7 Bottles of Irish Whiskey You Need in Your Glass

The journey Irish Whiskey has been on is quite incredible. From the 19th century golden age where it was deemed the finest and most popular spirit on the planet, to producing just 1% of the world’s supply only a hundred years or so later.

Fortunately, it’s sprung out of the doldrums in style, and decades of investment and innovation has seen distilleries bloom all over. Irish Whiskey is back where it belongs, delivering the quintessential fruity lightness it’s known for, as well as delightful wine-finishes and wafts of smoke.

So, if you’re celebrating St. Patrick's Day on March 17th or just want to expand your emerald isle collections with some gems, these are seven bottles you need in your glass.

Jatt Life Blended Irish Whiskey

From the same folks at Jatt Life Vodka comes this blended Irish whiskey. Aged in virgin oak and sherry casks, this is very characterful with luscious, rich dried fruits intertwining with woody spice. It’s a classic Irish whiskey expression with soft fruitiness, but wonderfully smooth and with impressive longevity too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £27.27

Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition Whiskey

From the best-selling Irish whiskey producer in the world, Jameson’s stout edition has a seductive bourbon nose with a little creamy chocolate dressing the fresher notes. These continue in the mouth with a touch of coffee, as the succulent viscosity becomes noticeable. Warm spices feature too, most prominently cinnamon. The old whiskey barrels had previously been used to age stout from Cork’s Franciscan Well brewery, and the results are quite spectacular – especially for the price.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £28.95

Proclamation Blended Irish Whiskey

A glass of this is a true celebration of Ireland’s independence, from the label to the 40.7% ABV, a nod to the 7 signatures signing the famous 1916 document. But what about the liquid itself? Full-bodied and silky smooth, it’s matured in ex-Bourbon casks before a subtle sherry finish. The results combine majestically with fruity caramel, full-bodied brioche notes and bitter toasted coffee for balance. Delicious.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40.7%
Find here: £28.88

Tyrconnell Irish Whiskey

Top notch single malt now with the legendary Tyrconnell. The labels had a stylish rebrand, and the alcohol has been bumped up from 40% too. It’s softly integrated however with no harshness whatsoever. It’s fruity and light, but unlike most Irish whiskeys brings citrus over sweetness. The rich vanilla fudge lingers forever it seems, beyond even the oaky spice.  A benchmark.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £33.99 (usually more!)

Sliabh Liag The Legendary Dark Silkie Irish Whiskey

As captivating as the legendary silkies of Ireland themselves, we love this Donegal distillery. Their lighter expression is beautiful, but this smoky number deserves some serious love too. Peat was somewhat lost from Irish whiskey for a long time, but this harks back to the golden age with triple-distilled peated malt aged in sherry casks, before joining bourbon-matured and virgin oak-matured whiskies. The result is so harmonious, with those rich fruits still coming through, as well as salted chocolate and mellow wafts of smoke balancing out perfectly.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £35.37 (usually more!)

Kinahan’s The Kasc Project Whiskey

Something different here. The bottle may say Irish Whiskey, but The Kasc Project is actually something of a globe trotter. Delving into the world of hybrid casks, Portuguese, American, French, Hungarian oak, and chestnut, yes that’s five different woods, are used for ageing. All combined in one barrel, it’s no surprise that the alluring honey colouring reveals so much flavour. Expect oaky treacle on the nose, stewed apples and sultanas, nutty vanilla and peppery warmth on the palate, and a dry finish with liquorice. It's really interesting and throws up Bourbon and Cognac comparisons.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £38.75

Bushmills 16 Year Old Whiskey

More expensive than our other whiskies, Bushmills’ 16 year old expression more than lives up to its price tag. It begins life in Bourbon casks, continues along to sherry before a final stint in Port, expanding its breadth of delicious flavour with each step. Think honey and stone fruits on the nose, spilling over into a summery palate of lofty tropical flavours, silky honey, and rich dried fruits. The oily viscosity coats your mouth wonderfully as the rising mocha notes and nutty spice lingers on and on. So much to explore.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £89.81

If you want to learn more about the fascinating world of Irish whiskey, then let us remind you of The Three Drinkers in Ireland, when we explored the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

Where is Rum Made?

The Pirate’s Drink, the Navy Neater, Nelson’s blood, kill-devil, demon water… rum goes by many names and is steeped in history. Originally using distilling sugarcane for medicinal reasons, ancient Indians were the first to begin the process.

In one form or another, rum has been made pretty much all over the world, but most popularly it found its home in the Caribbean islands. That’s only part of the story however, so let’s dive a little deeper into this legendary spirit.

What is Rum?

First things first, to work out where rum is made, we need to nail down what it actually is. In this modern world of innovative, diversified drinks, rum is more varied than it once was, but there are still boundaries.

Rum is a spirit made by fermenting and distilling molasses and/or sugarcane to produce a clear spirit that is sometimes aged further. Most countries require this liquid to be a minimum of 40% ABV to be classified as rum too, and there are even regulations (such as in the US) that state the taste, aroma and characteristic of the spirit must be ‘generally attributed to rum’.

Sugarcane has been distilled in India since 350BC, but it was the perfect conditions of the Caribbean that rum would become synonymous with, beginning on the sugarcane plantations in the 17th century. These days, it’s enjoyed worldwide with over 80 countries producing it.

Which Country Produces the Most Rum?

Working out which country produces the most rum is difficult because the export figures are often a result of import figures. For example, Italy is the world’s biggest exporter of rum, but also the biggest importer… so it’s getting it in to sell on essentially.

If we’re talking about making the most rum however, it’s undoubtedly the Caribbean. Islands like Barbados, Martinique, Cuba, Jamaica, Antigua and Trinidad, Puerto Rico and Tobago are where rum is made.

Nearby, South and Central American countries like Guyana, Belize, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama and Venezuela also produce large volumes.

Further afield, the Philippines is the biggest Asian producer, closely followed by India, and Australia also has a newer but flourishing rum industry.

Most rums you find will have one of these countries on the label, but as we said, if it’s got sugarcane, it can be made there!

How Do Rums from Different Countries Differ?

In the Caribbean, the different islands or production areas deliver very unique styles. Categorising them is no easy task, however. Because colonisation is so intertwined with the history of rum, you can find connections between the languages spoken and the rum style.

For example, English-speaking areas are associated with bigger, darker rums and heavy molasses, French-speaking with expressive, ‘agricultural’ rums, and Spanish speaking with smooth character. Let’s go through a few of the most iconic rum producing nations and the rum they make.

Barbados

Rum’s birthplace, Barbados is home to the world’s oldest rum distillery, Mount Gay. Barbados produces some of the highest quality bottles, both light and dark, specialising in traditional profiles. English colonised islands were first to push rum production, so these early styles in Barbados, Jamaica and others are synonymous with full-bodied pot-still rums.

Jamaica

With some of the biggest names in rum like Appelton and Hampden, Jamaica produces top-notch traditional rum, allowing the molasses to naturally ferment with preserved yeast and uncommon distillation techniques. The result? Boozier rum and plenty of ripe fruit notes.

Philippines

Utilising their booming sugar industry for over two centuries, the Philippines produces tonnes of white and golden rums, most famously Tanduay. Ex-bourbon American oak is a favourite in the Philippines, allowing for woody and spicy notes to pair up with the natural fruity, exotic characteristics.

Australia

A modern pioneer, Australia produces fine spiced and white rums. Since the rum revolution against William Bligh in 1808, sugarcane abundant regions like Queensland and New South Wales have been focusing on traditional rum styles. Previously known for intense, rough-around-the-edges rums, the industry has refined over the years to produce real quality.

Cuba

Another distinctive rum nation, Cubans have developed their Spanish-style rums – drier, clear and punchy. The iconic white rums (think Havana Club) are cocktail favourites. Softer and gentler than most, they gain flavour from barrel ageing rather than the neutral column still production… before the charcoal filtering removes the colour. Interestingly, the Spanish wanted to protect their brandy when they owned Cuba, so rum production was actually banned for many years.

Martinique

Nations previously colonised by the French produce ‘rhum agricole’ which uses fresh sugarcane juice instead of molasses, preserving the young character. Spiced rum is massive here, known locally as ‘shrubb’, but light rums are made too.

If all that talk of rum has got you a thirst on, then check out our latest rum recommendations here!

If you’ve got other drinks related questions floating around your head, then we’re here to answer them. For example, ever wondered, ‘Is there a correct way to drink whisky?’ Or ‘What can I mix with a gin instead of tonic?’

Meet Our DRINKLUSIVE Mentees!

We are absolutely delighted to introduce you to our first ever DRINKLUSIVE mentees. Over the next six months, they will embark on the first Inclusivity Mentorship of its kind in the drinks space, with the aim of giving people from all walks of life the chance to make the drinks industry their home.

Our fabulous mentees below will be learning from our industry leading DRINKLUSIVE mentors, working towards their WSET qualifications, building their personal brand and network, getting access to work experience, and creating written and social content not only here at The Three Drinkers, but also for The Independent and JancisRobinson.com.

We can’t wait for you to see more from DRINKLUSIVE and the mentees soon, but for now, here they are!

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Fowwaz Ansari

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Fowwaz was born in the UK but grew up in Pakistan before returning to attend university when he was 18. It was during his studies that he grew an affinity for bartending whilst working in various pubs and bars part-time. Upon graduation, rather than going down the graduate jobs route, he opted for a career behind the stick. Since doing so, his passion for food and drinks has only increased in breadth and depth. Having sharpened his senses for the past 8 years in the industry, he is currently taking on the challenge of being head bartender at one of Edinburgh's most exciting up-and-coming independent bars; Bittersweet Leith. When coming up with signature drinks for the bar, Fowwaz very often turns his head to his heritage and the culinary culture that surrounds it for inspiration and you can often find him nose-deep in a book looking to expand his knowledge.

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Latoya Austin

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Latoya grew up as a cocktail lover due to her upbringing where Caribbean cocktails such as rum punch, sorrel and rum were produced for special occasions. She was introduced to the world of wine through her studies of French at school and university and her interest grew further through her travels leading her to become a travel writer alongside her regular day job. When journeying around the world, she can often be found sampling local traditional drinks such as soju in South Korea. Latoya is particularly interested in aspects of wine tourism and during the lockdowns she took the opportunity to discover more of the local English vineyards within the burgeoning English wine scene. She’d love to learn more about the lesser-known wine regions, such as Uruguay, Bulgaria and more.

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Miley Kendrick

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Miley fell head over heels for bartending the second she stepped behind a bar at the young age of eighteen, where she underwent about the most intense training possible from old school cocktail bar, Be at One. Slinging drinks is a natural fit for a musician and frontwoman, providing a stage to be herself, create, and be playful. Since making the move to independent bars in 2021, Miley has won two UK cocktail competitions and competed on a global scale in Sweden and Mexico. Everything Miley does is a means to creating the most whimsical life possible for herself; her drive to fill her world with art fuels her passion for writing, crafting cocktails, or playing guitar.

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Roberta Jerram

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Robbie’s love for botanicals and mixology was inherited from the female drink-makers in her family, her Mum and Nans. She began her journey in drinks working behind the bar in local Hampshire pubs, before moving on to moonlighting as a bartender at a London hotel during her student years. Her passion for gin truly blossomed in her 20s, when she landed her dream job as a flight attendant serving G&Ts to British holidaymakers at 30,000 feet. Now in her 50s, her love for gin and botanicals has remained constant and she enjoys nothing more than sharing her knowledge and gin cocktails with her gin pals, family and friends. You can find Robbie on social media @thefairyginmother and very soon on her Gin App which will be launching in March 2024 @ginpodapp.

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Will Wong

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Previously a management consultant and theatre director, Will is now a professional photographer who began shooting wine and glassware seriously during the Covid lockdowns. If wine is liquid geography or poetry, the ultimate litmus tests for him are whether the beverage takes you down memory lane, or better still, transports you to a time and place you have never been. His goal is to tell compelling stories about the people and places behind the labels. Being a certified Climate Aware Photographer, he enjoys researching how vines and winemaking are adapting to and evolving with our changing climate. When he’s not enjoying press tastings, print magazines or Formula One, you will find Will sharing his experiences of food & wine/spirits pairings on his Instagram account @fino_vino_malts.

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Zach Sapato

DRINKLUSIVE MENTEE

Zach Sapato is a bartender and intentional experience designer from the US, who now calls Scotland home. He is a US & UK National Swizzle Cocktail Champion - as well as holding four other US & UK national cocktail titles. In recognition of his efforts founding HospoHang - a hospitality community collective based in Glasgow - Zach was given the Hospitality Hero award from the Scottish Licensed Trade. He has done educational seminars at international conferences on Intentional Experience Design and Hospitality Community Building. He really likes cool pals, genuine hospitality, charity shops, tater tots, and blue drinks. You'll probably like him.

If you are interested in becoming a DRINKLUSIVE mentor then click here to find out more.

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Sainsbury’s February/March 2024

We’re back with the latest Supermarket Wine Bargains, hunting down the latest and greatest must try wines discounted this month. These wonderful reds, whites and rosés are all currently on offer at Sainsbury’s (until the 10th March), and nearly every bottle is under £10. They really are incredible value for money this month, so let’s dive in.

*UPDATED: 21/02/2024*

Sainsbury’s Red Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Santodeno Sangiovese Appassimento

This is an Emilia-Romagna Sangiovese from Tenuta Santonedo that is one of the best value reds across all UK supermarkets. Staggeringly easy to drink, the grapes are hand-picked and slow-dried for seductive, ripe richness. Jammy blackberry and cherry come to the fore, with tasty vanilla and enough acidity cutting through. Every sip is super smooth and there really is no better bottle for Italian dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Greasy Fingers Luscious Red

Greasy Fingers’ medium-bodied blend of Grenache and Shiraz is a tremendous pickup. Like their big and buttery Chardonnay, it’s made to sing with yummy, greasy food, but there’s a lot more to it. The mouthfeel is super silky and the balance between the Shiraz’s rich fruits and the Grenache’s fruity sweetness is pinpoint perfect. It’s so moreish and easy to love that we fail to see how it couldn’t be a crowdpleaser.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Journeys End Bluegum Merlot

Over to Stellenbosch now for this ruby red Merlot. The richness of flavour is noticeable straight away, delivering full blackberry and plum. But this is a really big Merlot so there’s so much more – oaky, earthy, almost smoky wafts and subtle graphite notes provide an intoxicating complexity. 14% but very drinkable and interesting,

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £12)

PepperBox Shiraz

Fans of Aussie Shiraz, this is your stop. The nose is instantly captivating with a little liquorice, eucalyptus and of course, luscious dark fruits. The soft viscosity is lovely, as plums, blackcurrants and red cherries reveal themselves amongst the gently spicy depths. That spice comes from noticeable pepper that stands out. We love its indulgence, and think it would be perfect with Sunday Lamb.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Sainsbury’s White Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc

One of the best textbook Marlborough Sauvignon’s in Sainsbury’s. The gooseberry nose, the tropical pineapple, and grapefruit tang, it’s all so elegant and crisp. The acidity is razor sharp, but there’s herbaceous nettle notes swirling around too and a well-roundedness to the citrus.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10.50)

Amandla Our Future Sauvignon Blanc

We’ve praised Amandla tonnes before, because not only are they brightening up our shelves with great wine, they’re also an inspiring all black operation with vino star Praisy Dlamini at the hem. This is their zesty Sauvignon that’s full of sunshine – think ripe and tropical notes of pineapple, passion fruit and bright citrus. Dry and with a tip-top sharpness for food too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury's Verdeca Puglia IGT No 26

This is quite a new addition to the Sainsbury’s Discovery collection but has stood out to us and is well worth trying. It’s 100% Verdeca grape from Puglia, which you may never have tried before. Expect citrus with a flash of honey on the nose, leading into a eyebrow raising-ly clean palate of crisp minerality. The citrus that’s there is so fresh, and a little peach and florality adds depth. You just need to look at the label to know when to drink this – it works a treat with fish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £6.50 (usually £8.50)

Atlantique Vinho Verde

A lovely Portuguese blend from the family-owned Casa Santos Lima, the grapes in the Minho are cooled by the Atlantic for wines with great freshness and aroma. The profile is that of a young white, with super crisp acidity and fresh fruits, most notably lemon, lime and apple.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Discounts February/March 2024

Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Île-de-Beauté Rosé

This was on offer back in January, so we’re happy to see it back below a tenna (even if it is easily worth more). Niellucciu, Sciaccarellu, Grenache, Vermentinu and Syrah come together to make quite a mouthful, in more ways than one. Hailing from Corsica, it’s very much a dryer Rosé. A gentle bouquet welcomes the nose and the ripe berries and currants fill out the flavours. Stone fruits pop up before an undertone of pink peppery warmth on the finish. This is one of those Rosés that will win over white and red drinkers.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Freixenet Italian Still Rose

This bottle is also on discount for the same price at Morrisons, so there really is no better time to try it. We’ve all seen the signature bottle, but the wine inside is underrated by many. A blend of Italian Corvina and Garganega, every sip has a seductively soft feel and that’s before the red flood of strawberry and cranberry. Grapefruit brings some bitter balance, and overall it’s just a well put together fruit-forward, fresh Rosé.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Sainsbury’s Red Wine Discounts February 2024

Barossa Ink Shiraz

This is fantastically deep Shiraz from the Barossa Valley. It uses grapes from all over the region, delivering intense opulence. Think mocha notes, blackberries, and plums. It has a great weight to it, and is screaming out to be drank alongside hearty meats.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Terre di Faiano Nero di Troia Organic Wine

Terre di Faiano make some top notch organic wines, and their Nero di Troia is wonderfully fruity and smooth. It really delivers on a fresh feel before delving richer with plums and blackberries and rounding off with oaky vanilla. Must buy at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury's Valpolicella Ripasso, Taste the Difference

This is fantastic value for money, it really is. A four-grape blend of mainly Corvina, they macerate with dried grape skins for added depth and a velvety texture that’s to die for. Vibrant berries meet rich darker fruits and a touch of spice. It isn’t too heavy despite all of that, which is why it’s so well made.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £12 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

Sainsbury’s White Wine Discounts February 2024

Sainsbury's Riverblock Marlborough Sauvignon, Taste the Difference

If easy-drinking Marlborough Sauvignon is your thing, then this is for you. The freshness is immediately impressive, and the zesty tropical hints are delicious. It can cleanse the palate but also has enough body to stand up to heartier dishes too. You’ll need 3 for the big discount, but if Marlborough Sauvignon is your go to then this won’t let you down.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £10.50 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

Sainsbury's Jurançon Sec, Taste the Difference

Jurançon sits in the sun-drenched foothills of the Pyrenees and is known for indigenous grapes, like the Gros and Petit Manseng in this expression. Usually, you’ll find these make sweeter wines, and though this brings a little of that, it’s very pleasantly dry, zesty, and refreshing – think tangerine and melon. Unique and well worth a go.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

The Ned Pinot Grigio

This is a Waihopai Valley Pinot Grigio that stands out from the usual style. Behind the seductive salmon blush colouring is an expression brimming with stone fruits. It’s rich, and full-bodied, but the twist that comes is with the lingering minerality that we love. It’s the perfect time to try whilst it’s under a tenner.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

19 Crimes Chard

We’ve featured 19 Crimes a few times because of their consistent quality, and their Chardonnay is yet another wine that delivers. Oak ageing means the melon and stone fruits come through with richness, but the stand out trait is the buttery, full body that makes this a must try at this price point.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Most Wanted Regions Sauvignon Blanc Rueda

This is a benchmark Spanish Sauvignon Blanc from Castilla y Léon. The nose is aromatic with green apples and grass, the palate is brimming with gooseberry and a little kiwi, before a pleasant kick of citrus acidity on the finish. Nom!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Discounts February 2024

Silver Moki Sauvignon Blush

If you’ve never taken to rosé then we urge you to give this a go, particularly if you’re not keen on the sweetness. This delivers much of the crisp Sauvignon Blanc and slicing citric acidity. Indulgent peach and strawberry offset this harmoniously, but they’re subtler than most rosé expressions. It’s the sophistication and elegance that blows our minds with this bottle though. Worth double the price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Madame F Rosé Wine

There is so much to applaud with this rosé. First, of course, the snazzy frog. Second, its collaboration with a charity trying to create the first LGBTQ+ museum. And thirdly, the liquid. The Grenache and Shiraz combination brings vibrant crowd-pleasing red berries, and there’s enough citrus acidity to make it food-friendly too. Try a glass with seafood paella.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

If you shop elsewhere, then take a look at our up to date Supermarket Wine Bargains here.

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Morrisons February/March 2024

We’re back with must try deals in Supermarket Wine Bargains, and Morrisons have delivered some truly delicious discounts on wine for the month ahead. We’ve got four reds and whites a piece, and two crisp Rosés ahead of us, and all for under a tenner. And remember, if you usually shop elsewhere, then we’ve probably got an up-to-date discount list for there too so take a look on the site. Right, let’s dive into the good stuff. Oh, and you’ve got till the 10th March to get stuck into these gems so be quick!

*UPDATED: 20/02/2024*

Morrisons Red Wine Discounts February/March 2024

The Wanderer Malbec

As beautiful as its Day of the Dead design, this San Juan Malbec is a real smooth operator. The grapes that go into this wine are from vineyards once abandoned but now thriving. Picked late, they deliver so many luscious ripe notes with intoxicating intensity to them. Think silky black fruits and woody spice. More generous than expected.

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

Barossa Ink Shiraz

This is a fantastic supermarket pickup. It makes great use of grapes from across the whole Barossa area to get the most intense and sophisticated flavours. Oak ageing delivers mocha notes and brooding, rich blackberries and plums. One thing we’ve noticed with this is that giving it an hour to breathe really lets it sing that extra note. Serve with steak or hearty meats and enjoy.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £11)

Roodeberg Black

Morrisons had this South African red on offer a while ago, and we’re glad to see it back under a tenna… even though it’s worth more. It’s a red blend starring mostly Pinotage, a grape that’s undergone a great revival in South Africa. Packed with dark fruits, there’s also a slight char to the oak that works a treat. Rich with good structure, this is an easy-drinking gem perfect for meat dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £12.50)

Lindemans Gentlemans Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

Henry J Lindeman moved from England to the Hunter Valley in Australia in 1843, when he opened his own winery to bring refined wines to the colony. Purple hues amongst a bright red colour and violet aromas welcome you in, before a black fruit flood. Chocolate and oak round things off nicely, and overall, this has the feel of a much more expensive Napa wine.  

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

Morrisons Rosé Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Freixenet Italian Rosé

We’ve all had our eyes caught by this signature bottle, but if you haven’t tried it then know that the contents actually represent cracking value. An Italian Corvina and Garganega blend, it’s soft and seductive on the nose before unveiling refreshing cranberry, strawberry and grapefruit notes. Super fresh, super fruity and balanced to a tee.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Crocodile Diamante Rose

Pale, fresh and crisp, this yummy number brings the signature Southern Rhone Valley style. Rather than intense in your face flavours, its red fruit notes are delicate and clean. Don’t go thinking it’s boring though, far from it, with fresh floral tones adding depth and great acidic zip making it fabulously food-friendly. Nice bottle too!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8 (usually £12)

Morrisons White Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Greasy Fingers Chardonnay Big and Buttery

A relatively new kid on the block, everything you need to know about this is on the label. Well, that’s not true actually because often the description doesn’t manifest, but here it most definitely does. It begins with a temptation of oaky vanilla and a green rush of pear and apple. Then, the bold, distinctly buttery flavour hits, transporting this Aussie Chard to something closer to Cali styles. Creamy, indulgent and made to pair with delicious, greasy food.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc

If you’re after superb Sauvignon in the classic Marlborough style, then this bottle is perfect – simplicity and excellence. A crisp, zesty nose begins, unfolding to reveal fresh tropical fruits like pineapple, subtler green apple, vivid citrus, and a weighty mineral touch. Reliably dreamy with many food dishes, expertly rounded and with decent depth to dive into.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £11)

Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc White Wine

This is another Sauvignon Blanc unashamedly fully embracing the signature Marlborough profile. Sunstones absorb sunshine during the day, so that during the colder nights, the vines get to stay warmer – neat. The nose? Gooseberry with some florality? The palate? Acidic tropical fruit with herbaceous depth. The finish? Steely minerality. Subtle, surprisingly complex, and delicious.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (usually £10)

Kendermanns Riesling Spätlese

Under £6 for this? Yes please. Spätlese means this Riesling is a late harvest resulting in increased residual sweetness. However, as is Riesling’s genius, it retains crisp acidity making it the ultimate food-friendly champ. The freshness in this bottle is to be admired, particularly when served chilled. It’s a fruity gem that does its job so well, and is one of the best value bottles in any supermarket.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £5.75 (usually £7.50)

*UPDATED: 01/02/2024*

Morrisons Red Wine Discounts February 2024

Greasy Fingers Luscious Red

Luscious Red is exactly that and has become a regular on supermarket shelves. It’s a lovely blend of Aussie Shiraz (rich fruits) and Grenache (fantastic sweetness) delivered super smoothly. A real crowd pleaser.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Diablo Black Cabernet Sauvignon

From the Maule Valley in Chile comes this incredible Cab Sav. A combo of French and American oak maturation has carved out intense and inky depths. Think darker woods, vanilla, rich fruits, and a hint of tobacco. It’s so smooth too. A deal with the Devil has never tasted this good.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £11)

Wise Wolf Cabernet Sauvignon

This is probably the best Languedoc-Roussillon red in UK supermarkets. The bottle stands out from the off because not only is it more akin to a premium olive oil, its also 95% recycled. Inside, it’s big and ripe with great viscosity, blackberries, blackcurrant and plum. The oak comes through pleasantly too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £12)

Morrisons The Best Primitivo

Easy-drinking Primitivo here that will put smiles on faces if you’re into sweeter reds. Dried fruits and ripe dark fruits fill out a lush palate that feels pure and soft. There’s a gorgeous tang that balances everything out too.

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

Morrisons Rosé Wine Discounts February 2024

Castillo D'ibiza Rose

We love a standout bottle, and this curvaceous Rosé is very easy on the eye, with its inviting, salmon pink hue. It’s a Spanish creation from Pernod Ricard, using Garnacha and Tempranillo grapes to deliver a tarter, more refreshing Rosé than you might be used to. Citrus sing and minerality co-star and perhaps even steal the scenes from the strawberry, making it a wonderful food-friendly companion.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £10 (usually £12.50)

Mirabeau Forever Summer Rose

Maison Mirabeau are one of our favourite names in Rosé with fantastic output from their sun-kissed vineyards. The summery nose is enough to transport you to, well, summer, with seductive nectarine and rose. The first sip reveals a crisp and dry red berry symphony with refreshing acidity and for under £10, it’s hard to beat.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Morrisons White Wine Discounts February 2024

Workshop Mastercraft Sauvignon Blanc

This Marlborough Sauvignon punches well and truly above its price point with £3 off, and it’s so easy to love that you won’t be disappointed. You can expect a rounded profile with quite intense gooseberries and peach, more tropical passion fruit and some delightful herbaceous grassy hints too. Zest, sweetness, peppery spice – good stuff.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £11.50)

Freixenet Pinot Grigio

You’ll probably recognise the glamorous Freixenet bottle by now, but if you’ve never tried it then know that it’s substance as well as style. From the idyllic Garda vineyards comes this drop of Italian suns hine, harmonising crisp, bright citrus as well as subtle florality and light orchard fruits.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Kendermanns Riesling Spätlese

This Spatlese Riesling delivers that residual late harvest sweetness, and of course the crisp acidity. It feels exceptionally fresh, which is part of the reason we picked it to pair with Chinese food earlier in the week. It’s so food friendly and surprisingly elegant. Serve chilled and it’s a winner.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £5.75 (usually £7.50)

19 Crimes Chardonnay

The appearance of The Uprising and The Banished on previous Supermarket Wine Bargains is a testament to the quality of 19 Crimes, and that’s no different with Chard. Stone fruits, melon and creamy oak come through opulently and with delicious richness. It’s not your classic Chardonnay and has a really full body and buttery feel. A must try at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9)

We are always updating our Supermarket Wine Bargains on the website for most of the UK supermarkets, so keep your eyes peeled for more up to date, bang on the money recommendations.

Penfolds Launches New Champagne

When it comes to high-quality Australian wine, Penfolds is the name that springs to mind for us and for many others no doubt.

In 1844, Dr. Chrstopher Penfold and wife, Mary Penfold made the daunting move from England all the way over to Australia. Crucially, they stopped at France for vine cuttings and when these were planted at the Magill Estate near Adelaide, Penfolds was born. To celebrate their 180th birthday this year, they’ve given quite the present to themselves and us.

We’re big fans of Penfolds because they are just so reliable, no matter your budget. Indeed, they’ve provided many a wine for our Bring a Bottle podcast. If you see a Penfolds bottle on a shelf, you know that what’s inside won’t disappoint… and there really aren’t that many producers you can say that about.

We’ve luxuriated in their fantastic Shiraz range for a long time, but this isn’t about classic Aussie reds, this is about bubbles. More specifically, the Penfolds New Cuvée Brut Champagne. Working with Champagne Thiénot and expanding their links with France that started everything 180 years ago, Penfolds’ Chief Winemaker Peter Gago and Champagne Thiénot’s Chef de Cave Nicolas Uriel have conceived the project.

Not only did Penfolds originate with French vines, but legendary winemaker Max Schubert also learnt from Bordeaux ideas and techniques for Penfold’s iconic 1951 Grange, their most famous wine. All these years later, and the focus remains on intertwining French methods with Penfold’s classic house style.

This new Champagne follows Penfolds’ inaugural release of three 2012 vintage Champagnes at The Ritz Paris in 2019. Since then, they’ve been working at getting increasingly involved with on-the-ground winemaking in France, setting up at La Place de Bordeaux, Château Cambon la Pelouse and others. So, whilst this release looks back and celebrates 180 years of winemaking, it also seems like the beginning of something very exciting (and delicious).

The product of this luxury collaboration will be released across the globe later in the year in September 2024, expected to price at around $79 Australian Dollars, around £41.

What Can I Mix With Gin Instead Of Tonic?

The only ever-present force in gin is juniper, with its earthy, piney flavour – everything else can and does change. Therefore, as long as your mixer pairs well with juniper, you should end up along the right lines. It does depend on the style and botanicals of the gin, however.

For example, is it pink with berries? Is it umami and marine? Is it floral and citrusy? There are all kinds of complex flavours floating around, and you want a mixer that enhances those qualities. Of course though, you want a gin mixer that you enjoy, and that’s really all that matters.

If you’re not into tonic for whatever reason, then try these popular suggestions instead – we think they’re the best way to go.

Is Lemonade a Good Mixer with Gin?

Particularly with younger drinkers, the polls show that this is the country’s favourite mixer with gin, ahead of even tonic. Be it pink lemonade with a little kick of red berries like raspberry and strawberry, or regular, it’s probably the best gin mixer for those with a sweeter tooth.

There’s more to this classic combo than just providing a sugar injection though. The tart, bright citrus that comes through with the lemonade contrasts beautifully with the rich, earthy juniper profile of gin. As long as the gin isn’t too sweet to begin with, lemonade will likely work.

Is Soda a Good Mixer with Gin?

If you just can’t get on board with tonic but really don’t want to overshadow the delicately poised botanicals in gin, then how about soda? It’s simply carbonated water (even more so than sparkling water), so it tastes just like water. Therefore, similar to whisky, it can actually open up the botanicals in gin and enhance your libation – without the bitterness that tonic water brings.

What you’ll get is what you expect, a diluted version of the gin which usually leads to a more savoury, zesty drink – one of the purists! Of course, with garnishes like lime, lemon or mint, syrup and cordial, you can take this in any direction you like.

Is Flavoured Tonic a Good Mixer with Gin?

Alright, alright, so this is still tonic but hear us out. The main reason some people don’t like tonic water with gin is the bitter taste, mostly from the quinine. However, where there used to be no variation with tonics, there is now a tonne of it, and these flavoured tonics don’t have high quinine content.

The great thing about a flavoured tonic is that by retaining the lightness of water with only subtle flavourings, it still very much lets the gin shine as the star of the show. So, if you’ve never clicked with original tonic but still want the gin front and centre, we urge you to try some flavoured tonics.

For example, a simple Mediterranean tonic with a little citrus and herbs is fantastic with citrus and herbaceous gins and an elderflower tonic really emphasises the florality in floral gins – you really would be surprised at the difference it can make.

We love Franklin & Son’s range for its creativity and quality, and they have so many flavoured tonics, lemonades and sodas that are dreamy mixers for all kinds of gin – like Rosemary and Black Olive, Sicilian Lemon Tonic and Rhubarb and Hibiscus. Check out a few we love here!

Is Ginger Beer a Good Mixer with Gin?

Topping up your gin with the warming fizz of ginger beer has become a bit of a trend in the world of gin. You might not put the two together straight away, but it’s surprisingly versatile. Sweeter Old Tom styles go well, and with spiced, wintery gins it really emphasises the botanicals like cardamom, orange, cinnamon, and it goes without saying, ginger.

It works really well with big-flavoured gins that might need tempering a little, and the spicy feel is brilliant for standing up to bolder gin notes.

Is Grapefruit Juice a Good Mixer with Gin?

You’re never too far from citrus when it comes to gin combos.  Grapefruit juice is really handy for gin too because it’s a very popular botanical. It has a bittersweet, tart freshness that makes for a delicious combination with gin. Pink or red juices are dryer and sweeter, but the white is more bitter and acidic, so it’s down to personal preference really.

If you’ve got a very sweet pink gin for example, white may cut through nicely but for most gins, a ruby red grapefruit juice adds a nice layer. It’s also a lovely way of making your drink summery without too much sugar. Any fruity, citrusy gins and it’s a winner.

If you want some stunning gins to try out these mixers with, then we compiled some special bottles recently for our guide here.

There are a lot of questions like this one that float around the drinks world, and another one we get asked a lot is, ‘Is there a correct way to drink whisky?’

Is There a ‘Correct’ Way to Drink Whisky?

Whisky is probably the most intimidating drink out there, steeped in history and incredible variety, including some challenging expressions that most beginners are likely to struggle with. Even with the resurgence of Irish whiskey, access to American creations and shedding of the ‘old men pouring dusty bottles with cigars’ image, we still come across the question of ‘is there a correct way to drink whisky?’ a lot.

Well, in a word, the answer is no. As with everything drinks related, it really is down to personal preference, palate, whisky experience, and the bottle itself. If you enjoy it, then it’s correct, no matter how strange. There are no set rules, but there are popular methods and nuances that will help you get the most out of your glass. The key, of course, is to experiment and discover what works for you.

If once you’re done, you want to pick out a whisky, or whiskey (American and Irish) to get started with, then we’re always updating our guides of the best bottles, so take a look here and across the website.

Drinking Whisky Neat

You’ll come across a lot of purists preaching neat drinking. No ice, no water, no mixers, just the dram. This is the simplest way to taste whisky because you’re experiencing the liquid on its own. Often, drinkers will cleanse the palate with some cool water between sips too.

For well-aged, high-end whiskies rich in complexity, this is usually the best way to get the absolute most from the tasting experience. Room temperature whisky tends to bring the most flavour, and with no mixer in the way, you’re able to explore all the subtle notes and depths of the dram.

Of course, if you’re a total newbie, then this might be a bit much because it will be intense and difficult to enjoy, let alone explore.

If you’re wondering how neat drinkers who still desire a chill to their drink achieve this, they use whisky stones to lower the temperature without diluting the dram, which is a neat trick that keeps the drink, well, neat.

Drinking Whisky On The Rocks

On the rocks, or with ice, tames the intensity of whisky initially, and then as it melts, it dilutes and has the same effect as a splash of water. It makes for a far more refreshing experience, so may be more of a summer favourite.

Will you detect the full plethora of notes and complexity? No, probably not, because the ice will dull them a little, but remember, it is only water, and a small amount won’t overpower the whisky whatsoever.

It’s important to consider the measure (single or double… or even triple) and the size and amount of ice. Bigger ice chunks may not be melted by the time you’re finished, but crushed ice will melt very quickly.  

Drinking Whisky with a Dash of Water

Adding a dash of water isn’t just about smoothing out the alcohol. It does do that, but with some whiskies it actually enhances the flavour. Whilst the purists enjoy neat drinking, they also embrace a few drops of water because, especially with higher ABV bottles, it really tempts out hidden notes. Even with accustomed dram drainers, a whisky getting towards 60% will numb the senses somewhat, so water really helps unlock some flavours.

How much to add is entirely down to you but remember the golden rule - you can always add more. Some people literally just add a drop or two, so start with tiny amounts, taste, and see if you can notice any differences in aroma, texture, taste, and finish.

Drinking Whisky in Cocktails

Some whiskies are straight up better suited for cocktail mixing. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re worse, just that they’re bold enough to come through and work alongside the other ingredients. Cocktails are a team game after all. Whiskies range massively with fruits, spice, smoke, sweetness, and wood, so they’re versatile when it comes to mixology.

Also, as is the case with pretty much every spirit, cocktails are the best way to ease yourself into whisky. You’re not getting big, in your face hits of the spirit, instead, you’re getting a taste of it, tempered by whatever else is in the cocktail.

A simple Highball (whisky, ice, and mixer) is an accessible and simple place to start, be that with sparkling water, ginger ale, cola, or something else. Other popular whisky cocktails are the Old Fashioned, Manhattan and the Whisky Sour. You can find loads more whisky cocktails in our One Drink, Three Ways section.

One area that whisky leads the way in is hot cocktails, and with comforting flavours and heat surrounding it, it’s a super accessible way to get into the spirit. Irish Coffee and Hot Toddy are two favourites, but also try this Spiced Clementine Mulled Whisky.