Discover the Isle of Man's Fynoderee Distillery: Unveiling the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum

Nestled in the heart of the Isle of Man, the Fynoderee Distillery has long been celebrated for its commitment to crafting exceptional spirits that capture the essence of the island's rich heritage and natural beauty. 

With an unwavering dedication to quality and innovation, Fynoderee has now introduced a remarkable addition to its repertoire: the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum. This new offering marks the distillery's first foray into the world of cask-aged rums, and it promises to be a game-changer for rum aficionados and spirit enthusiasts alike.

A Nod to Myth and Legend

The name "Glashtyn" is steeped in Manx folklore, drawing inspiration from the mythical water horse known to inhabit the island's rugged coastlines and misty glens. Much like its namesake, the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum is shrouded in an air of mystery and allure, captivating those who seek an extraordinary sensory experience.

Craftsmanship and Tradition

The creation of the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum is a testament to Fynoderee Distillery's meticulous craftsmanship and reverence for tradition. The rum is distilled from the finest molasses, sourced with an emphasis on sustainability and quality. After distillation, the rum embarks on a transformative journey through time as it matures in carefully selected oak casks. These casks, previously used for ageing premium spirits, impart a depth of flavour and complexity that is truly unparalleled.

Tasting Notes

The Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum delights the palate with a symphony of flavours that evolve with each sip. On the nose, one is greeted with enticing aromas of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of tropical fruit. The first taste reveals a harmonious blend of rich toffee, dark chocolate, and dried fruits, underscored by subtle spices and a whisper of oak. The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a warm, satisfying impression that beckons for another taste.

A Celebration of Island Terroir

Fynoderee Distillery's Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum is more than just a spirit; it is a celebration of the Isle of Man's unique terroir. The island's pristine environment, with its bracing sea breezes and temperate climate, plays a crucial role in the rum's maturation process. The result is a spirit that encapsulates the very essence of the Isle of Man, offering a taste that is both authentic and evocative.

The Perfect Addition to Any Collection

For collectors and connoisseurs, the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum represents a must-have addition to any well-curated spirits collection. Its distinctive character and limited availability make it a coveted treasure for those who appreciate the artistry and passion that goes into crafting a truly exceptional rum.

Join the Fynoderee Family

Fynoderee Distillery invites you to join them in celebrating the launch of the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum. Whether you're a seasoned rum enthusiast or simply looking to expand your palate, this new release offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the magic of the Isle of Man in every glass. Visit the distillery, explore their range of spirits, and discover the stories that make Fynoderee a beacon of Manx tradition and innovation.

In conclusion, the Glashtyn Cask-Aged Rum is a testament to Fynoderee Distillery's unwavering commitment to excellence. It embodies the spirit of the Isle of Man, bringing together myth, tradition, and craftsmanship in a bottle. Don't miss the chance to savour this extraordinary rum and become a part of the Fynoderee legacy. Cheers to new beginnings and the timeless allure of the Glashtyn!

https://fynoderee.com/en-gb

Unveiling Hidden Gems: Low-Priced British Supermarket Own Brand Spirits That Are Worth Buying

In the world of spirits, there's often a misconception that quality comes with a hefty price tag. However, British supermarkets have been quietly challenging this notion with their own-brand spirits, offering remarkable quality at affordable prices.

These hidden gems not only cater to budget-conscious consumers but also surprise enthusiasts with their exceptional taste profiles. Let's embark on a journey through the aisles of British supermarkets to discover the low-priced own-brand spirits that are truly worth buying.

1. Tesco: Tesco Finest Blended Scotch Whisky

Starting our exploration with Tesco, their Finest Blended Scotch Whisky stands out as a remarkable choice. Crafted with a blend of malt and grain whiskies, this spirit boasts a smooth and rich flavor profile with hints of oak and caramel. Perfect for sipping neat or mixing into cocktails, it offers an unparalleled value for its price.

2. Sainsbury's: Sainsbury's London Dry Gin

Sainsbury's London Dry Gin is a true testament to the quality found in own-brand spirits. This classic gin delivers a refreshing burst of juniper alongside citrus and herbal notes. Whether enjoyed in a classic G&T or as the base for a variety of cocktails, this gin offers exceptional versatility without breaking the bank.

3. Asda: Asda Extra Special Triple Distilled Vodka

For vodka enthusiasts, Asda's Extra Special Triple Distilled Vodka is a must-try. Distilled three times for purity and smoothness, this vodka boasts a clean and crisp taste with subtle hints of sweetness. Whether enjoyed on the rocks or as the foundation for your favourite vodka cocktails, it offers a premium drinking experience at an unbeatable price.

4. Morrisons: Morrisons Signature Blended Scotch Whisky

Morrisons Signature Blended Scotch Whisky is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Crafted using a blend of malt and grain whiskies, this spirit offers a complex flavour profile with notes of oak, caramel, and a subtle hint of spice. Whether savored neat or mixed into your favorite whisky cocktails, it delivers an impressive drinking experience that belies its affordable price tag. (I must say this personally that I love this Scotch.)

5. Aldi: Aldi Oliver Cromwell London Dry Gin

Aldi's Oliver Cromwell London Dry Gin has gained quite a reputation for its exceptional quality and unbeatable price. This award-winning gin offers a classic juniper-forward profile with citrus undertones, making it a versatile option for cocktails or a refreshing G&T. With its premium taste at a fraction of the cost of other brands, it's no wonder this gin has become a favourite among budget-savvy consumers.

In conclusion, the world of spirits is filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, and British supermarkets are no exception. From Tesco's Finest Blended Scotch Whisky to Aldi's Oliver Cromwell London Dry Gin, these low-priced own-brand spirits offer exceptional quality and value. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur, gin enthusiast, or vodka aficionado, there's a hidden gem waiting for you on the shelves of your local supermarket. Also, look out for own brand rums, brandies and liquors. 

So why not embark on a tasting journey and uncover your new favorite spirit without breaking the bank? Cheers to quality and affordability!

Speciality Brands Expands Rum Portfolio With Takamaka from the Seychelles

Most people aren't aware that the Seychelles produces rum. But it's the job of Speciality Blends to challenge this lack of knowledge. 

Tags: Rum

Because premium spirits distributor Specialty Brands is adding Seychelles' Takamaka to its already highly impressive stellar rum portfolio. 

Taking over from Highball Brands, the company will be exclusively responsible for all UK commercial and marketing activities for the rum starting form next month, 1st March 2024, to be precise.

Founded over two decades ago by brothers Bernard and Richard d'Offay, Takamaka aims to put Seychelles on the UK rum map. 

Joining the likes of iconic brands including Hampden, Black Tot, Clairin and Renegade, Takamaka will expand Speciality Brands' portfolio with its two award-winning ranges. 

The Seychelles Series offers easy-drinking,approachable rums, ideal for use in cocktails, whilst the St André Series blends Takamaka's creole soul with innovative rum-making technique and is aimed at seasoned and experienced rum aficionados.

Remarks Bernard d'Offay, Co-founder and Export Director: “We're really incredibly excited about this next stage in our development and we can't thank Highball enough for everything they have done in terms of building the brand. Fabrice and the team have allowed us to achieve great presence at some of the UK's greatest bars and restaurants and we wish them every future success.

"As we join Speciality Brands, their category expertise, market reach and the scale of opportunities  they present to Takamaka will be key in the next step of our journey. We're looking forward to driving Seychelles rum and achieving our full potential in the UK with their knowledgeable and passionate team.”

Chris Seale, Managing Director of Speciality Brands, says: “The breadth of our rum portfolio is unique in the UK and we are thrilled to be strengthening it with the addition of Takamaka. 

"We are extremely passionate about high-quality spirits with compelling stories. Takamaka's fresh approach to rum presents an exciting new challenge for our team. We can't wait to get stuck in and spread the word about Seychelles rum in the UK”. 

Fabrice Limon, Founder of Highball Brands commented: “We wish Chris and the Speciality Brands team all the best in continuing and building on the success Highball Brands has had over the last six years with Takamaka. 

"Launching the brand here in the UK and growing it into one of the most recognised brands, loved and used up and down the country and in some of the UK's and worlds best bars, we couldn't be prouder of what we achieved. It's been a genuine pleasure working with the brothers Ben and Richard D'Offay and I personally wish them all the success and happiness.“

To discover the Takamaka range and for any trade queries, please contact the Speciality Brands sales team: sales@specialitybrands.com or visit specialitybrands.com

Opt for Don Papa Rum Not Rosé This Valentine's Day

Looking for something a little different, a bit more exciting for this Valentine's Day?

Then let the folks at Don Papa Rum help you. Their expert and skilled mixologists are encouraging you to embrace your love language of acts of service and shake up the perfect Don Papa Raspberry Sour cocktail for your loved one on February 14.  

Not keen on Champagne? Want to give rosé a miss this year? Then try this, instead!

Don Papa Raspberry Sour  

Ingredients:  

15ml Raspberry Liqueur  

25ml Lemon Juice  

50ml Don Papa Rum  

1 egg white  

Method:  

Add all ingredients to a shaker and then dry shake for 30 seconds without ice  

Add ice and then shake again until tin is frosty  

Strain into a glass over fresh ice, or into a coupe without ice 

Don Papa Rum is a 7-year aged, small batch rum crafted on the island of Negros in the Philippines. Known for its rich flora, charming fauna, and sugarcane cultivation, this captivating paradise has earned the nickname Sugarlandia – making it the perfect spirit to add a bit of magic to your celebrations.  

To learn more visit https://www.donpaparum.com

There's Only One Pumpkin Spice Drink You'll Need This Month

Apparently there's a really interesting and hot beverage trend this month. And here's how you can put a cocktail spin on it for October. 

Don Papa Rum's Pumpkin Spice Cocktail is simple to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Just shake together the below ingredients and pour into a beautiful glass of your choice: 

45 ml Don Papa Rum 

100 ml Pumpkin Spice creamer 

45 ml coffee liqueur 

Whipped cream, to garnish (Optional) 

Pumpkin Spice mix, to garnish  

Don Papa Rum is the first premium single island rum from the Philippines and their ageing process highlights the original taste of Negros sugar cane. With notes of vanilla, honey and candied fruits, Don Papa Rum is the perfect base for your Pumpkin Spice creation.

https://www.donpaparum.com/

Celebrate National Mai Tai Day With a Don Papa Rum Twist!

I must admit I was totally unaware that it is National Mai Tai Day on August 30th.And Don Papa Rum invites us to celebrate National Mai Tai Day in the traditional Filippino way, with a Don Papa Rum Mai Tai Cocktail.

One of the key points for Don Papa Rum is to help you create great and exceptional,  really memorable moments. A nd what better way to mark this special day than by combining the classic Mai Tai with the rich, smooth flavours of Don Papa Rum with the Manila Jockey Club cocktail?

This spirit-forward twist on a classic seems to slow time down with every sip, delivering layers of bright, fruity notes paired really wonderfully with Don Papa Rum's unmistakable molasses profile.​

INGREDIENTS​

​50ml Don Papa Rum​

25ml Sweet Vermouth​

5ml Luxardo Maraschino​

1 Dash of Angostura Bitters​

1 Dash of Orange Bitters​

GLASSWARE​

​Chilled Cocktail Coupe​

HOW TO MAKE IT

​Combine ingredients in a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir for 15 seconds to chill down the cocktail. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe, and zest with orange oils. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry​ and serve.​ And enjoy, as this looks utterly delicious!

Rum, but Hattiers style

Hattiers is the UK's first B Corp certified rum and it has taken a fresh, exciting look at the traditional art of rum blending with an uncompromising, interesting approach to quality and sustainability.  

Only sourcing fine aged rums from over 25 distilleries worldwide, their versatile and accessible blends consist of carefully selected rums married together along with only pure Dartmoor water.     

Why not explore the Hattiers Rum collection and embark on a flavourful journey that will leave you longing for more?

Here are some cocktails for you to experiment with and enjoy!

The Hattiers Spritz

This cocktail is the epitome of long summer days and sure to impress guests. Aperol and Rum? Don't knock it until you try it!

What you'll need...

50ml Hattiers Egremont Premium Reserve Rum

20ml Aperol Spritz

Grapefruit juice

Lime Juice

Prosecco, Champagne or English sparkling wine

Torched grapefruit and mint to garnish

What to do...

Add Hattiers Egremont rum, Aperol Spritz and a squeeze of lime juice to a highball glass with ice and stir

Top up with equal parts grapefruit juice and prosecco

Garnish with a wedge of torched grapefruit and a sprig of fresh mint

The Casa Surgey

Tom Surgey puts his innovate spin on a Champagne Mojito using Hattiers Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

What you'll need…

14 mint leaves

60ml Hattiers Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

15ml fresh lime juice

10ml sugar syrup

30ml sparkling wine or Champagne

What to do…

Slap the mint leaves in the palm of your hand and add to the bottom of a highball glass. Fill with crushed ice. Add the sugar syrup and fresh lime juice, followed by the rum

Take a bar spoon with a flat bottom and use the disc to churn the mixture. You're looking for a frosting on the outside of the glass so that you know the mix is super cold

Cap with more ice so that the glass is full and the ice glistens on top

Top with sparkling wine or Champagne

Take the mint sprig and clap it between your hands to release the oils so that every sip will be accompanied with the aroma from the mint

Hattiers' Resolute Mule

Singing with spicy ginger and caramel notes, the Resolute Mule is a refreshing cocktail with a twist.

What you'll need…

50ml Hattiers Resolute Navy Strength Rum

Hot ginger beer

Angostura Bitters

Brown sugar

Lime

Iced, crushed ice is best for this recipe

What to do…

Half fill a highball glass with crushed ice

Add a generous squeeze of lime and half a teaspoon of brown sugar

Add 50ml Resolute Navy Strength Rum and stir well

Fill the glass to the top with fresh ice

Top up with hot ginger beer

Add a dash of Angostura Bitters and stir 

Garnish with a wheel of lime

The Hattiers Rum range is available at hattiers.com as well as Waitrose & Partners, Harvey Nichols, Master of Malt, Fortnum & Mason, The Whisky Exchange, Enotria & Coe and Drink Finder. 

Hattiers Rum is justifiably very proud to use no colourants to make their rums look artificially darker and they never add sugar or spice to their blends. They believe rum drinkers should know precisely what they're drinking and as a result all component rums, countries of origin, ages and distillation methods are detailed on the back of each and every bottle.  Premium rums in their range include Egremont Premium Reserve Rum, Eminence Blended Aged White Rum and Resolute Navy Strength Rum.

For further information about Hattiers Rum please visit www.hattiers.com or like and follow Hattiers Rum on Instagram: hattiers_rum and Facebook: HattiersRum.  

Devon's Top Food and Drink Experiences to Enjoy This Summer

Want to learn more about your favourite Devon food and drink, meet the producers, taste their creations, make your own and learn some new skills?

Whatever your favourite tipple or your favourite pastime, there's a masterclass or guided tasting to suit everyone. 

Dip into chocolate making. Explore the spirit world. Get hands-on in the kitchen with some seriously good cookery skills. Dust down and scrub your BBQ and learn how to cook on fire or spend a family day planting seeds and exploring nature.

Food Drink Devon, which has a membership of over 350 food and drink producers, hospitality and retailer members, suggests some of the highlights from Devon for you to enjoy this summer.

For wine lovers

Most, if not all, vineyards will be thrilled and delighted to show you around their small or not-so-small patch of heaven and even give you a guided tasting through their vines and wines.

Huxbear Vineyard which is in Chudleigh offers a walking tour where the owner, Lucy, will talk you through the story of Huxbear, their vineyard calendar and winemaking processes. 

You'll learn heaps in about 90 minutes, followed, of course, by a free tasting. Non-walking tours are also available on request and are suitable for people with limited mobility, so should be accessible to everyone in your family or group.

Torview Vineyard, which isn't very far from Beaworthy, goes a a little bit further as it lets visitors get hands-on during their Winemaking Days. 

They run a Red and a Sparking version and your experience is spread over several days, several months apart, depending, of course,  on the wine type.. This year's Red Winemaking experience is almost sold out, but there's space on the upcoming Sparkling, so do look out for that, if sparkling wine's your thing.

Heron Farm Vineyard close to Honiton runs Vineyard Tours which also take in their impressive orchards, to learn about apple juice making, and their Kitchen Garden and Gin Orchard, topped off with a tasting back at the Heron Farm Kitchen & Café.

Sandridge Barton Wines, home of award-winning Sharpham Wine, close to Stoke Gabriel offers several different varieties of tasting experiences, from a casual self-guided options to in-depth guided tastings and tours for those who want to learn more about the processes they employ in their sustainable vineyard and winery.

Lyme Bay Winery near Axminster offers private guided tasting sessions in their Cellar Door, where you'll be talked through each wine, where the grapes are grown, how it's made and they'll even offer you a few all important wine buying tips. You'll leave for home with Winemaker's Notes on each of the wines you've sampled.

More beautiful vineyards with tours and tasting sessions to visit and experience…

Venn Valley Vineyard, near Barnstaple

Alder Vineyard, near Okehampton

Old Walls Vineyard, near Bishopsteignton

Wishing to delve a little deeper into wine? South West Wine School brings together the best wine educators in the south west to run Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) training courses at Darts Farm, near Topsham. Whether learning about different grapes for the first time or analysing a wine in a blind tasting, South West Wine School will take you on that voyage of discovery.

Beer and cider tours and tastings

Explore the world of brewing and fermenting

Sandford Orchards, near Crediton. You'll be able to look behind the scenes at the Cider Works,which boasts that it is the oldest working cider mill in the country, and see how award-winning Sandford Orchards cider is made. Round off the experience with a Q&A session and a cider tasting flight and pizza included in the price.

Salcombe Brewery If you have a desire to learn about beer and brewing, Salcombe Brewery is the place for you. Take yourself and fellow-beer lovers down to Salcombe Brewery. Their tours include a welcome drink in the Taproom, a tour of the Brewhouse with one of their knowledgeable brewers, who'll be more than happy (hoppy, even? Sorry!) to answer your questions, and you'll finish with a beer flight tasting back in the Taproom.

Other beer and cider tours and tastings to consider…

Hanlons Brewery, Newton St Cyres

Hunts Cider, Stoke Gabriel

Red Rock Brewery, Bishopsteignton

Rum experiences

Learn about the art of blending and rum distilling…

Devon Rum Co. Join the team at their waterside venue in Salcombe for a Rum Tasting Experience, complete with a very welcome drink, behind-the-scenes tour of their Blending House. You'll be able to try your hand at bottling rum, then enjoy an in-depth tasting of their four award-winning artisan rums. Ideal for rum fans and groups of friends to enjoy.

Two Drifters Distillery, near Exeter. Want to see a working rum distillery in action? Two Drifters were the first distillery to make rum from scratch in the UK. They'll fix you a drink, then gibe you a fascinating tour of the carbon-negative distillery. Smell the deliciously tempting scent of the genuine molasses and learn how they turn this high-quality material into finest quality rum. And then, it's a welcome return to the Rum Bar for a tasting flight.

Salcombe Rum School A visit here gives you the wonderful chance to craft your own rum and take it home with you. Learn about distillation and rum production, collect your botanicals, and create your own recipe and your own bottle label. Maybe leave the car at home as at least three rum cocktails feature in this experience!

Other recommended tours and tastings include 

Devon Distillery, Dartington

Hattiers Rum, Mothecombe, South Devon

Gin adventures

Go behind the scenes and make your own signature serve

Quayside Distillery, Exeter Quay. Join the gin experts in the lab for a wonderful 90-minute experience learning about the fundamentals of a well-balanced gin whilst you are learning and creating your own unique gin recipe. Or opt for a 60-minute experience with a master distiller where you'll taste your way through their flagship range.

Salcombe Gin School Take charge of a beautiful mini copper pot still to develop and distil your own 70cl signature bottle. Learn how they produce Salcombe Gin and what it takes to produce a balanced and harmonious gin whilst enjoying a 'Salcombe & Tonic'.

Gotland Gin, Beaworthy This novel experience begins in their outside bar with a G&T or soft drink before heading into the nano-distillery to see how Gotland Gin is produced. Next meet their flock of Gotland sheep and lambs during lambing season, then relax back in the bar and learn all about the botanicals while enjoying a few more tasters.

A few more to explore

Devon Distillery Gin School, Dartington

Sidmouth Gin School

Cocktail time

Time to mix, muddle and shake your way to a great time

Devon Rum Co. Cocktail Masterclass. Head to Salcombe to mix, muddle, and shake your way through a hands-on cocktail making session. You'll take charge of your very own and fully stocked cocktail station, have an introduction to mixology, then make (and drink) up to four unique rum-based cocktails. Might be best to not use your car to visit them!

Devon Cove Cocktail Masterclasses. Perfect for a fun night out with family members or friends or to celebrate a very special occasion. Hosted by an expert mixologist, you'll be able to learn how to make a range of delicious cocktails in the Kingsbridge Tasting Room. Try their award-winning spirits, learn the history of cocktails and play a few games, too!

Bar Buoy 'Cocktail Compass'. A one-off Tour, Talk and Tasting Event at the home of Bar Buoy handcrafted, ready mixed cocktails in Exmouth. Thursday, September 21, 7-9:00pm.

Coffee

Take your barista skills to the next level

Owens Coffee, Ivybridge. Latte Art Essentials Workshop. A two-hour course to awaken your inner barista and take your love of coffee to a higher level. However, it's important to realise that this is not your average coffee class, it's a vital experience that's all about having fun, unleashing your creativity, and elevating your coffee game, too. Several other coffee tasting, brewing and barista courses are on offer at Owens, too.

Learn cookery, fire and baking skills

From learning the right way to chop your onions, to how to cook over coals, to baking  the perfect sourdough

High Grange, Axminister Learn lots to apply in your own garden at this bespoke barbecue school which covers the full gambit of outdoor cookery. At Fire School you'll cover a variety of outdoor fire cooking and barbecue techniques and butchery with chef and food writer, Luke MacKay. Enjoy what you've just cooked, around the big oak table for lunch. Other masterclasses are available too.

Ashburton Cookery School is one of the UK's top cookery schools offering inspirational cookery courses taught by a team of keen and very expert chefs. With over 40 cookery courses to choose from, designed to suit beginners as well as the more advanced home cooks amongst our readers, they'll teach you to cook with imagination, passion and enjoyment… and how to chop an onion properly, too, as we just mentioned!

One Mile Bakery Boudicca Woodland runs One Mile Bakery in Exeter, making and delivering delicious and utterly delightful homemade bread, soups and preserves by bike within one mile of home mile, BUT she also teaches sourdough and other breadmaking classes in her Breadshed Microbakery. Her classes fill up rapidly, so do get in quick!

Sweet treats

Chocolate heaven for big and little ones…

Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium Introduction to Chocolate Making. This lovely workshop session includes a talk on chocolate, learn the entire process of turning a bean into the chocolate you recognise whilst the chocolatier demonstrates how to hand-craft, hand-dip and properly decorate chocolates. They also run a 'Short & Sweet Tutorial' ideal for children and parents.

Salcombe Dairy Chocolate Factory Experience the sights, sounds and aromas of bean-to-bar chocolate being made and packaged onsite thanks to full height glass dividing walls between the factory and the shop.

Flapjackery Barbican Trail Pop into Flapjackery on Southside Street to pick up a free children's trail which takes you around the sights and sounds of Plymouth's historic Barbican. Chocolate treats for children who complete the Barbican Trail.

Growing and foraging

Learn more about working with nature to produce food more sustainably…

The Husbandry School near Ashburton. If you are interested in growing more of the food you eat and wish to do so in a natural, fully sustainable way, then Husbandry Skills courses are ideal for you. Or you'll be able to take your family and spend the day exploring nature and picking great things to eat on the way round.

Taw Valley Microgreens Lunch & Learn, a hands-on introduction to growing your own microgreens. Learn about producing food sustainably, enjoy a tasty lunch, walk in the meadow and return home with a freshly picked microgreen punnet. (That's Food and Drink love growing microgreens in our conservatory.)

The Pig at Combe Dig a little deeper into THE PIG's 'plot to plate' ethos with their free Kitchen Garden tours every last Friday of the month.

Broomhill Estate From photography to foraging, metalwork to music lessons, cookery to art appreciation, Broomhill Estate near Barnstaple is 103 acres of imagination and creativity. Sounds great!

Ebb Tides Seaweed, Sidmouth Seaweed Foraging and Pressing. One-off event on Sunday 17th September 1-5pm

The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth. Sowing with Donkeys. One-off event on Monday, September 18, 3-6pm.

For more information on any of these experiences visit the individual member's website or for information on Food Drink Devon visit www.fooddrinkdevon.co.uk and follow @FoodDrinkDevon on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Worried about driving to and from the venues? Then you might like to check out suitable high quality hotels with the Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association website https://www.devonhotels.com.

(Incidentally, please mention our food and drink blog, That's Food and Drink, when you make a booking at any of the above food and drink venues)

Add an Unforgettable, Finishing Touch to Your Wedding Day by Creating a Bespoke Spirit With Salcombe Distilling Co.

What better way could there be to celebrate your nuptials than with your very own bespoke spirits, created by you and the one you love ready for your wedding day?

Dedicated to craftsmanship and sustainability, the famous Salcombe Distilling Co. is absolutely thrilled to be able to announce the introduction of an exciting opportunity for couples to create their own bespoke spirits, adding a unique and personal touch to their wedding day. 

The award-winning Salcombe Gin School and newly launched Salcombe Rum School provides an immersive and interactive space for couples to craft their very own unique spirit with flavours that reflect their individual tastes and preferences. From seasonal flavours to clever naming conventions, your chosen drink is guaranteed to add a unique layer of personalisation to your big day. 

First, create your bespoke drink.

With expert guidance from the expert, knowledgeable team, you'll both embark on a hands-on journey, taking charge of a beautiful fully-working mini copper pot still to develop and distil your very own 70cl bottle of gin or rum at Salcombe Distilling Co.'s waterside distillery in Salcombe. 

During the experience, you'll be able to unleash your creativity, creating your very own special recipe by choosing from an extensive range of botanicals that are specially and carefully sourced for their quality and uniqueness, or get imaginative and experiment by bringing your own. 

During distillation, couples will be able to sample and refine their unique creation before naming and bottling their specially made and chosen drink. 

The finished product is then presented in a beautifully crafted presentation box, making it an exquisite memento to cherish and share on their wedding day. 

A Gin School lesson is three hours long and are typically available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons at 2pm and Saturday mornings at 10am. Salcombe Rum School runs every Thursday from 2pm-5pm. A Gin or Rum School lesson for two people sharing a still is £160. 

Now, let's get wedding ready.

Ready for your special day? Salcombe Distilling Co. offers a service to distil more of your bespoke gin or rum.  If you're a former guest of the schools, simply visit salcombegin.com and fill out the online form listing your chosen botanicals and quantities noted during your previous Salcombe School visit. 

Salcombe Distilling Co.'s team of expert distillers will then re-create two 70cl bottles of gin or rum (from £95). If you're looking to make your day really special, get in touch with their team to discuss larger quantities.

By choosing Salcombe Distilling Co, you are not only embarking on a truly unique and memorable experience, you can indulge in exceptional quality whilst also supporting their commitment to ocean conservation and a cleaner planet.

For more information about Salcombe Gin School and Salcombe Rum School experiences you can call 01548 288 180, email customerservice@salcombedistilling.com or visit www.salcombegin.com.  

Sensational Summer Cocktails from Hattiers Rum

This summer why not just sit back, relax and enjoy the sunshine (or clouds?) while sipping on a refreshing Hattiers Rum cocktail?

They are certain to put you in a sunny mood, no matter what the weather, Hattiers Rum's Eminence Blended Aged White Rum is the essence of summer and quite simply delightful in cocktails at summer garden parties and picnics, savoured on a balmy summer's evening over ice, or enjoying neat at the poolside. Eminence Blended Aged White Rum is available from hattiers.com, £37.50, 42% ABV, 70cl.

It's the UK's first B Corp certified rum, Hattiers has a fresh take on the traditional art of rum blending with an uncompromising approach to quality and sustainability.  Sourcing fine aged rums from over 25 distilleries around the world, their versatile and accessible blends consist of carefully selected rums married together along with pure Dartmoor water at their Devon blending house and distillery.

With light and attractive soft fruit notes and a vanilla pod, creamy fudge and ripe pineapple aroma, Hattiers' Eminence Blended Aged White Rum is the quintessence of summer.  Crafted using cask rums from Barbados, Australia, Trinidad and Jamaica, this smooth, dry blended aged white rum has a great depth of flavour and character.  With a fruity but not sweet taste, it enjoys a gentle nutty pineapple aftertaste and long cream finish and is perfect enjoyed either neat, with a mixer or to create beautiful summer cocktails such as a Daiquiri and Mojito.

Here are two of Hattiers' favourite summertime cocktails using their delicious Eminence Blended Aged White Rum, which are simple to create at home.

Hattiers Rum - Classic Rum Daiquiri

When it comes to cocktails, Hattiers value tradition and simplicity of the art above all else. That's why they stick to a classic daiquiri recipe using their premium blended aged white rum and just two other ingredients. However, if you wish to add some strawberries, pineapple or even passion fruit to the mix, they won't hold it against you.

What you'll need...

60ml. Hattiers Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

30 ml. Lime juice

15 ml. Sugar syrup

1 lime wedge for garnish

What to do...

Add all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker

Shake vigorously

Strain into a pre-chilled coupe glass

Garnish with the wedge of lime

Hattiers Rum - The Eminence Julep

Rum cocktails don't come much more refreshing than The Eminence Julep.  A Mint Julep is traditionally a bourbon cocktail best known for being the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby, but with Hattiers' rum twist, it shouldn't be reserved for just one day of the year!

What you'll need...

60ml Hattiers Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

1 Lime

A large handful of Mint Leaves

½ oz sugar or simple syrup

What to do...

Press a handful of mint leaves in a julep cup or glass with ¼ oz sugar or simple syrup. You don't need to muddle, just press

Add the remaining ¼ oz simple syrup or sugar and 60ml Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

Fill your glass with crushed ice, forming a mound on top

Finish with a lime and mint garnish

The Hattiers Rum range is available at hattiers.com as well as Waitrose & Partners, Harvey Nichols, Master of Malt, Fortnum & Mason, The Whisky Exchange, Enotria & Coe and Drink Finder. 

Hattiers Rum is immensely proud to steadfastly refuse to use any colourants to make their rums appear darker and don't add sugar to their blends.  They believe people should know what they're drinking, and therefore all component rums, countries of origin, age and distillation methods are detailed on the back label of each and every bottle.  Other premium rums in their range include Egremont Premium Reserve Rum and Resolute Navy Strength Rum.

For further information about Hattiers Rum please visit www.hattiers.com or like and follow Hattiers Rum on Instagram: hattiers_rum and Facebook: HattiersRum. 

New from Salcombe Rum. New peppered black run, Blackstone

It's exceptionally smooth and brimming with the flavours of caramelised orange peel, pink peppercorns and warmth from Szechuan pepper, Salcombe Rum 'Blackstone', a peppered black rum, joins Salcombe Rum's portfolio as their fourth release.  

Lovingly handcrafted at Salcombe Distilling Co.'s stunning waterside home in South Devon, the sophisticated new small batch spirit is a single estate rum produced from scratch at the distillery. 

Available in a 50cl bottle, RRP £40 (ABV 40%), Salcombe Rum 'Blackstone' can be purchased from salcombegin.com and Salcombe Distilling Co.'s flagship stores in Salcombe and Dartmouth as well as regional independent retailers.

With a beautiful balance and tantalising spectrum of flavours, Salcombe Rum 'Blackstone' is triple distilled at Salcombe Distilling Co.'s distillery on Island Street in Salcombe, one of the world's very few distilleries directly accessible by boat.  

Distiller Harry Wakeley begins the production process with four ingredients: imported molasses, demerara sugar, yeast and pure Dartmoor water.  The fermentation process is a labour of love, taking approximately one month to produce the rum wash which is approximately 12% ABV.  It's this unrushed process which delivers the complex flavours and forms an absolutely exquisite rum base. 

The second stage is the first distillation run on Salcombe Distilling Co.'s flame fired 60L copper pot stills to produce the low wines. The still is then recharged and they collect the heart of the spirit before switching to the tails. The resulting rum distillate is approximately 76% ABV at this second distillation stage.

The third distillation run makes use of a reflux column to further smooth out the spirit.  Seven botanicals are added in the third distillation run which, with the additional copper contact, produces an exceptionally smooth spirit with light and delicate notes and an increased ABV of 80%.  

On completion of the distillation process, the rum distillate is reduced to 40% ABV using purified Dartmoor sourced water, before Black Strap Molasses and peppercorns are steeped overnight, to produce an exceptional smooth and rounded rum with a delicate level of spice, citrus and balanced natural sweetness.

Salcombe Rum 'Blackstone' joins Salcombe Distilling Co.'s award-winning line-up of their transatlantic spiced gold rum Salcombe Rum 'Island Street', gold rum Salcombe Rum 'Lantern Rock' and Salcombe Rum's only white rum, Salcombe Rum 'Whitestrand'. Unlike many distillers, Salcombe Rum never darkens their rums with the addition of colourants or added sugar post the distillation process.

Salcombe Rum takes inspiration from Salcombe's coastal vitality and its shipbuilding heritage, when they are crafting their spirits.  Famous for carrying fresh fruits and spices back from exotic lands, the locally built 19th century Salcombe Fruiters often ventured to the West Indies to acquire a much sweeter and more potent payload; sugar, molasses and rum.  

In the tropical Caribbean heat, puncheons or hogsheads of this rich spirit were carefully stowed on board these ships and surrounded by coconuts to protect the precious cargo during their perilous journey back across the Atlantic.

Salcombe Distilling Co.'s portfolio, in addition to Salcombe Rum, also boasts Salcombe Gin 'Start Point', 'Rosé Sainte Marie', the Voyager Series and New London Light non-alcoholic spirits and aperitifs. 

For further information about Salcombe Distilling Co. and Salcombe Rum, visit www.salcombedistilling.com, and to stay up to date follow SalcombeGin on Instagram.

For more information or images, please contact RAW PR:

Nose. What you'll smell- Sweet liquorice, treacle tart, spiced citrus, toasted brioche and green under ripe bananas followed by a hint of mango.

Palate. What you'll taste - A rich and viscous mouthfeel leading to caramelised orange peel, pink peppercorns and warmth from Szechuan pepper, with a fresh floral note to finish.

Finish. What it's like at the end- Mid length, with warming spice balanced with candied ginger fading to Werther's Original and a touch of smoked citrus.

Serving Suggestion - It's best served with a fiery ginger beer.  Alternatively, to truly appreciate the rum, try it with ginger ale so as not to over power the flavours in the spirit.

Introducing Temple Island Rum from the Award-Winning Henley Distillery

This May, the award-winning Henley Distillery will launch its brand new Temple Island Rum. The architect behind England's Best London Dry Gin is now expanding his repertoire to rum and has created a trio of delicious flavours: white, coffee and spiced. 

The small-batch, artisan rums will be available in 50cl and 20cl and each bottle will be hand-filled, hand-labelled and carefully sealed with pride.

Jacob Wilson, co-owner of The Henley Distillery and one of the youngest Master Distillers in the UK, has crafted his rums by blending the very best rums from the Caribbean islands made from sugar cane and molasses before redistilling to enhance and impart new flavours and spices. The spirit is re-distilled in copper alembic stills over open flames, finely controlled by Wilson, to give it a remarkably smooth finish.

Commenting ahead of the launch, Wilson said: “I'm thrilled with all three of the Temple Island Rums, they offer rum fans (and hopefully some converts too) something very special. New product and recipe development is the best part of my job as a Master Distiller and I relish having the creative freedom to push boundaries whilst sticking to my belief in the quality of small batch production. Having been born and bred in Henley on Thames, Temple Island is an affectionate nod to my hometown. It is the closest island to the Distillery and a prominent sight at the start of the Henley Royal Regatta course, with rowing a favourite pastime of mine.” 

Temple Island White Rum

This classic Caribbean white rum has been distilled with Tonka bean and vanilla, then infused with even more vanilla for an exceptionally buttery smooth finish. 

Perfect serve:  a versatile spirit, it pairs perfectly with cola, ginger ale or ginger beer. Or transport yourself to the Caribbean with a Pina Colada.

Temple Island Coffee Rum

Distilled with coffee beans, cacao nibs and vanilla beans and then blended with homemade caramel and vanilla syrups to sweeten and add a depth of colour, this rum is bursting with flavour.

Perfect serve: neat over ice - drink this chilled with your eyes closed, and you'd be forgiven for thinking it's an Espresso Martini but without the caffeine hit.

Temple Island Spiced Rum

A contemporary twist on a classic Spiced Rum, expect to find notes of cinnamon, ginger and black pepper along with soft notes of vanilla and caramel to round out the palate.

Perfect Serve: enjoy neat over ice or with classic pairings of cola, ginger ale or ginger beer. Or a great addition to spice up a Daiquiri or Mojito.

PRICE: The Temple Island Rums will launch on 12 May (pre-order available soon) and will be priced at £35 (RRP) for the 50cl bottle and £15 (RRP) for the 20cl bottle. 

For more information on The Henley Distillery, visit www.thehenleydistillery.co.uk or call 07511 208490.

Room for rum lovers on Valentine's Day with Hattiers Rum

B Corp certified Hattiers Rum is offering the ideal perfect gifts for rum lovers this Valentine's Day. With exceptional International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) winning Eminence Blended Aged White Rum, Egremont Premium Reserve Rum or Resolute Navy Strength Rum, they have the absolutely perfect present for lovers of fine spirits.

Eminence Blended Aged White Rum

With light and attractive soft fruit notes and a vanilla pod, creamy fudge and ripe pineapple aroma, Eminence has been carefully carbon filtered to remove the colour while maintaining the impact of the barrel.  This smooth, light-medium bodied, dry blended aged white rum has a great depth of flavour and character.  

With a taste that's nicely fruity but not sweet, it enjoys a gentle nutty pineapple aftertaste and long creamy finish.  

It's ideal enjoyed either neat, with a mixer or in cocktails like a Daiquiri or Mojito.  Eminence has twice been awarded accolades at the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC).  £37.50, 42% ABV, 70cl.

Egremont Premium Reserve Rum

A delightful premium sipping rum, Egremont is a blend of four cask aged rums hand picked from across the Caribbean and Central America and gently paired with pure soft spring water from the Dartmoor hills.  

Filtered by layer upon layer of ancient granite, Dartmoor spring water balances the alcoholic strength of the base rums to a more accessible level, giving Hattiers Rums' a long and creamy finish.  A fragrant, medium bodied rum that's complex yet accessible, Egremont is superb enjoyed neat, over ice or used in cocktails such as Breakfast Old Fashioned.  £42.00, 40% ABV, 70 cl.

Resolute Navy Strength Rum

A blended aged navy strength rum, made using rums from Barbados, Australia, Guyana and Jamaica,  Hattiers' Resolute Navy Strength Rum has a toasted brown sugar and charred oak aroma followed by warm banana.  On the palate it has an intensity of fruit with pineapple, apple, banana, mango and a buttery pastry taste with darker notes of liquorice which linger.  Wafts of coal smoke drift in on the finish, with a dominance of banana cream.  £56.00, 54.5% ABV, 70cl.

Eminence, Egremont and Resolute are all available from hattiers.com as well as Waitrose & Partners, Harvey Nichols, Master of Malt, Fortnum & Mason, The Whisky Exchange, Enotria & Coe and Drink Finder.

http://hattiers.com