Exploring the World of Cola Drinks in the UK

Cola is one of the most iconic soft drinks globally, and the UK is no exception when it comes to its love for this fizzy favourite. While the term “cola” often conjures images of major international brands, the UK market offers a delightful variety of cola drinks that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. 

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of cola drinks available in the UK.

1. Classic Colas

Classic colas are the most widely recognised and consumed type of cola. These drinks typically feature a sweet, caramelised flavour with a hint of spice and citrus. The leading brands in this category include:

Coca-Cola: A household name, Coca-Cola offers its classic original formula, as well as variants like Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar.

Pepsi: Another global favourite, Pepsi is known for its slightly sweeter taste compared to Coca-Cola. The brand also offers Pepsi Max and Diet Pepsi as low-sugar options.

2. Craft and Artisan Colas

For those seeking something a bit different, the UK boasts a growing market for craft and artisan colas. These drinks are often made with natural ingredients, unique flavour profiles, and less sugar. Notable examples include:

Fentimans Curiosity Cola: A botanically brewed cola with a complex, slightly spiced flavour.

Dalston’s Cola: Made with real cola nut extract and natural ingredients, this London-based brand offers a refreshing alternative.

3. Sugar-Free and Low-Calorie Options, caffeine free colas

With increasing awareness of health and wellness, sugar-free and low-calorie colas have become highly popular. These options provide the same cola experience without the added sugar:

Coca-Cola Zero Sugar: A sugar-free version of the classic Coca-Cola taste.

Pepsi Max: Known for its bold taste and zero sugar.

Caffeine free colas are now available.

Virgin Cola Zero: A lesser-known but noteworthy choice in the UK market.

4. Flavoured Colas

Flavoured colas add a twist to the traditional cola base by incorporating additional flavours such as cherry, vanilla, or lime. These variations appeal to those who enjoy experimenting with their soft drinks:

Cherry Coke: A popular variant with a sweet cherry flavour.

Pepsi Wild Cherry: Pepsi’s take on the cherry-flavoured cola.

Vanilla Coke: A creamy and smooth twist on the classic cola taste.

5. Diet and Niche Colas

Beyond mainstream and craft options, the UK market also caters to niche preferences, including organic and vegan-friendly colas:

Whole Earth Organic Cola: An organic cola made with natural ingredients and no artificial sweeteners.

Karma Cola: A fair-trade and organic cola that supports ethical sourcing and sustainability.

6. Own-Brand Colas

Supermarkets across the UK offer their own cola drinks, often at a more affordable price point. While these might lack the brand prestige of larger names, they’re a practical choice for many households:

Tesco Cola: Available in regular, diet, and sugar-free versions.

Sainsbury’s Cola: Known for its balanced flavour and budget-friendly pricing.

Aldi’s Vive Cola: A popular choice among bargain hunters.

Morrison's Cola: Another option to consider

Lidl: Freeway Colas, with or without sugar are another bargain drink.

Final Thoughts

The cola market in the UK is as diverse as it is vibrant. From classic global brands to craft beverages and niche options, there’s a cola for everyone. 

Whether you’re a fan of the timeless classics or eager to try something new and innovative, the UK’s cola offerings ensure you’ll never run out of choices. So why not explore the fizzy world of cola and discover your new favourite today?

Share the Sparkle, but Not the Headache with Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly, Now Available in the Perfect Sharing Size

Are you hosting a special celebration? A graduation party? A barbecue? A lovely summer picnic? Or just kicking back and relaxing with family or friends, then we have some special news for you.

You need to get in some bottles of delicious Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly.  Available from the end of this month, June, in a exclusive new sharing 74cl bottle, Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly can be ordered from luscombe.co.uk in a case of 6 x 74cl bottles, £24.00 with free UK delivery on all orders over £60. 

It;'s the perfect summer indulgence, adding an extra layer of elegance to any occasion.  And Luscombe has been warded a highly prestigious Royal Warrant in recognition of their products which are enjoyed by the Royal Households, 

What are the ingredients of this drink? It combines Damascene Rose, juice of Muscat grapes, plus some  Sicilian lemons all carefully mixed with sparkling Dartmoor spring water to create this perfect and guaranteed alcohol free alternative to Champagne. 

Pairs well with canapés, light seafood dishes like scallops and white fish.

For further information on Luscombe Drinks please visit www.luscombe.co.uk, follow Luscombe on TikTok @luscombedrinks, Instagram: @luscombedrinks or 'Like' on Facebook.  

Elevate Your Snacking Game: The Ideal Pairings for Beers, Wines, and Soft Drinks

As we unwind after a long day or gather with friends or family for a casual hangout, there's something undeniably satisfying about the combination of a refreshing beverage and a tasty snack. 

Whether you're sipping on a cold beer, enjoying a glass of wine, or opting for a non-alcoholic soft drink, the right snack can enhance the experience, elevating your taste buds and adding a layer of enjoyment to the moment. 

Join us as we explore the ideal snacks to pair with beers, wines, and soft drinks, ensuring your next gathering is a delicious success.

Pairing with Beers:

Beer aficionados know that the right snack can complement and enhance the flavours of their favourite brew. When it comes to pairing snacks with beers, it's all about finding the perfect balance of flavours and textures. Here are some classic beer and snack pairings to consider:

Pretzels and Beer Cheese: The salty crunch of pretzels perfectly complements the effervescence of beer, while the rich and creamy beer cheese adds a delightful indulgence.

Spicy Wings: For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their beer, spicy wings are an excellent choice. The bold flavors of the wings contrast beautifully with the refreshing qualities of beer, creating a dynamic pairing that's sure to please.

Salted Nuts: Whether it's peanuts, almonds, or cashews, salted nuts are a classic beer snack that never disappoints. The saltiness enhances the flavors of the beer, while the crunchy texture provides a satisfying contrast.

Pairing with Wines:

Wine enthusiasts understand the importance of pairing the right snack with their chosen varietal to enhance the tasting experience. From light and crisp whites to full-bodied reds, here are some delicious snack pairings for your next wine night:

Cheese and Charcuterie: A well-curated cheese and charcuterie board is a timeless companion to a glass of wine. Pair creamy cheeses like brie with a buttery Chardonnay, or opt for aged gouda with a robust red wine for a match made in heaven.

Bruschetta: The fresh flavors of tomatoes, basil, and garlic in bruschetta are the perfect accompaniment to a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the bruschetta, creating a harmonious pairing.

Dark Chocolate: Indulge your sweet tooth while sipping on a glass of red wine by pairing it with dark chocolate. The bitterness of the chocolate complements the fruity notes of the wine, resulting in a decadent and satisfying combination.

Pairing with Soft Drinks:

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of delicious snack options to enjoy alongside your favorite soft drinks. Whether you're sipping on soda, juice, or a refreshing mocktail, here are some tasty pairings to try:

Popcorn: Whether it's classic buttered popcorn or gourmet flavors like caramel or cheese, popcorn is a versatile snack that pairs well with a variety of soft drinks. The light and airy texture of popcorn complements the effervescence of soda, making it a perfect snack for movie nights or casual gatherings.

Veggie Platter with Dip: For a healthier option, a colorful veggie platter paired with hummus or ranch dip is a refreshing choice to enjoy with soft drinks. The crispness of the vegetables provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy dip adds a burst of flavor.

Fruit Skewers: Sweet and refreshing fruit skewers are a delightful pairing with fruit-based soft drinks or sparkling water. Mix and match your favorite fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes for a refreshing and satisfying snack.

Conclusion:

Whether you're indulging in a cold beer, savouring a glass of wine, or enjoying a non-alcoholic soft drink, the right snack can enhance the experience and elevate your taste buds. From classic pairings like pretzels and beer to more sophisticated combinations like cheese and wine, there's a perfect snack for every beverage. 

So, the next time you're planning a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, consider these ideal snack pairings to take your refreshment game to the next level. Cheers to delicious snacks and delightful beverages!

Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer Named 'Drink Product of the Year'

Luscombe has always been renowned for its outstanding ginger beers and now it has been confirmed that they really are the very best of the best. Because Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer has just been named Food Drink Devon's 'Drink Product of the Year' in the 2023 awards. 

Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer is crafted using only the finest organic Peruvian fresh root ginger, milled on site at Luscombe's farm, so it better retains the heat. Blended with organic Sicilian lemons, carbonated Dartmoor spring water and organic passion fruit juice, it's absolutely perfect for those who are looking for something a little bit different, a little bit special. It sits alongside the world famous Luscombe Hot Ginger Beer and Cool Ginger Beer. 

Founder and owner, Gabriel David, is justifiably famed for his pursuit of perfection and no-compromise approach to creating an elegant and multi award-winning range of drinks that use the very finest organic ingredients and Dartmoor spring water.

On winning the award, Gabriel says: “We've always set out to create a range of ginger beers which stand apart from anything else you can drink and this award really does confirm this position. Taste is everything and we feel confident that Luscombe hits a pinnacle in this aspect.”

This incredible organic drink brings together the spice of ginger with the sweetness of passion fruit, offering a luxurious twist on a classic drink. Simply serve over ice, as Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer has already been blended to perfection, and pair with a wide range of foods, both savoury and sweet.

Luscombe is proud to have been the first drinks brand to have gained organic accreditation from the Soil Association and, like all of the drinks in the range, Passionate Ginger Beer contains no artificial additives, sweeteners or concentrates. It's available in a box of 12 x 27cl, for £26.50 from luscombe.co.uk. There's free delivery on all orders over £60.

Awarded a Royal Warrant, Luscombe has produced beautifully crafted drinks on a farm in Devon since 1975. Today, the range includes organic fruit juices, crushes, bubblies, tonic waters and mixers plus a traditional organic Devon cider.  

Food Drink Devon is committed to increasing the county's profile, both nationally and internationally and represents a membership of Devon's leading food and drink producers, speciality retailers, hospitality and catering businesses. 

Through working with like-minded businesses, together they showcase Devon as a county where the use of fantastic quality, seasonal and local produce is standard. The organisation and its members share a commitment to enjoy, inspire and discover more about food and drink. Look out for their green heart logo which is carried by over 350 producers and businesses across Devon. The 2023 awards took place at Sandy Park, the home of Gallagher Premiership Rugby team, Exeter Chiefs. 

From the 300 product entries, all of which were blind-tasted by independent judges, 24 really impressed, including Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer, achieving a faultless score of 100% and a 'Platinum' award. Luscombe Passionate Ginger Beer then went on to be named Food Drink Devon's 'Drink Product of the Year'. 

For further information on Luscombe, please visit www.luscombe.co.uk. Follow Luscombe on Instagram @luscombedrinks or 'like' on Facebook.