Tag Archives: alcohol

White Wine Summer Special

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Following on from our rosé wine special, here are some whites to enjoy this summer.

Louis Jadot Mâcon Blanc Villages 2014Louis Jadot Mâcon Blanc Villages 2014 

This is a superior white wine. Well balanced and ripe. This Chardonnay is soft and creamy with a crisp finish. Very enjoyable.

RRP: £12.05

Stockists:  Asda, Nisa, Palmer and Harvey, Wine Rack, Bin 21, The Devine Wine Company, Wimbledon Wine Cellars, Eynsham Cellars, Luvians Bottleshop

An extremely well made and balanced Chardonnay showing the lovely ripe fruit of the Burgundy region that gives a balanced wine with a soft, gentle creamy mouthfeel and crisp apple characters all balanced by just enough fresh acidity.  This wine is lovely on its own but also make the perfect partner to fish and chicken dishes at your summer picnic.

Cune Barrel Fermented Blanco 2014Cune Barrel Fermented Blanco 2014

I do like a good Rioja and this one is particularly pleasing. It is 100% Viura grapes and has freshness in abundance. Perfect on a summers day.

RRP: £9.80

Stockists: Waitress.com, Wine Rack, Tanners Wines, Eynsham Cellars, Ellie’s Cellar, The Seriously Good Wine Company, Old Chapel Cellars

This wine will remind you of how good white Rioja can be.  Made using 100% Viura grapes, this wines has fresh citrus flavours and a toasty richness on the palate. Just the thing with a chicken salad or grilled fish.

Errazuriz Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc 2015

Errazuriz Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc 2015

I am a fan of Errazuriz Estate AND Sauvignon Blanc so this one was bound to go down well. This one is fresh, dry and delicious. Tropical fruit and citrus notes make it ideal for summer.

RRP: £10.30

Stockists: Waitrose, Morrison, Majestic, Wine Rack, Fenwick, Cheers Wine Merchants, Field and Fawcett, Palmer and Harvey, Vino Wines

Fragrant tropical aromas of melon, papaya and passion fruit are mingled with subtle citrus notes. Intense and refreshing, this Sauvignon Blanc shows vibrant acidity and a juicy, elegant finish.  Ideal for sipping in the sunshine.

 

 

Summer Rosé Wine Review Special

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There are few better pleasures in life than a glass of rosé on a summers day. Here are some picks from us. We have been hard at work testing three different bottles of rosé. Don’t say we don’t love you.
Jean-Luc Colombo Pins Couches Rosé 2015Jean-Luc Colombo Pins Couches Rosé 2015

This is one of the best rosés on the market. Subtle and refreshing, this wine is clear and light. This gorgeous, abundant wine transports you to the Italian sunshine. A huge winner. .

Available from: BargainBooze.com, Vino Wines, Wino’s, Harrods.com, Ellie’s Cellar, Partridges of Sloane Street, Les Caves du Patron, Kingsgate Wines

RRP: £11.10

A light, refreshing and dry Rosé with abundant yet subtle red fruit characters. On the palate, notes of fresh fruits and herbs evoke the terroir of the Mediterranean coast, transporting you to sunny climates all summer long.

Joseph Mellot Sancerre Le Rabault Rosé 2014

 Joseph Mellot Sancerre Le Rabault Rosé 2014

Perfect for picnics and barbecues. Delicate and floral. A not-too-sweet wine that is both delicate and fruity. It is a beautiful salmon colour and has a fruity freshness.

Available from: Aitken Wines, Fountainhall Wines, The Whalley Wine Shop, The Leamington Wine Company, Eagle Wines

RRP: £18.80

With a delicate floral nose and fresh raspberries on the palate this wine is the perfect partner to any summer BBQ.

Villa Maria Private Bin Rosé 2015

Villa Maria Private Bin Rosé 2015

Refreshing and dry, the ripe berry fruit makes this wine another perfect summer addition. It’s sweetness makes it a perfect apéritif.

Available from: Tesco.com, Majestic.co.uk, Temple Wines, Beers Wines & Spirits, Village Wines, Hailsham Cellars

RRP: £10.30

This New Zeland Rosé has bright floral aromas with flavours of strawberry, red fruits and spice and a delicious smooth finish which will go down perfectly at all summer soirées.

 

Capturing Mumm’s Daring Spirit with New Grand Cordon Bottle

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Mumm Grand Cordon bottle shot

Maison Mumm have continued to pride themselves on their innovation and their daring spirit. Being sponsors to a host of sporting events throughout their production including The Vendée Globe, Formula 1 and Le Mans to name a few, Mumm have recently become proud sponsors of The Fia Formula E Championship. In 1876 Georges Hermann Mumm decided that he would pay homage to all of his prestigious customers by adding an iconic red ribbon to every bottle representing the highest of all French Honours and encapsulating the motto of GH Mumm of “only the best”. The red sash aka the Cordon Rouge has now become synonymous with the extraordinary achievements Mumm supports today and marking their latest sponsorship with Formula E and 140 years of the iconic red sash, Mumm have revealed a brand new revolutionary bottle, Grand Cordon.

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Frost were honoured to be invited by Mumm to the Formula E final and witness the new bottle in action at the infamous Victory Podium. The origins of the Champagne spray started all the way back in the sixties where Le Mans winner Jo Siffert accidentally sprayed the crowd due to a Champagne bottle which has been left out in the sun causing a build up of pressure. The next year, another racer deliberately re-created the happy mistake and thus was born this momentous tradition. Having upgraded to Mumm’s Jeroboam bottle which is a staggering 3 litres, there is now double the amount of Champagne to soak the anticipating crowd.

Having arrived at Battersea Park with not much knowledge of Motor Sports we were given the low down on what Formula E entailed by the fantastic hosts and representatives of Maison Mumm.

Jean-Eric Vergne and Bruno Senna Mumm Grand Cordon champagne sprayEssentially, Formula E is The World’s first auto race which uses electric cars. Formula E represents a vision for the future of the motor industry and being the sponsors of the tournament, Mumm are proud to back the efforts of sustaining and maintaining a cleaner and greener future. The series started in 2014 in Beijing and is contested by ten teams of two drivers each. This year, the contest was comprised of ten races with the final being in Battersea and it has recently been revealed that next year will consist of fourteen races with the final being on the streets of Brooklyn. The drivers are divided into four groups with each group having 6 minutes to set their best lap. The five fastest drivers then go out again to determine their grid position. The race itself is over within 55 minutes with each driver changing cars once throughout, after all, they are electric cars. One of the most interesting features of the Fia Formula E is the Fanboost which allows the fans to have some power over their favourite drivers by voting for them using social media channels. The three most popular drivers receive an extra energy boost potentially changing the outcome of the race. Points are then awarded using the current standard FIA system with drivers who set the fastest lap being awarded two extra points. This years final was won by Sebastien Buemi after a thrilling final race taking the lead and spraying the anticipating crowd with GH Mumm Jeraboam.

Mumm Grand Cordon

Mumm produce Champagne’s which capture the essence of adventure and victory and their constant celebration of this has been their inspiration for their Limited Edition Victory Bottles. Each of the Mumm Champagne bottles are uniquely produced and turned by hand to remove any sediment and are monitored for over two years before they are released. The Grand Cordon bottle designed by multi-award winning designer Ross Lovegrove is inventive and creative to say the least true to Mumm’s daring style. Breaking the convention of the original bottles, the bottle has no front label, instead the G.H. Mumm signature and eagle emblem are printed in gold directly on the glass. The neck of the bottle is also unusually longer designed to encapsulate the development of the aromas of Mumm’s legendary Cordon Rouge Cuvée. The most striking addition to the new bottle is that the iconic red sash, only altered twice in as much as two centuries, has now been transformed into a genuine red ribbon which has been indented into the glass. A true celebration of over two centuries of excellence and tradition.

So if you would like a slice of victory on your wine rack;

Mumm Grand Cordon is now available to buy;
www.sohowine.co.uk
RRP: £39.99

Get Set for The Spirit Show launching December ’16

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TheSpiritShowFullTitleTreatment

This Winter see’s the UK launch of the alcohol industry’s hotly tipped Premium Spirit Show and we’re happy to announce its going to be hosted it in good ol’ London Town. Taking place at The Business Design Centre in the heart of Angel, traders from all ends of the Spirit world… not the phantom kind, will be showcasing their brands to traders and consumers alike. From a host of Premium Whisky Distilleries to a number of Boutique Gin and Vodka producers, this will certainly be the place to be for all customers/traders wishing to explore something old or new and discover something inspiring. With Organisers expecting close to 10,000 visitors over the two-day duration, no wonder it has been billed as “The Ultimate Tasting Event.”

The Spirit Show will focus on it’s premium market of Whiskies, Gin, Vodka and Rum but will also feature Champagnes, Wines and Fine Foods making it the ultimate fancy, boozy weekend. The weekend will also feature tastings and expert discussions, cookery demo’s and a host of other fun-filled activities all set within a backdrop of Live Music, entertainment and some other surprises.

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We’re sure this is going to be a sell out so get into the Christmas Spirit and sign up for The Spirit Show’s newsletter for information about pre-sale tickets. Corporate and group packages are also available in case you fancy ditching The Christmas Party. Or avoid the Christmas Party complete and impress someone with the must have ticket of the year.

Ticket’s will be launched soon so sign up for info here;

The Spirit Show

December 9-10

The Business Design Centre,
Upper Street
Angel Islington.

Add Some Zest To Your Summer With Cîroc Pink Grapefruit

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CIROC_PINK GRAPEFUIT BOTTLE FRONT

Frost stumbled across this discovery and thought it looked interesting: CÎROC vodka launches a new summer variant, available only in the UK

CÎROC unveils a vibrant new summer infusion to its family of bespoke vodkas.

Available exclusively in the UK, this lively new addition is a subtle blend of CÎROC with a hint of refreshing citrus pink grapefruit – the perfect serve to enjoy celebrating with friends on summer evenings.

Zesty and fresh on the palate, with a fragrant hint of orange blossom, CÎROC Pink Grapefruit is best enjoyed as CÎROC Sea Breeze, with a splash of cranberry juice and squeeze of fresh lime, creating a modern twist on the popular vodka serve. Alternatively, try the CÎROC Pink Grapefruit & Sage Smash, a medley of fresh sage leaves, lemon juice, pink grapefruit juice and soda over ice. This simple, zingy drink is the epitome of summer sophistication.

Skilfully created by CÎROC Master Distiller Jean-Sébastien Robiquet, CÎROC is crafted exclusively using vodka that is five-times distilled from fine French grapes for supreme taste. Real citrus extract, from the peels and oils of the pink grapefruit, has been gently infused with the vodka to create CÎROC Pink Grapefruit for the ultimate refreshing taste and smooth finish.

This seventh edition to be added to the brand’s collection marks the first citrus variety of CÎROC. Recognised as one of the best-loved citrus flavours amongst Brits, the latest variant is sure to be as successful as the hugely popular release of CÎROC Pineapple in 2015.

CÎROC Pink Grapefruit is available from selected retailers nationwide, sainsburys.co.uk, tesco.com, waitress,com, at an RRP of £38 per 70cl bottle.

 

 

Toast Father’s Day with “only the best” Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne

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With Father’s Day less than a fortnight away we’re ditching socks in order for something a bit luxurious, Mumm. No, we didn’t mean our mums, after all it is Father’s day. We meant the finest, most luxurious Mumm Champagne on the market. The prestigious G.H Mumm Champagne traces back to the Knights and Barons of the 12th Century. Now one of the largest Champagne producers in The World, the motto of Georges Hermann Mumm remains “only the best” and we think that’s nothing short of what our Dad’s deserve. After all, Mumm is not just for Mums.

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So why not raise a toast to Dad this Father’s Day and celebrate in style. Whatever your budget, we have a round-up of the best Mumm Champagne’s to suit you. All of which feature the iconic Cordon Rouge Champagne summing up the style and spirit of the Mumm Champagne house. Crafted from a blend of 50 different wines from up to 77 different vineyards with a high proportion of reserve wines from five different vintages, Mumm Cordon Rouge provides aromas of lemon and grapefruit, with notes of white peach, apricot and apple, plus lingering notes of vanilla, dried fruit and honey. We were lucky enough to review a bottle of G.H Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne and this is what we thought.

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The sun is out…almost, and the popping of a Champagne cork is the most heavenly sound. Decanting Mumm into the flutes reveal a luxurious straw colour filled with lots of little bubbles. Light and chilled to perfection, this is one of the most crisp and more-ish bottles of Champagne on the market. Made up of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this wonderful Champagne is perfectly balanced in every way, rich without being too overpowering. The fruity notes of peach and apple on the nose and hints of citrus is what strikes me straight away as it’s almost like a summer crumble, definitely winning already. Don’t be fooled by the lightness, this delectable glass has a strong taste without being as overly dry as some of it’s other competitors which is a great indication to me that I will not be suffering from the dreaded Champagne headache making it a very palatable glass of fizz. Again because of the great range, you could pair this Champagne with anything from poultry to meatier fish and game. Or if you’re like me, add a few strawberries to the bottom of your glass, pour over and enjoy. With an average price of £25 per 75cl bottle, this Champagne is excellent value for money and having been the official Formula One victory Champagne, if it’s good enough to be sprayed all over Lewis Hamilton, it’s good enough for us.

Whether you’re looking to splash out on the biggest bottle of bubbles or get a more reasonable priced bottle in addition to a pair of socks, we’re here to help you pick something to suit you, because after all, “only the best” for Dad.

On a Budget:

MUMM Half Bottle (37.5cl)

If you’re looking for a great introduction to Mumm give this a go. Perfect as an accompanying gift;

MummchampagneHalfBottle reflection-2

Serves 3-4 Glasses

RRP: £17

The Champagne Company

Value for Money:

MUMM Bottle (75cl)

The Classic and unbeatable full size bottle serves perfectly as a stand alone gift;

mummbrut

Serves 5-6 Glasses

RRP: £27.50

The Champagne Company

A Little Pricier:

MUMM No.1 Victory Limited Edition Bottle (75cl)

For any Formula One enthusiast, this specially designed Victory bottle is perfect. With its iconic red sash you get to create your very own victorious Formula One podium moment presenting this to Dad;

F1-Bottle mumm3

Serves 5-6 Glasses

RRP: £50

The Champagne Company

Feeling Flush:

MUMM Jeroboam (300cl)

Equivalent to 4 standard bottles, this boxed Jeroboam is designed for sharing. Presented in a wooden gift box let the Jeroboam take pride of place atop a bar or at the front of a drinks cabinet until it’s time to celebrate. After all no celebration is complete without everyone toasting with a glass of Champagne;

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Size of 4 standard bottles; presented in a beautiful wooden gift box

RRP: £185

The Champagne Company

So make it Mumm this Father’s Day with “only the best” Mumm Champagne

For a full range and Next Day Delivery before 3pm we recommend you use

The Champagne Company

Celebrate 325 years of Ketel One Vodka

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Ketel One Brunswick House Supper Image

The World’s much loved Vodka brand, Ketel One, celebrate 325 years of their family’s distilling expertise and to celebrate they are hosting some very unique and impressive Supper Clubs in South London. Boasting an impressive 325 years in the business, it’s no wonder why they are one of the most recognised and trusted Vodka brands ever and The Nolet Family, who founded the distillery, have continued to carry out their dedication by personally approving each final production before bottling.

To mark the milestone and love of their successful family business, The Nolet Family are hoping that their much loved customers will help celebrate with them and are inviting you to attend one of their family-style suppers at the historic and dramatic Brunswick House. Your evening will be hosted and curated by Ketel One and renowned chef Jackson Boxer and set in the Parlour and Library Rooms of the prestigious eighteenth-century mansion.

The menu created by Boxer has been inspired by family dishes and served with specially paired Ketel One Vodka cocktails;

Sample Menu

Squid, Vodka with Caviar

Dry-Aged Brisket with Horseradish and Redcurrant

Alphonso Mango, Almond Milk, Rice, Black Sesame

The ticketed Supper Clubs will take place on

*Wednesday 25th May, 6.30pm – 10pm*

*Friday 27th May, 6.30pm – 10pm*

*Brunswick House, 30 Wandsworth Road, London, SW8 2LG*

Tickets will be £45 per person, and include a cocktail
and canapé reception, followed by a five-course meal with paired
cocktails

We think that is seriously good value to enjoy and celebrate the legacy that is Ketel One in a stunning setting with superb food.

Tickets are available now through Design My Night

Alongside these celebrations, for those who are unable to attend the event but still want to be raise a toast to Ketel One’s triumphant milestone, a limited “325 anniversary” edition copper coloured bottle is available to buy now from Harvey Nichols, both in store and online (*priced at £45*).

For recipes and to learn more about Ketel One visit;

http://www.ketelone.com

Stylish Gins at Wine Rack

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It may often be thought of as ‘mother’s ruin’, but these days gin is becoming very popular – and not just with mums. A lot of stylish bars and pubs with a young and trendy clientele have entire racks full of different gins.

Wine Rack and Bargain Booze had their Spring tasting yesterday. And the most exciting thing was the range of superb gins. The two chains – they are part of the same organisation – sell around 140 different varieties of gin. And many of them have unusual flavours.

Gin is a neutral spirit – made from potatoes or grain or apples or just about anything which can be fermented – flavoured with juniper berries. In addition to the juniper it can have just about any other type of flavour. So gins can be quite distinctive.

The Slingsby London Dry Gin (£39.99) is flavoured with rhubarb, tea and jasmine, which makes it pleasantly smooth with a soft aroma. Chase Gin (£39.99) made in Herefordshire is distilled from apples, giving it a freshness on the palate, and is flavoured with just a hint of orange zest and liquorice.

Gins on offer at Winerack

Gins on offer at Winerack

 

Obviously not every drink will appeal to everyone. Brocks Intensely Smooth Gin (£35.99) is flavoured with blueberries and blackberries, but I felt that this made it somewhat medicinal in taste. But I particularly enjoyed the Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin made in Germany (£39.99 for 50cl). This is flavoured with sage and verbena and ginger, and I thought it was delicious.

With so many different types of gin, it would be lovely to work your way through the lot, although if you want to get through all 140 varieties, you’ll need deep pockets and a strong liver.