The Spirit Whilst Gin has been king for several years, the Welsh public’s gaze is turning to new types of tipple. Llinos Rowlands sheds light on some of the latest alternative autumn-friendly Welsh libations... From our bar in Dolgellau we find customers are keen to sample something different, and provenance is of increasing interest. There’s a huge thirst for change, a variety of options and a desire for local Welsh produce. There’s also much speculation about what the next ‘in-drink’ will be…
Barti Spiced Rum Sometimes described as liquid Christmas cake, Barti Spiced from Pembroke Dock is packed with warm spices and flavours, and is therefore often drunk neat, as well as with the traditional addition of mixers. A quirky addition to its making is the handpicked laver seaweed from the Pembrokeshire coast, which adds savoury notes to this exceptional liquor. This is a drink for cosy autumn evenings, especially savoured by pirates of Pembrokeshire! Tasting Notes: Vanilla and cinnamon aromas with cloves, dried fruits and orange on the palate. Savour with: Ice and a slice of orange or with Llanllyr Source Ginger Ale and a twist of lime.
Celtic Wines Blackberry Liqueur If you’re looking for alternatives to Crème de Cassis then Celtic Country Wines in Henllan, Llandysul has come up trumps. Made with brandy and blackberries, this liqueur is rich and sweet; a delicious addition to an autumn fruit salad. If you like your Kir Royale, it could well be a good celebration drink in the colder months that jazzes up a cheaper fizz nicely.This would be a nice seasonal twist for an autumn wedding – and best of all, it’s Welsh! Tasting Notes: Sweet dark fruit on the nose and a rich blackberry flavour. Savour with: Chilled white wine, or sparkling wine for Kir, or Kir Royale.
www.bartirum.wales
Aerona Liqueur
www.celticwines.co.uk
The Jones family started growing Aronia berries on their farm in Chwilog near Pwllheli as part of an experimental project to grow new crops and plants. This unique drink contains other botanicals grown on the farm, all of which are natural ingredients with no artificial colouring or preservatives. Sometimes called the black chokeberry, it’s rich in antioxidants which may make you feel better about having a snifter! If you’re a Campari lover, then you may well enjoy Aerona, with the same mixers of soda or fresh orange juice on ice. The warmed cranberry and orange juice version is a nice alternative to mulled wine for Halloween or other autumn/winter festivals. Tasting Notes: Juicy berry flavours with a sour touch on the palate. Savour with: Cranberry juice and orange juice gently warmed with added slices of citrus fruit garnish www.aerona.wales
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www.taste-blas.co.uk
