart alcoholic drink.

The Ume fruit is pricked, then layered with sugar in a large glass jar or bottle before alcohol is poured in, covering the ume fruit completely. The alcohol (often shochu but sake and brandy can be used) extracts flavours from the fruit but also acts as a preservative. The container is then sealed tightly to ensure no exposure to air, before being left to age for several months to a year or more, depending on the desired flavour profile and complexity. When the Umeshu has reached the desired flavour and colour, it is strained to remove the fruit solids. The liquid is then bottled and stored for further ageing or immediate consumption.

About Choya

Nestled in the heart of Japan's Osaka Prefecture and established in 1914, Choya has emerged as a revered and global leader in the world of Umeshu plum liqueurs. Their extensive range caters to a spectrum of palates, from the classic to the innovative and their dedication to sustainability, along with their emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail, have earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of Japan's finest Umeshu producers.

Styles of Choya Umeshu to try

Umeshu is far from a one-size-fits-all drink. There are various styles and flavours to explore, each with a unique character, Sip these straight, over ice or in simple cocktails. It’s a whole new drinks world to explore!

Classic Umeshu

Best Classic Umeshu Choya Helena Nicklin Recommends The Three Drinkers

Try: Choya Single Year Umeshu, £19.99 from Drinksupermarket.com

A traditional style of Umeshu made from a blend of three batches and aged for up to two years. Sweet, very tart but beautifully balanced with natural plum essence. Great alone or to add zing to cocktails.

Honey Umeshu

Best Honey Umeshu Choya Royal Honey Helena Nicklin Recommends

Try: The Choya Royal Honey Umeshu, £34.99 from Master of Malt

For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, honey Umeshu is a delightful choice. It combines the natural sweetness of honey with the fruity notes of ume, resulting in a balanced and luscious flavour.

Shiso Umeshu

Best Shiso Umeshu Choya Extra Shiso Helena Nicklin Recommends

Try: The Choya Extra Shiso, £27.99 from Amazon

Shiso leaves, also known as perilla leaves, add an earthy, herby and slightly spicy kick to Umeshu, which complements the sweet and tangy ume fruit beautifully.

Extra Years Umeshu

Best Extra Years Umeshu Choya  Helena Nicklin Recommends

The Choya Extra Years Umeshu, £26.99 from  Drinksupermarket.com

Complex and sweet, this Umeshu is matured for longer than usual, giving it complex aromas and flavours of plum, dried apricot and gentle spice.

Simple Umeshu Cocktails

Umeshu makes a fantastic base for highballs and more complex cocktails. Try an Umehsu spritz with a splash of soda water or replace the whisky with the Choya honey Umeshu for a delicious hot toddy with cinnamon and lemon juice. It could even make a great old fashioned or Martini. Here’s a tried and tested recipe:

Choya Umeshu Martini Helena Nicklin Recommends

The Choya Martini

Ingredients

15ml Choya Extra Years Umeshu
45ml London Dry Gin
30ml Lillet Rose or Blanc
1 dash bitters
1 dash absinthe

Method

Chill a martini glass or coup. Combine all the wet ingredients into a mixing glass over ice and stir for thirty seconds. Strain and pour into the Martini glass then serve. Garnish with a cherry.

Kanpai!