March 2024

It's the most wonderful time of the year again for us beer lovers, when the effervescent pilsners and lagers of the warmer months now transition into darker, stronger brews – chiefly ales, porters, stouts, and barley wines for these colder and longer nights. Seasonal beers should also have a sense of occasion about them, so we’ve homed in on the dozen seasonal specials that best reflect the exclusivity of this celebratory period, while offering the tastiest and warmest inner glow your money can buy during this festive season and beyond.

This edition marks an evolution in my drink diaries, as I introduce wine alongside my whisky musings. As a former Sommelier in a Michelin-starred restaurant, it feels both natural and exciting to start sharing this passion with you. Just as I have written about whisky and all of its pleasures, I will write in a similar way about wine. Expect insights and stories behind some of the world’s most esteemed vineyards and hidden gems, with of course lots of tasting notes. 

As you might expect, this time of year is pretty busy for all drink writers, and I for one have a desk of samples to taste through. This seems to pale into insignicance though compared to the sheer amount of Whisky Cask investment firms adverts I am being fed on social media. I urge you to avoid these and the promises of great returns unless you have specialist expertise. It is not regulated, casks are often vastly overpriced and you may not even own the cask you think you have bought. Buyer beware. 

On to this editions tastings:-

The Macallan is synonymous with unparalleled quality, craftsmanship, and a steadfast commitment to whisky making. This year, as The Macallan commemorates two centuries of excellence, enthusiasts like myself are buzzing with excitement to hear of the new releases that promise to mark this bicentennial celebration. Their 200th birthday is also an opportunity to reflect on the brand's contributions to the whisky world, and to toast all that they have achieved so far. 

As a romantic opportunity raises it's head, it is time to make an effort to find wines that are both delicious and suitable for the occasion. I like to move away from classical choices like Rosé Champagne, in favour of something that has required a little more thought, yet is readily available. Rosè wine, with its romantic hue, is an obvious choice, but we shouldn’t exclude others. My recommendation, if staying at home, is to put on a wine tasting for your partner. Not only will it spark conversation, but it will add an element of interaction to your evening.

Norton Motorcycles is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in history. Founded in 1898 as a manufacturer of fittings and parts for the two-wheel trade, In 1902 James Lansdowne designed and built the first Norton motorcycle; the Energette, powered by a 143cc, single-cylinder Clement engine.

Lily Collins is a British-American actress and model. She was born in Guildford, England, on March 18, 1989. However, she spent much of her childhood in Los Angeles, California, where she grew up in the Hollywood Hills. Her father is musician Phil Collins, and she is the daughter of his second wife, Jill Tavelman.