From smoky malts to innovative gins, we’ve rounded up a selection of standout bottlings from 2019, including big sellers and news-worthy releases.
2019 is dead. Long live 2020.
But before we look forward to what’s to come from what is sure to be another exciting year, we thought you’d get a kick out of one last glance at 2019 and the drinks that stood out. While the rest of the world around us continued to go a bit J. G. Ballard, the world of booze went from strength-to-strength, releasing rafts of innovative expressions and delicious drinks for us to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Get stuck in!
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Every year whisky fans everywhere look forward to the Diageo Special Releases and every year the Lagavulin bottling is one of the most hotly anticipated. It did not disappoint. From the classic Islay smoke to the coastal salinity and the beautiful fruity notes, Lagavulin 12 Year Old was a smash hit. Also, there’s a badass eagle on the label. What more could you ask for?!
What does it taste like?:
Sweet peat smoke like a recently extinguished bonfire, salty sea breeze, Bramley apples, freshly-cut wet grass and citrus.
Hayman’s Small Gin
Such a fascinating, innovative release, Hayman’s Small Gin was definitely a highlight of the last twelve months. It’s a full-strength gin that was created with stronger botanical flavours so you could reduce the amount of spirit required to make a good G&T. Essentially the aim was to reduce alcohol consumption by 80%, as you should only require 5ml of Hayman’s Small Gin (the bottle comes with a 5ml thimble, happily). We’re of the opinion that it really does work, but why not test it yourself?
What does it taste like?:
Piney juniper, fennel and bright citrus peel, with coriander spice underneath.
Rumbullion! Chilli & Chocolate
Abelforth’s already had a delicious drink in the form of Rumbullion!, but the crafty creators of spirits didn’t rest on its laurels. By adding criollo cocoa nibs, chipotle chillies and jalapeño chillies to the secret recipe behind the tasty rum they created Rumbullion! Chilli & Chocolate, a delightfully warming tipple that we think would be sensational in a hot chocolate…
What does it taste like?:
Intense bittersweet dark chocolate leads with earthy red chilli warmth, creamy vanilla. coffee beans, nutmeg, red cola cubes and orange zest in support.
Graham’s Blend Nº5 White Port
White Port & Tonic is the cocktail of the future, people. Take note. And if you’re going to embrace the burgeoning sensation, then you’ll need the right spirit. We recommend Graham’s Blend Nº5 White Port, which was made from hand-picked grapes which were then fermented in small batches. It’s a contemporary take on the classic style, which is mirrored in the bright and beautiful bottle decoration.
What does it taste like?:
Medium dry, evident notes of white grapes, lime, peaches and a drizzle of honey alongside mint and lemon.
World Whisky Blend (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
One of the most wonderful things about whisky is that it’s made and enjoyed the world over, from Scandinavia, to Japan, from the US to Scotland and so much more. It’s this global appreciation of the good stuff that inspired That Boutique-y Whisky Company to create the World Whisky Blend, a blend of incredible whiskies from all over this planet called ‘Earth’. It’s delightful mixed or neat, although we suggest you embrace your experimental side and try it with coconut water or even green tea.
What does it taste like?:
Freshly baked bread, floral honey, orange marmalade, tart stewed apple, brown sugar, crunchy, underripe pear, a prickle of spice, toffee, vanilla pod and a slight mineral note.
Mermaid Pink Gin
Pink Gin has stormed the drinks industry in a big way in recent times, so it was no surprise to see it continue its surge in popularity throughout 2019. While some of the huge and established brands have perfectly good pink gins you can enjoy, we wanted to shine a light on an up-and-comer we feel has a lot of promise and its own take on the style: Mermaid Pink Gin. Made by the wonderful folk over at The Isle of Wight Distillery, this expression got its sweet flavour profile and rosy hue thanks to an infusion of island strawberries.
What does it taste like?:
Light and bright, the strawberry notes arrive right away, supported by citrus and slowly building juniper spice. Samphire gives is a coastal edge, while hints of liquorice root and coriander develop later on.
Nine Elms No.18
Who would have thought a few years ago that non-alcoholic tipples would be making their mark in the drinks industry? 2019 was a huge year for low-and-no ABV drinks such as Nine Elms No.18, one of the highlights of the growing category. Specially designed to complement food, it takes the juices from four different varieties of berry and botanical infusions from 20 different flowers, herbs and spices. Nine Elms recommend imbibing it neat, but we reckon a dash of tonic wouldn’t go amiss either.
What does it taste like?:
Bright and vibrant, with refreshing acidity and cranberry tartness, a hint of tannic black tea, and an earthy, leafy note.
