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I love a surprise, and I certainly had one on a recent trip to Warner’s Distillery near Kettering. Having judged the gin category at major food and drink awards multiple times, I have grown to dread the afternoon session. That is the slot reserved for flavoured gin. Quite frankly, eighty per cent are atrocious monstrosities made with cheap artificial flavourings that taste foul. It is routinely the worst afternoon of my judging year. When you find a good one though, it can be absolutely delicious, as I was delighted to discover on the rolling hills of Falls Farm.

I was recently among a small group invited to the hallowed rooms of Bonhams in London to taste the new Eagle Rare 30 Year Old. This represents the oldest age stated bourbon ever released by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. More significantly, it is a release that challenges the long held perception of exactly how long a Kentucky bourbon can remain in barrel before it loses its soul.

Bovey Castle boasts a rich and fascinating history, one that elegantly interweaves a celebrated British retail dynasty, W.H. Smith, with the golden age of railway travel and vital service during two World Wars. Originally conceived as a private country bolthole, it has blossomed into one of the UK's most prominent luxury hotels.

As a whisky writer, I’m acutely aware of how fortunate I am. Bottles arrive at my door with frequency. Invitations to distilleries and dinners appear often. Some I politely decline, others I gratefully accept. But once or twice a year, an invitation lands that changes everything. It gives the feeling I must imagine those that receive notification of being given a MBE feel. A date that you might move existing commitments for, such is the rarity and importance. 

Situated in the heart of Montone, just 50 metres from the stunning piazza, La Locanda del Capitano nestles within one of Italy’s most enchanting medieval villages. With its narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside, Montone is a place that draws visitors from around the globe. Over the past 17 years, I’ve visited this village dozens (if not hundreds) of times, sometimes twice in a single day. Such is its charm and breathtaking beauty.

Tomatin

Highland distillery Tomatin has launched a new series of single malts, The Sherry Collection, featuring three unique expressions that celebrate Sherry’s influence on Scotch whisky. This limited-edition collection highlights the distinct characteristics imparted by Manzanilla, Palo Cortado, and Pedro Ximénez casks.

Rum is an incredibly diverse and complex spirit, a discovery that becomes clearer the more you delve into its world. Made from either sugar cane or molasses, rum can vary widely in style, from light and fruity profiles to rich, dark expressions with bold, almost petrol-like flavours. 

Founded in 1905 by the young Norwegian adventurer Thomas Bache-Gabrielsen, the house has maintained its commitment to producing high-quality cognac for over a century. Thomas began his journey when he left Norway for France, driven by a passion for spirits and a keen entrepreneurial spirit. Joining forces with Peter Anton Rustad, another Norwegian, they acquired the established cognac house A. Edmond Dupuy. This acquisition marked the birth of Bache-Gabrielsen Cognac. I recently spoke with Claire Ronsin from the estate:-

I have been suffering from a rather nasty cold, which has prevented me from tasting, so a little behind in my diaries. This edition focuses on a selection of wines that have passed over my desk recently. I believe it is important to enjoy everyday wines, to provide perspective on the finer wine we enjoy. I recently had lunch with an old friend at Luca (report coming soon), who happens to be one of the world’s finest wine writers. When he is not drinking 1st Growth Claret, or sipping on DRC, he often buys a £8 bottle of white from Waitrose to enjoy.

Ardbeg The Rollercoaster

Ardbeg, one of Islay's predominate distilleries launched The Rollercoaster last week. This two-bottle set comprises a 1981 and 1989 expression representing the years the distillery closed and then reopened.