Food & Drink

Annandale Distillery has a history that stretches back more than a century, marked by ambition, innovation, and revival. Once a vital part of the Scotch whisky industry, it fell silent for decades before its meticulous restoration. I learned about the distillery's revival recently at a wonderful dinner hosted by Professor David Thomson and his wife Teresa at Fortnum & Mason.

Easter signals the arrival of spring, a season of renewal, celebration and hopefully some long-awaited warmth. As you get together with family to celebrate this festive occasion, it is important to make your drink selections just right. The following selection offers a diverse range of wine and 3 delicious whiskies, each embodying the essence of its origin and matching perfectly with traditional Easter food. 

Liqueurs and syrups are the unsung heroes of mixology. While spirits form the backbone of a cocktail, it’s the carefully balanced additions that transform a simple drink into something extraordinary. Whether it’s a splash of Crème de Cassis to elevate a Kir Royale, a touch of Menthe-Pastille for a fresh twist on a Mojito, or a drizzle of passion fruit syrup to brighten a tropical creation, Giffard has been providing bartenders and home enthusiasts alike with the tools to make exceptional cocktails for over a century.

Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill is one of London’s most iconic restaurants, blending sophistication with timeless elegance and reflecting the hotel’s rich heritage. Reimagined by Gordon Ramsay, the restaurant reopened its doors in April 2023, revitalising a space that has been a favourite of actors, politicians, and influential figures for generations. The subtle updates were well worth the investment, as the buzzing dining room now welcomes a new demographic of passionate foodies alongside its regulars.

Valentine’s Day has long been associated with grand gestures and sentimental traditions, but at its core, it’s simply an occasion to slow down and share something meaningful. Few things do this as effortlessly as wine. Whether opening a bottle for a quiet dinner at home or selecting something special to toast an evening out, the right choice enhances the moment without needing fanfare. This year, rather than reaching for the predictable, I have chosen 8 wines that you might not ordinarily choose - it is good to be adventurous after all!