Spotlight on spirits

Your top five essential spirits

When you're in the middle of a pandemic, these are the five spirits and liqueurs you don't want to be without

Gin 


Possibly the most important spirit in our booze line-up, gin appears in favourite classic cocktails such as martinis, negronis and the French 75. But, of course, the main reason we need gin in our cupboard is so that we can make the ultimate gin tipple: the G&T. 

Vodka 


Vodka isn't nearly as flavourful as gin, and while that may make it a little less exciting, it also means it's much more versatile as a mixer. Whatever sodas or juices you happen to have on hand in the fridge, you can bet vodka will pair with it. Plus, it's the base of one of the most refreshing and tasty quenchers: the Kiwi and Mint Julep.

Rum 


Light rum is another versatile spirit that's essential for many cocktails. Both light and dark rum are fantastic as the base of a punch (ginger ale, pineapple juice, mint and lime all work well), while light rum is essential for a mojito or daiquiri.


Aperol 


If you haven't tried Aperol yet, it's an Italian aperitif made with bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona. As well as pairing with prosecco and soda for the spritz, we love it swapped out with Campari for a lighter twist on a negroni and with tequila and grapefruit for an Aperol Paloma

Whisky

While there are many great mixers for whisky – ginger ale, soda, lemonade, to name a few – this spirit tastes great on its own. But if you prefer to add a little somethin' somethin', drop in a twist of orange peel to bring out the whisky's citrus flavour and aroma. And, obviously, the better the quality, the better it tastes. 



 

Our Picks