December 7th 2024.
Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for your friend who loves drinks? Look no further, because we have some fantastic suggestions for you. Believe it or not, British products have a reputation for being classy and refined on a global scale. Forget the stereotypical image of drunk Brits causing chaos on a Saturday night, because according to the rest of the world, we are a nation of James Bonds and Mary Poppins (minus a few football hooligans and Boris Johnson, of course).
And let’s be real, English wine used to be the butt of jokes among the French and other wine-producing countries. But now, it’s beating out Champagne houses in prestigious international competitions. This unexpected success can be attributed, in part, to global warming and its positive impact on grape growing conditions in England. It turns out, England is now the perfect place for producing top-notch sparkling wine, much to the surprise of our neighboring countries.
While it may have once seemed like a pipe dream to successfully grow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in England, today some of the world's best wines are coming from regions like Sussex, Hampshire, and Kent. And it’s not just limited to those areas - we’re seeing vines being planted as far north as Yorkshire and Scotland. But it’s not just wine that’s experiencing a golden age in Britain right now - our spirits are also on the rise. From English whisky to Scottish agave spirits, Welsh rum, and London-distilled gin, we are in the midst of a ‘made-in-Britain’ renaissance.
With all this in mind, we’ve put together a list of some fantastic, boozy gifts for your loved ones this Christmas. These British-made products are sure to impress and delight even the most discerning drink connoisseurs.
First up, we have the Krink x Barossa Ink Shiraz, a collaboration between an Australian winery and a New York-based artist known for his large-scale installations. Not only is the label stunning, but the wine itself has received rave reviews for its smooth, rich taste.
If your friend is into mixology, they’ll love the Bitter Club Bitters, which come in a luxurious perfume-like bottle and add a touch of depth and bitterness to cocktails. Made from natural ingredients, these bitters come in flavors like cinnamon and orange. They’re basically a must-have for any serious home bartender.
For the bookworm in your life, we recommend English Whisky: The journey from grain to glass by Ted Brunning and Rupert Wheeler. This book explores the exciting world of English whisky, showcasing nearly 40 distilleries that are proving England is a playground for experimentation and innovation in the spirits industry.
Next, we have Brit Pop Sparkling, a deliciously creamy fizz produced by Blur bassist Alex James in collaboration with an award-winning Dorset winery. Made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, this sparkling wine is sure to be a hit with any music or wine lover.
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful vermouth, check out 58 & Co Bianco Vermouth. Made from repurposed Pinot Grigio and infused with botanicals, this vermouth is all lemon verbena and vanilla - perfect for adding a touch of complexity to your cocktails.
For something a little closer to home, we have Denbies Artisan Small Batch Gin, made from the grape skins used to produce award-winning orange wine at the Denbies winery in Surrey. This gin is infused with peppery grains of paradise and distilled in small batches, making it a must-try for any gin lover.
If you want to really impress your loved ones, consider gifting them a bottle of Diistil Jalapeño Distillate. This innovative company is known for transforming unexpected ingredients like avocado, beetroot, and even jalapeño into high-quality spirits. Trust us, the Jalapeño version is a game-changer.
For the fashion-forward drinker, we suggest the Partner in Wine Soft Touch Burgundy Bottle, a stylish and insulated bottle perfect for keeping your wine at the perfect temperature. The creator of this brand, Lucy Hitchcock, has built an empire around the concept of being a “Partner in Wine,” and her products are top-notch in both design and quality.
Last but certainly not least, we have The Precision Wine Glass, a collaboration between renowned wine expert Jancis Robinson and high-end homeware brand Richard Brendon. These glasses are a must-have for any wine enthusiast, with a fine rim and tulip-shaped bowl that Robinson herself claims is the only glass you’ll ever need.
If you want to stay ahead of the curve in the world of drinks, be sure to check out Metro’s Drinks Column, where industry expert Rob Buckhaven shares his knowledge and recommendations for the latest and greatest in the world of drinks. From budget-friendly supermarket wines to the trendiest new cocktails, this column is a haven for anyone who loves to imbibe.
So, whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a friend or just want to treat yourself, these British-made products are sure to impress. Cheers to a ‘made-in-Britain’ golden age!
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