Whether
you’re a fan of the fruity or prefer your drink to have a stronger sip, there’s
a cocktail for everyone. It’s always enjoyable to drink a professionally mixed
cocktail, but it can be a bit tricky to replicate the same experience at home.
To help you shake or stir together some delicious cocktails at home, we share some top tips to make your drink better.
Use
the Right Equipment
For
proper mixology, you’ll need an assortment of tools to create the best
cocktail, so if you want to replicate cocktail perfection at home, then you’ll
likely need to acquire a bit of gear:
Cocktail
shaker
Measure
Muddler
Mixing
Spoon
Juicer
Strainer
What
If I Don’t Have the Right Equipment?
However,
you might not be able to get your hands on this equipment, for one reason or
another, so there are some ways you can substitute it for items you are more
likely to have at home.
For
example, a thermos flask can be used in place of a cocktail shaker, an egg cup
can act as a measure, and the end of a wooden spoon can be used as a muddler
and mixer. A tea strainer or small sieve could be used to strain the cocktail,
and fruit can be juiced by hand.
If you get a bit creative with the tools you have available in your kitchen, then you’re sure to find a way to make a delicious cocktail with ease.
Use
Premium Alcohol
When
it comes to cocktails, the alcohol is usually the star of the show. While it
may be flavoured or enhanced by a bit of fresh juice, a cocktail will typically
highlight the flavour of alcohol, rather than mask it like a basic mixed drink,
like vodka and cola.
To make a cocktail taste great, you’ll need to choose a premium liquor. This isn’t to say that you’ll need to crack open the rare bottle of Scotch whisky you’ve had sitting proudly on your shelf, but it does mean stepping out of the cheapest alcohol bracket.
While you can use alcohol from popular brands that can be bought at supermarkets for £20 a bottle, naturally, the quality of alcohol is likely to get better if you spend a little more.
Chill
Your Glasses Before
Having
chilled glasses means that your cocktail will stay cool for longer, keeping its
refreshing quality through to the last sip. You can chill your glass by popping
it into the fridge or fill them with icy water.
Use
Plenty of Ice to Shake
Ice can be the key to a good cocktail. It keeps all the ingredients chilled, and the more you use, the cooler it will be. You should be sure to add the ice into the shaker last, after all the other ingredients, as it may melt if you add it first, which will dilute your drink.
Serve
in Smaller Glasses
Big
glasses warm up quicker than smaller cups and ruin the overall experience of
the cocktail. It’s better to enjoy smaller servings to keep the drink tasting
the best it can.
Shaken?
Stirred?
We
all know how James Bond likes his cocktail made, and largely it is down to
personal preference. However, if you like your drink well chilled, then shaking
it thoroughly is a sure way to ensure that every ingredient is well and truly
chilly!
Shaking is also essential when your cocktail includes an ingredient like cream, as a firmer shake will be required to completely mix all of the ingredients.
Use
Fresh Juice
Freshly
squeezed juice offers a rich, fresh and vibrant flavour for cocktails that just
isn’t matched by boxed juices. Either squeeze the fruit yourself or use a
quality juice from the fresh juice section!
Save
Sparkling till Last
If your cocktail calls for a splash of something sparkling, like soda or sparkling wine, then make sure you only add it in at the last second. You don’t want to be adding these fizzy ingredients to your shaker to be mixed up, as this will just make them flat.
Use
an Aromatic Garnish
While
all garnishes can add a little something extra to your cocktail from an
aesthetic point of view, only aromatic garnishes will help to enhance the
flavour experience of the drink.
Add
a little mint, lemon zest or sprig of rosemary to add an extra level of flavour
and aroma to your cocktail to really enhance it.
Do
you have any tips for crafting cocktails at home? If so, why not leave a
comment below with your suggestions!
Guide to Japanese Alcoholic Beverages
19 February 2020 by Ellie
Alcoholic beverages are popular in Japan and are enjoyed at the end of a busy workday, for fun, or with a delicious meal. Japan is home to an assortment of drinking establishments, from bars and pubs to izakaya, where you can enjoy tasty treats alongside your drink. We take a look at some of the alcoholic drinks commonly enjoyed in Japan.
Beer
Beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan. In fact, they have a saying in Japan – “toriaezu biru” – meaning “let’s start with beer”. There are a number of different types of Japanese beer, including nama biru (draught beer), a range of craft beers and bin buru, which is half litre bottle of beer which can be shared.
Beer made with less malt, called happoshu, has also been produced in Japan. They are often cheaper beers, due to less taxation from the malt.
Sake
Sake, also known as nihonshu in Japan, is a rice wine, made from rice, water and koji mould. Rice wine is produced by both local producers and major brands throughout Japan. Sake can be drunk either hot or cold, and typically has an alcohol content of 10-20%.
Shochu
Shochu is a distilled spirit made from a fermented mash. Commonly used ingredients for the mash include mugi (barley), sweet potato, sugarcane, rice or buckwheat.
The flavour of this drink is dependent on the ingredient used. For example, mugi shochu is mild, while shochu made with sweet potato tends to be stronger in flavour. Sugarcane shochu offers a sweet taste, whereas buckwheat gives the drink a slightly bitter taste. Shochu can be enjoyed over ice, mixed with other drinks, or warmed.
Whisky
Despite the fact
that Japan has only been producing whisky for around 100 years, the country is
now one of the world leaders in whisky production, working on par with some of
the top Scotch distilleries.
Japanese whisky has recently seen a huge surge in demand, and has won a range of accolades, including being named ‘Best Whisky in the World’.
Whisky is commonly
enjoyed as a whisky highball in Japan; whisky served with sparkling water and
ice.
Umeshu is a plum
wine made from Japanese plums called ume. Umeshu can be enjoyed on its own,
mixed with other drinks or served with ice. It has a sweet flavour and smooth
consistency that makes it easily drinkable.
Yuzushu
Yuzushu is a drink reminiscent
of limoncello and is a similar concept to umeshu, but with this alcoholic
beverage made using yuzu. Yuzu is a citrus fruit, a bit like a lemon, and
yuzushu tastes like an alcoholic tangy lemonade. It can be enjoyed mixed, on
its own or over ice.
Japanese Drinking Etiquette
As with many aspects of Japanese culture, there are a number of customs that should be followed when drinking. Firstly, when drinking with others, you must pour their drink before your own. Drinks should be replenished before they are empty, so it is important to keep an eye on each other’s drinks.
When drinking with a meal, you should not take a sip until everyone’s drinks have been served and the glasses have been raised for a toast.
Have you tried any
of these Japanese drinks? If so, which is your favourite? Leave a comment below
to let us know your thoughts on these beverages!
Best Whiskey Bars in Manchester
27 January 2020 by Ellie
The world of whisky can be a complicated one, with flavours, blends and ages all coming into play. Fortunately, the city of Manchester offers the perfect antidote to such confusion; a slew of bars containing clued-up bartenders ready to escort you on a whisky adventure.
Manchester, much like other northern cities such as Newcastle and Liverpool, has a great whisky drinking community, with bars and shops aplenty. Here, we’ll talk you through some of our favourites and why you should be visiting them when you stay in this diverse and vibrant city.
The Whisky Jar
Found tucked away on Tariff Street, The Whisky Jar has a collection that rivals some of the best bars in the UK, with a wide range of Scottish whiskies from a plethora of distilleries, along with American, Japanese and Irish, English, and even Taiwanese and Indian!
Their sips range from £3-£4 all the way up to around £20 for the more desirable, aged drinks.
Whisky is not all that’s on offer at this location either, with regular live music events such as jazz nights on a Monday and frequent open mic nights. The bar also offers whisky tasting and whisky festivals which allow you to try a variety of drinks from their collection.
The Briton’s Protection
An old public house located on Great Bridgewater Street, expect a warm and welcoming, classic city pub when setting foot in the Briton’s Protection. There is a selection of rooms to sit and drink, two with roaring fires during the colder months, perfect for defrosting from the harsh northern weather. Although a fine range of other beverages is available, the whisky collection is the star of the show (just as it should be!).
The bar is seemingly tardis-like, modest from the outside but an elaborate maze of rooms on the inside.
Their whisky collection is over 200 strong, with a collection of old favourites, celebrated news blends and some more exotic flavours thrown in for good measure. The Briton’s Protection is award-winning, and it’s easy to see why when setting foot into the place. When visiting Manchester, this is not one to miss!
The Gas Lamp
The aptly named, underground atmospheric masterpiece that is The Gas Lamp opened in 2010, making a relatively new addition to Manchester’s array of drinking locations. Found on Bridge Street, the whisky catalogue on offer is a sizeable collection of bottles from around the world, mostly made up of well known and well-loved Scottish brands.
There is also a fine selection of beer and gin available for those who aren’t dedicated whisky-drinkers.
With the usual suspects such as Highland, Islay and Speyside all present and correct, the selection then ventures into Japan, Ireland and Sweden, offering the chance to try something a little different. With prices starting at just £4, sips can range up to around £20, for the rarer and more desirable drinks.
Whiskey Down
If you’re looking to make a night of it, then you’ll want to head to Whiskey Down, located on Lloyd Street. Stepping through the doors, you’ll be transported back in time to a James Bond-esque private members club that recalls the great era of the 1970s.
Their whisky collection, although not as sizeable as others on this list, is broad in diversity and prices begin at around £7, and range as high as £40 catering to more experienced drinkers’ tastes. Speaking of tastes, the location bills itself as a ‘superluxe playground’ meaning that you can encounter anything from the beautifully styled games room to a ‘she wants revenge’ room with influence taken from Fifty Shades of Grey.
Lost in Tokyo
As you’d expect with a bar of this name, this location is entirely Japanese in style, offering food, drinks and atmosphere that is influenced by this Asian nation. A stroll down Lever Street, you’ll see Lost in Tokyo, a subtle doorway to a whisky haven, especially for fans of Japanese whisky!
Beers, cocktails and most importantly, whisky are sold here, with a strong range of each to keep you going back to the bar to try something new. A range of music is played, with Thursdays being predominantly alternative, pop-punk and emo, while hip-hop and RnB will be heard on Friday and Saturday. For something a little different, Lost in Tokyo is where you want to go!
If you’re looking for something to tide you over until your next visit to Manchester? Why not check out our range of Scottish, Irish or Japanese whisky for sale on our website? You can also find a great hoard of useful information on whisky drinking on our blog!
Guide to Canadian Whisky
29 November 2019 by Ellie
There are certain countries that are renowned
for their whisky. Scotland and Ireland are massive players in the whisky game,
with America providing some incredible Bourbon and rye whiskies, and Japan
becoming an increasingly popular source of the malt beverage. While you may not
often hear a lot about Canadian whisky in comparison to some of these bigger
whisky-producing areas, there are still some incredible bottles available. We
take a look at what Canada has to offer the whisky world.
What is
Canadian Whisky Like?
The first thing to note is the spelling. While
Canada’s American neighbours like to call the drink ‘whiskey’ with an ‘e’,
Canadian whisky manufacturers have chosen to follow the Scottish in their
naming traditions, spelling it without an ‘e’.
Canadian whisky takes inspiration from both the
classic Scotch and the whiskies produced in the US. For example, like Scottish
whiskies, Canadian whisky can be matured in used barrels, but it can also make
use of a variety of grains, like American whiskies. This allows Canadian whisky
to offer a huge range of flavour; whether created from blended grains or
imparted from the barrels used.
Most Canadian whisky is blended and will use a
range of different grains, such as barley, rye, wheat and corn. Typically, each
grain will be fermented, distilled and matured separately and the combined at
bottling. As such, Canadian whisky manufacturers are able to have a lot of
flexibility in creating whisky flavours, developing the flavour profile at the
blending stage.
For many blended Canadian whiskies, two types
of spirit will be used; base whisky and flavouring whisky. The base whisky will
be high strength, but be light in flavour, making it the perfect ‘base’ for
blending. The flavouring whisky will be quite the opposite; distilled to a
lower strength, but offering stronger flavours. These two types are then
combined to create a balanced and flavourful sip with character and complexity.
Most Canadian whiskies will be produced in a
single distillery, which will make both the single malt and the grain whisky.
Canadian distilleries will typically release a wider range of products than
Scottish whisky producers, simply due to the fact that they are working with a larger
variety of grains! Canadian whiskies will all need to be aged for a minimum of
three years.
Canadian
Rye Whisky
Rye is commonly added to Canadian and American
whiskies to add a hint of spice. Rye is a fairly standard addition to Canadian
whiskies, and as such, are often referred to as ‘rye whiskies’ regardless of
how much rye is in the mix! In fact, Canadian whiskies can even be called ‘Rye
Whisky’ even if it doesn’t actually contain rye! Originally produced as a
flavouring whisky, the popularity of rye in Canada has even led to the creation
of a number of 100 percent rye whiskies.
Popular
Canadian Whisky Brands
There are a variety of different whisky producers and distilleries in Canada, but some of the most popular include Crown Royal, Canadian Club, Forty Creek, Pendleton, Gibson’s and Lot 40. Canadian whisky is the most imported spirit into the United States, and of this, Crown Royal is the most popular. Canadian Club is also a world-renowned whisky brand and is also the only distillery in North America to have been granted a royal warrant, with the beverage receiving warrants from Queen Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI and Elizabeth II. Canadian Club is also renowned for its exciting marketing campaigns which involved hunting for cases of whisky bottles hidden around the world in adventurous locations; some are still out there!
Have you ever tried a Canadian whisky? Whether you prefer Scotch, Bourbon or Japanese whisky in the UK, we’ve got something for everyone here at Havana House. Check out our range of whisky and other alcoholic beverages to find the one for you!
Best Whisky Bars in Glasgow
12 November 2019 by Ellie
Scotland, along with Ireland, is very much the spiritual home of whisky, with the origins dating back roughly 1000 years ago. Travelling monks from Europe brought with them the skills and knowledge required for distillation; however, due to Scotland’s lack of vineyards, the locals fermented grain mash as a substitute. The progress is slow at first, but popularity begins to boom in the 1400s and is noted as ‘aqua vitae’, translating as the ‘water of life’.
Fast forward to the 21st-century and although popularity for the amber liquid has grown exponentially, the core science behind the whisky production has stayed true to its heritage. If you’re planning on taking a sip of aqua vitae in its homeland of Scotland, then Glasgow is a fantastic choice of venue. Here, we take a look at the best whisky bars in the city that are fit for a dram or two.
The Piper Whisky Bar
The award-winning bar located on George Square in the city centre is something of a whisky haven. Stocking whiskies from absolutely every Scottish distillery, they will have something for all tastes and preferences. Glasses can range anywhere from £3 up to a slightly more eye-watering £35, depending on the age and quality of the sip. The bar also hosts public and private tasting events for you to sample a range of whiskies and advance your knowledge of the drink.
Coyote Whisky Bar
You’ll find the Coyote Whisky Bar located on Howard Street at the heart of the city. They like to keep things simple with a strong range of whiskies and an ever-rotating malt of the month, along with regular live music and great atmosphere. If you’re looking for a hipster joint with a flashy interior, this one won’t be for you. But if you want a classic pub with a homely feel, then we’d definitely suggest popping in and giving them a try!
The Pot Still
Boasting a wild collection of over 700 different whiskies, if you’ve got a taste for variety, then this is the place to go! Not only do they offer a fine range of Scotch, but also whiskies from every corner of the globe. Despite being in Scotland, you may fancy a drop of Japanese whisky UK, in which case, the bar staff will happily oblige. You can also grab one of their amazing homemade pies to help soak up the drink, meaning you can stay a little while longer.
The Bon Accord
Looking for a homely pub that offers comfy surroundings? Then look no further than the Bon Accord. Their constant rotation of drinks sees them sell over 800 different ales a year, mostly sourced from the excellent breweries across the UK. They also support a 400-strong whisky collection, ranging from Scottish sourced sips to more exotic drams. The food they offer is traditional, home-cooked classic pub food, with a reasonably priced menu covering most bases.
The Ben Nevis
Having recently hit its 20th birthday, the Ben Nevis is considered one of Glasgow’s best-kept secrets. The Ben Nevis has all the makings of a great and classic pub, with a regular calendar of live music, great selection of beers and ales, and most importantly, plenty of whisky. The bar is located at 1147 Argyle Street and is conveniently located close to the Exhibition Centre train station and the SSE Hydro.
Oran Mor
Jack of all trades Oran Mor, this is not just a bar, but a restaurant and live entertainment venue housed under one roof. Their ever more exciting calendar of live events is underpinned by a well-stocked bar and delightful restaurant. The main whisky bar has a tempting selection of over 280 malts to choose from. You can also pop into the restaurant for a bite to eat, or if you’re happy in your surroundings, choose to have your food in the bar.
Dram!
The clue is really in the name with this one, Dram! is a beautifully kitted out bar with wood panelling and a certain rustic charm. You can find it located towards the west end of Glasgow and the shelves are always stacked with whiskies from Scottish distilleries. Roughly 70 malts are available here alongside a tasty range of locally sourced craft beers. Their main menu is packed with reasonably priced pub food, perfect for making an evening of it.
Which of these will you be visiting during your time in Glasgow? Maybe you discover a hidden gem that we need to know about! Either way, let us know on Facebook and Twitter! In the meantime, why not check out our blog for more tips and articles on whisky!
Best Whisky Bars in Liverpool
24 September 2019 by Ellie
The northern city of Liverpool is one that is known for its heritage and history. In 2008, it held the joint position of being Europe’s capital of culture, sharing the title with Stavanger in Norway. The city of Liverpool and the people that inhabit it haven’t always been on the right side of the media and press; however, even a short trip to the city will quash any reservations you may have previously had. For whisky drinkers and connoisseurs, Liverpool presents a new opportunity to discover drinks and bars that may not have been found otherwise. In this article, we’ll be taking you through some of the finest bars and lounges in the northern city to which we warmly suggest you pay a visit or two.
Mackenzie’s Whisky Bar
Mackenzie’s website proudly shouts that the bar holds over 300 whiskies, and this is evident when stepping through the doors. The bar shelves proudly adorn the not-so-modest collection that ranges from well-aged Scotch to exciting Japanese blends. The bar staff will happily guide you through their catalogue and suggest anything from an old favourite to a challenging new sip. Prices typically start at around £3 and increase according to age and quality. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing dram or you’re thirsty to explore new drinks, Mackenzie’s is a great place to start your whisky journey through Liverpool.
Puffin’ Rooms
Transporting you back in time is Puffin’ Rooms. Located on Liverpool’s Old Hall Street, the lounge and cocktail bar is a great place to spend an evening with family, friends or work colleagues, venturing through their whisky and drinks menu. Every evening, there is live jazz to enjoy while sipping one of the 200 rare whiskies, or one of the many whisky cocktails on offer. There is also a fine array of other drinks such as wines and champagnes, along with a modest menu of food and nibbles. Sunday night is blues night, and across the road, you’ll find a cigar sampling store to pair the fine whisky with a great cigar.
Berry and Rye
Berry and Rye is simultaneously the least and most beautiful whisky bar in Liverpool, perhaps even in the UK. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much, in the sense that it looks like an uninhabited retail unit along Berry Street. No signs or other indicators that it is, in fact, a cavernous whisky haven. Once you have stepped inside, after knocking on the seemingly rotten door to gain entry, the penny begins to drop. The experience and atmosphere will wash over you. You know those secret bookcases you see in films? This is better! The range of drinks is fantastic, offering anything from a cheaper whisky cocktail to an aged gem. Blues music rings out from the walls and you’ll feel immediately at home.
Whisky Business
Owned and run by the same people behind Berry and Rye, Whisky Business is a slightly different affair, taking a more traditional approach. Although they offer tastings for customers and dedicated tasting sessions throughout the month, their main purpose is as a seller. If you’re planning on booking a tasting session, there are three to choose from, ranging from £25 – £50. Each of these consists of 5 drinks finishing with a cocktail. During these, you’ll have a chance to taste whiskies from across the world including Scotland, America and Japan.
Jenny’s Bar
Located on Liverpool’s Fenwick Street is Jenny’s Bar, a beautiful location to enjoy a cocktail or a drop of whisky. Here, you’ll escape the busy streets of Liverpool and be delivered into a world of hushed tones and vintage furniture. The bar staff are experienced in their craft and can offer helpful suggestions of which of the many whiskies you could be drinking that evening. The bar also excels in providing a high-class range of cocktails that incorporate exciting and unique flavours, making them almost too easy to drink. Whether you’re just visiting for the day and fancy a midday dram, or spending the evening out in the city, Jenny’s is a great place to enjoy your drinks.
Philharmonic Dining Rooms
Despite being part of the Nicholson’s chain of pubs and bars, this doesn’t stop the Philhamornic having its own signature style and feel. With a fine array of food and drink to choose from, the pub is a great all-round location, offering good menu selection and something to suit everyone. The whisky on offer here is anything but below par and their collection, along with the quality, makes this a great spot to enjoy a dram or two. You can also do your homework before you arrive by checking out their online whisky library. This has been split into sweet, smoky, spicy and fruity, with a special section for new arrivals.
For more articles on whisky, including the best whisky bars in London, check out our blog! You can also find a prime selection of the amber liquid on our website, so whether you’re looking for Irish, Scotch or Japanese Whisky, UK, our catalogue will more than satisfy.
Best Whisky Bars in London
15 August 2019 by Ellie
Being the UK’s largest city, and the capital of England, London should, in theory, have a wealth of fantastic whisky bars. Well, we’re pleased to report that this is, in fact, true; there are innumerable worthwhile establishments that will happily serve you all manor of this golden liquid. Often, the most difficult part is choosing the whisky you drink!
To make your foray into London’s whisky drinking territory a little easier to navigate, we’ve put together some of our favourite bars, pubs and lounges. All will offer a fine range of whisky and will more than satisfy your appetite for a dram. Take a look through and make sure to pop in on your next visit to the capital.
Black Rock
For a refined, experienced and well-educated whisky drinking experience, Black Rock will tick all boxes. Offering a unique take on a whisky bar, they don’t employ the typical ‘bartender behind the bar’ approach. Instead, they let their guests roam the open floor and choose their beverage from a selection of well-stocked cabinets.
The centrepiece of the room is the half oak tree, sliced length-ways to offer a long glass-topped table. The tree also doubles as a whisky river, with two streams of the amber liquid flowing from top to bottom which can be served at the end. Although the intensity of the bar may be off-putting for the less-experienced whisky drinkers, for the connoisseur, it is heaven.
Boisdale of Canary Wharf
For a taste of the Highlands while in the South East, there is no better place than Boisdale of Canary Wharf. Their whisky menu is laid out in an epic 90-page document available on their website and in the bar, detailing their range of Scotch and information on each of the distilleries. For those who like to understand the source of their dram, this will be a dream come true!
They also have live music on most evenings, which is a perfect accompaniment to a great tasting beverage. However, we would suggest booking as the place can get pretty busy!
Bull in a China Shop
Packing a serious punch with a range of premium whiskies, this Shoreditch bar will tantalise the taste buds of even the most experienced connoisseur. Although their whisky selection isn’t the most comprehensive, their focus on quality over quantity warrants them a place on our list. With a range of Japanese, Scotch and other whiskies available, you’ll have no trouble finding your perfect drink.
They also host regular events ranging from screening the final of Love Island to hosting a whisky and vinyl pairing session. Their evening food menu is relatively restrained but should have something for everyone. A great bar that definitely is worth a visit.
Soho Whisky Club
For those who are a diehard fan of the drink, the Soho Whisky Club will be your reward. As the name ‘club’ suggests, this is a members-only affair through which you’ll gain access to a seemingly endless library of bottles to try. But don’t be fooled into thinking this is some ‘open to all’ scheme. Applicants will be invited to an interview before being allowed the join the club, meaning if you’re lucky enough to join, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with other connoisseurs. Bear in mind; you’ll have to stump up £250 for the privilege.
Merchant House
Not only is their whisky collection something to be marvelled at, but they also offer a staggering range of gins and rums. With over 600 varieties of whisky available, there will be something to suit all budgets and tastes. Additionally, their masterclasses will help to illuminate the history and the heritage behind your favourite beverages.
Their staff are well trained and educated in the world of alcoholic spirits, which means you can enjoy your drink while discussing whisky with the house experts.
The Britannia
If you’re looking to stop off somewhere a little less harsh on the wallet, step into the world of The Britannia on Kipling Street. You’ll be welcomed with a relaxed atmosphere and hearty selection of whiskies available. Prices tend to be a little more reasonable with many doubles ranging around the £5 – £10 mark. They also offer a fine ‘Malt of the Month’ which can introduce you to something new.
To keep your whisky appetite in check when you’re not in the city, why not check out our range of Scotch, Irish and Japanese Whisky for sale? We also have a blog jam-packed with information and tips on how to get the most from your whisky.
Guide for Choosing a Beginners Bottle of Whisky
11 July 2019 by Ellie
Although many alcoholic beverages are typically something you just pick up and drink, without much thought of how or why you’re drinking it, whisky is something that needs much more attention.
The thought process behind choosing and drinking whisky is part of the experience, making sure you maximise your enjoyment from each sip.
Things to Consider
If you’re looking to dip your toe into the pool of whisky drinking for the first time, then there are some considerations you’ll need to take into account before grabbing a bottle and pouring a dram.
Things such as flavour, strength and style will all dictate the drinking experience, so these should be kept in mind when selecting your bottle. In this article, we’ll be diving into what beginners to the whisky world should consider, the various styles of drink available and how to go about selecting your first bottle.
Styles
First and foremost, there are four main styles that whiskies conform to, these are:
Single malt – this is a malt whisky that is typically produced from a single distillery and commonly associated with Scotch.
Blended malt – a whisky made using the malt of various different distilleries and blending them to make one drink.
Single grain – similar to singe malt, but a whisky made from one grain that isn’t malted barley, from one distillery.
Blended whisky – this is the result of blending single malts and grains from various different distilleries.
It’s important to note that although the production method for these whiskies can differ, they do not necessarily affect the flavour. This means you can have a single malt with similar tasting notes to a blended whisky.
Blended Whisky May Be Lower Quality
Although there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styles, ‘typically’, blended whiskies will be of a lower quality of the four, depending on price point etc.
With blended whiskies, the likelihood is that the blender will have used one or more lower quality ingredients (malt/grain) and added in a small amount of high-quality ingredient to balance the flavour. Not all blended whiskies are bad, but typically price will reflect quality: more on that below.
Pricing
As with many things in this world, the price will often dictate the quality. That said, there can be exceptions at either end of the spectrum; either a cheap whisky can be delicious, or an expensive one can be rough.
Overall, pricing is subjective to what you’re looking for from a drink. If you want something to mix with cola or Irn-Bru, then grab a cheap bottle of Jack Daniels and drink away. But, if you’re going to invest in the drinking experience, then something a little better will be required.
Expect to Pay a Little More For Quality
For a beginner bottle of whisky, you could expect to pay up to around £50 for a good blend. We’d also recommend starting with a sweeter drink as this can take away some of the harshness of the whiskey.
An American or Irish whiskey would be a good place to start as these are typically sweeter or fruitier. Our Bulleit Bourbon 10 Year Old (US) is a fantastic option, or you could opt for the Teeling Single Malt Irish Whiskey (Irish).
Flavours
Once you’ve bought your first bottle or two, you should have an idea of what you do and don’t like about the drinks you’ve tried. Maybe one was too smoky? Or too sweet? The likelihood of finding your perfect bottle first time around is pretty slim, so make the most of the experience and enjoy the learning curve.
You Can Adapt the Flavour
The flavour of the whisky is perhaps the most essential aspect, as this is the main reason you will be purchasing a bottle. Flavours can be changed, enhanced or dampened by adding water or ice cubes, so try experimenting with different combinations to find your preferred style.
You can also use different shaped ice cubes to test melting times or use whisky stones to chill the drink without diluting it.
Nose the Drink
Because of the close link between the senses of smell and taste, nosing the drink is an excellent first step. Common flavours found are vanilla, toffee or caramel, as these are imparted when whisky is aged in a barrel.
For Scotch, you can expect anything from smoky leather to fruity notes, so you’ll need to test a few different drinks to find your feet. Equally, Japanese whisky will offer strong fruit notes when nosing, followed by fruity flavours.
Overall, it’s hard to pick specific whiskies for beginners as it really depends on what flavours you’re looking for. If you’re looking to grab one of your first bottles, we have Scotch, Irish, American and Japanese whisky for sale. Or you can check out our blog for more great whisky tips and information.
Best Whisky Bars in Edinburgh
25 June 2019 by Ellie
Scotland is practically synonymous with whisky for all the right reasons. The seemingly endless list of amazing distilleries, both big-name labels and small batch, is enough to make any whisky fan drool. So it’s no surprise really that Edinburgh, Scotland’s second largest city, is home to some of the UK’s most well-stocked and well-reviewed whisky bars. No matter what kind of blend you’re looking for, whether a well-aged whisky or something more modern, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for in these establishments.
When picturing a whisky bar, you may imagine a close and intimate setting, low lighting and a stocked larder of amazing whisky, well, this is Usquabae. This underground gem is certainly not to be missed as the selection of whisky is really quite staggering! They offer a modest menu if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat. But, this place is not built for food, rather, to end the night on a high note as you sample some of Scotland’s finest blends. If you are looking for a more curated experience, then we’d suggest checking out the whisky tasting option as this will allow you to sample some of the finest whiskies they have to offer.
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society takes whisky very seriously. Their location at 28 Queen Street is an establishment to behold. With four storeys containing a restaurant, whisky bar and selection of exclusive members-only lounges that are stocked to the brim with exciting and flavoursome bottles! They hold a steady rotation of events throughout the year, so if you’re planning a visit to the city, we’d suggest checking to see if any coincide with your trip.
The suitably named Haggis and Whisky House located on the cobbles of Cockburn Street is something of a majestic sight to behold. The extensive range of whiskies would be enough to make even the most devout drinker’s eyes water, with over 100 different bottles. You can either pop in during the middle of the day for an afternoon dram, or head there in the evening for some freshly served haggis and a taste of their whisky. Their whisky menu can be seen on the website and ranges from entry level sips to speciality blends, including whiskies from across the world.
Whiski Bar and Restaurant
When a bar is named after the drink they serve, it can’t afford to be anything other than top-notch. Their food menus are equally as appealing with lunch and dinner offering a great range of Scottish inspired classics. There is also an Ardbeg menu which is heavily influenced by the use of Ardbeg whisky in the recipes. Their whisky tasting is a great chance to get an insight into the drinks they offer, with courses ranging from beginners to the most experienced whisky fan.
Part of the ‘a room in…’ chain, Teuchters Landing is a self-described whisky and beer pub that focuses on stocking a wide range of drinks, not just whisky, to suit everyone. The food menu brings a taste of Scotland to the plates they serve, with mentions of haggis across the menu. However, their whisky menu is another thing entirely, offering plenty of reasonably priced drinks along with a few more speciality blends. Teuchters Landing aims to be inclusive, so whether you’re with family, friends, or alone, you’ll be welcome there!
Michael Neave Kitchen and Whisky Bar
For those in search of something for something more opulent, the Michael Neave Kitchen and Whisky Bar will surely deliver. The a la carte menu showcases some of the exquisite dishes they prepare, with high-quality ingredients, while the express lunch menu gives you a chance to sample their cooking while on a tighter budget. Alternatively, the Saturday fixed menu allows you to sample three courses for under £15, a bargain that should not be missed! Having finished your meal, make sure you stick around to try some of the whisky on offer. Their menu offers anything from entry level sips to more refined whiskies depending on your appetite.
If you’re heading to Edinburgh, make sure you head to at least one of these amazing whisky bars! If you’re planning on pairing whisky with a nice cigar, you’ll need to pack your travel humidor to keep your sticks in top condition.
Guide to Whisky and Cheese Pairing
12 June 2019 by Ellie
A classic pairing for wine – certainly – but how well does cheese pair with whisky? With whisky and food pairing recently developing into something of an art, many whisky lovers are agreeing that whisky and cheese is definitely something worth a try! So if you enjoy a snack alongside your evening dram, then this guide is definitely one for you!
Like with pairing wine and cheese, and with pairing whisky and other foods or cigars, you typically want to unite or compliment the flavours present in each element. So a strong, full-bodied whisky will require a hard, smelly or blue cheese, whereas a smoother sip will work best with soft and creamy cheese. You should also consider the salt and fat content of each cheese, as this will impact the way the whisky balances out. Creamier cheeses are likely to have a higher fat content, so will need a whisky with more acidity to keep it balanced.
Scotch
The smoky flavour of Scotch needs a cheesy partner of equal intensity. Stilton and Roquefort are good choices, as the bold flavours of the Scotch can match them, rather than overpower, as it may do with a subtler cheese. While you may think that a smoked cheese would work well with the smokiness of Scotch, think again! They can be a little too similar, rather than complementary, which can make the flavours clash.
Irish Whiskey
Whiskeys produced in Ireland can be lighter, with citrus or vanilla notes, making them a diverse drink that can be paired with either richer or softer cheeses. This makes a rich, yet soft cheese, such as Brie, the ideal choice!
Bourbon
Bourbon tends to hold sweeter notes, with softer caramel and vanilla flavours present in each sip. Because of this, Bourbon tends to pair particularly well with nutty and sharp cheeses such as Manchego or Cheddar.
Rye
Rye whiskey is often full-bodied with hints of spice and earthiness, so it works well with both hard and rich cheeses. Harder cheeses, such as Parmesan, Gouda and Gruyere will work wonderfully with this bolder whiskey. On the other hand, the robust, spicy notes are an excellent match for richer cheeses, like Camembert.
Barrel
As well as the whisky type, other factors will determine a whisky’s flavour. The type of barrel a whisky is matured in has a pretty big impact on some of the flavours that are found within it. For example, if it is aged in a Sherry cask, then it is likely to have some nice fruity flavours, which would pair really well with a goat cheese.
The best way to discover the perfect whisky and cheese pairing is, of course, to get tasting yourself! Your personal preferences will play a big part in what you consider to be the best pairing, so why not try some Scotch whisky – here at Havana House we have an extensive range to get your tasting journey started! What pairing do you think would work well together? Leave a comment below to let us know.
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