Why You Need to Try Fruit Beers and Lagers This Summer

When the sun's out and you're reaching for a refreshing drink, it’s time to think beyond your standard lager or IPA. 

Enter the vibrant world of fruit beers and lagers, a flavourful twist on traditional brews that’s perfect for summer sipping, BBQs, picnics, or simply relaxing in the garden.

Here’s why you should give fruit beers and lagers a go – even if you’ve always thought you were strictly a pale ale or stout person.

1. They’re Surprisingly Refreshing

Fruit beers and lagers often have a lighter body and crisp finish, making them incredibly refreshing. The addition of fruit adds a subtle sweetness or tartness that can cut through the heat and keep your palate dancing. Think lemon, cherry, raspberry, passion fruit, or even mango, perfect flavours to cool down on a warm day.

2. Great for People Who "Don’t Like Beer"

Not everyone enjoys the bitterness of hops, and that’s okay! Fruit beers often have a more accessible flavour profile, appealing to those who usually lean towards ciders, cocktails, or even soft drinks. If you’re trying to get a friend into craft beer, fruit-infused brews are a gentle gateway.

3. They Pair Brilliantly with Food

Fruit lagers and beers are great for pairing with food, especially during summer. A cherry beer with dark chocolate, a citrus lager with grilled chicken, or a berry-flavoured ale with a fresh salad can elevate your meal into a proper culinary experience.

4. Breweries Are Getting Creative

From big names to small independents, brewers are experimenting more than ever with fruit additions. Expect everything from classic Belgian-style krieks (cherry beers) to adventurous watermelon wheat beers or strawberry milkshake IPAs. There’s something for every taste, whether you want sweet, sour, juicy, or tropical.

5. Ideal for Outdoor and Social Drinking

Light, sessionable fruit beers are ideal for garden parties, beer gardens, and festivals. Lower in alcohol than heavier brews, they’re made for sipping over long afternoons with friends.

6. They're Beautiful in the Glass

Let’s not pretend looks don’t matter. Many fruit beers come in stunning shades of pink, red, amber or even purple – a feast for the eyes before you’ve even taken a sip. Garnish with fruit or serve in a chilled glass, and you've got a drink that’s Instagram-ready.

Where to Start

If you're ready to dip your toes into the fruity beer world, here are a few classic and crowd-pleasing options:

Lindemans Kriek (Belgium) – A cherry lambic with a tart, slightly sweet edge.

Tiny Rebel’s Clwb Tropica (Wales) – A tropical fruit IPA bursting with flavour.

Camden Town Strawberry Hells (UK) – A limited-edition twist on their popular lager.

Fruli Strawberry Beer (Belgium) – Smooth, creamy and sweet like strawberry shortcake in a glass.

Wiper and True’s Kaleidoscope with fruit editions (Bristol) – Complex and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Fruit beers and lagers are far more than a gimmick. They’re a legitimate category of craft brewing that brings variety, creativity and excitement to your glass. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just exploring your tastes, trying a fruit-infused beer could surprise you – in the best way possible.

This summer, raise a glass to flavour. Try something fruity. You just might find your new favourite.

Think Pink! Isle of Harris Distillery Unveils 'Sea Thrift Pink' Ceilidh Bottle Inspired by Island Flora

Reflecting the vivid wildflowers that dot the amazing coastlines of Harris, Isle of Harris Distillery is revealing a special limited release of handcrafted ceramic Cèilidh Bottles, presenting the distillery's celebrated gin in a stunning vessel glazed in a vibrant 'Sea Thrift Pink' hue.

Launching at 10am on 16 July to coincide with the first day of HebCelt Festival, just 1,500 handcrafted bottles will be available online in the UK, with a limited number also available within the Distillery's Tarbert shop and the HebCelt festival shop on 16th and 17th July.

The newest pink shade represents the third edition within the annual Cèilidh Bottle series, building on a palette that captures the essence of the island's coastal environment and its rich natural landscape. 

The soft pink glaze takes its cue from the delicate sea thrift which pop up on the shoreline rocks of Harris each summer with abundant 'pom-pom' shaped petals and a sweet nectar which is much-loved by the local bumble bees.

Each ceramic bottle has been hand-thrown by potter Rupert Blamire, in a process that spans months and requires meticulous care, allowing for small variances between each bottle that make each a one-of-a-kind piece of art. The design evokes the signature maritime swirls of the original glass bottle in a medium that can be displayed, refilled or reused for many years to come.

The recommended serve for this release is a Grapefruit Gimlet, a fresh, citrus-forward cocktail that perfectly complements the Isle of Harris Gin's signature maritime notes and serves as a natural match for the bottle's Sea Thrift Pink glaze.

Simon Erlanger, Managing Director of Isle of Harris Distillery, told That's Food and Drink: “We're proud to continue our Cèilidh Bottle tradition with a colour that can be found across our coastlines at this time of year. 

"Sea thrift is a tough little plant with a striking pink bloom, known for its ability to survive harsh conditions and burst back to life each summer, it's a beautiful representation of life on this island for those who proudly call Harris their home.”

The pink Cèilidh Bottle will be debuted at this year's HebCelt Festival which is held annually in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, attracting a global audience as the largest celebration of Celtic music and culture in the Outer Hebrides. 

Following a successful partnership in 2024, the Isle of Harris Distillery will return to the festival with the Isle of Harris Gin Cèilidh Tent, featuring a curated line-up of talented contemporary trad musicians from across Scotland, cèilidh dancing, and a selection of premium 'Cèilidh Cocktails', as well as the distillery's acclaimed Hearach single malt.

At a half-standard 350ml in size, the Harris Cèilidh Bottle is ideal to present and pour, helping to better enjoy an evening among old friends and family. Online orders are presented in a gorgeous box full of colour, embossing and Harris Cèilidh storytelling.

The Sea Thrift Pink Cèilidh Bottle will be available from 10am on Wednesday 16 July at www.harrisdistillery.com within the UK and at the distillery shop in Tarbert for £53 RRP.

Why Beer Might Just Be the Most Natural Rehydration Drink. In Moderation, of Course!

When we think of rehydration, we usually imagine water, electrolyte-packed sports drinks, or perhaps coconut water. 

But what if we told you that beer, yes, beer, could play a role in keeping you refreshed after physical activity or a hot day in the sun?

Before you reach for a pint after your next run, let’s explore why beer, when enjoyed responsibly and in moderation, has some surprising hydrating potential.

Beer: More Than Just a Boozy Treat

Beer is around 90–95% water, and that already makes it a better candidate for hydration than you'd expect. It also contains small amounts of carbohydrates and electrolytes like potassium and sodium, especially in lighter lagers and craft brews brewed without excessive alcohol or sugar.

In fact, the ancient workers who built the pyramids in Egypt were given a type of low-alcohol beer as part of their daily rations. Why? Because it was nourishing, hydrating, and, unlike the local water supply, safe to drink.

Low-Alcohol Beer and Rehydration Studies

Several studies have looked at how beer affects post-exercise rehydration. One Spanish study found that low-alcohol beer (less than 2% ABV) didn’t interfere with hydration and might even work comparably to water after moderate activity. Some athletes even opt for isotonic beers specifically brewed with sports recovery in mind, think of them as a mix between a shandy and a sports drink.

What’s key here is moderation. A full-strength pint (5% ABV or more) might lead to more dehydration than hydration, particularly if you’re already sweating or haven’t had any water.

The Social and Psychological Boost

Beyond the physical benefits, sharing a cold beer after a hike, game, or day at the beach can boost morale and offer psychological relaxation — which is vital for overall well-being. A chilled pint in the pub garden after a long walk isn't just satisfying, it's sociable, grounding, and often part of our wider wellness rituals.

Beer Rehydration: Dos and Don'ts

DO:

Choose beers with lower alcohol content (under 4% is ideal).

Opt for brews with added electrolytes or isotonic properties.

Alternate with water to maintain true hydration. But not fizzy water.

Pair your beer with a salty snack to replace lost sodium.

DON’T:

Rely on beer alone for hydration after intensive exercise.

Use beer as a replacement for water in extreme heat.

Forget that alcohol is a diuretic, more booze means more bathroom trips.

Bottom Line: The Occasional Pint Won’t Hurt

While beer won’t replace your water bottle any time soon, there is a case for its mild rehydration abilities, especially in lower-alcohol formats and when consumed alongside plenty of water.

So next time someone raises an eyebrow at your post-ramble pint, you can tell them: “It’s for the electrolytes!”

Cheers! And remember, everything in moderation!

Multivitamins vs Individual Supplements – What’s Right for You?

Should you take a multivitamin or individual nutrients? We explore both options.

Introduction:

With so many choices, deciding between multivitamins and targeted supplements can be tricky. Here’s how to choose.

Pros of Multivitamins:

Convenient

Cost-effective

Covers nutritional gaps

Pros of Individual Supplements:

Personalised to your needs

Often higher dosages

Better for targeting specific issues

Conclusion:

If you’re generally healthy, a multivitamin may be sufficient. But if you’re addressing a specific concern, targeted supplements may be more effective.

Men’s Health: Top Supplements for Vitality, Prostate and Muscle Support

A guide to natural health supplements for men’s wellbeing.

Introduction:

From energy and libido to muscle and prostate health, these supplements can help men thrive.

1. Zinc – Supports testosterone and immune health.

2. Magnesium – Helps with muscle function and recovery.

3. Saw Palmetto – Promotes prostate health.

4. CoQ10 – Supports heart and stamina.

5. Omega-3 – Reduces inflammation and supports brain health.

Tip: Combine supplements with a balanced lifestyle for optimal results.

Women’s Health: Best Natural Supplements for Hormones and Menopause

Natural remedies for PMS, perimenopause and hormone balance.

Introduction:

Hormones influence everything from mood to metabolism. These supplements offer natural support.

1. Maca Root – Balances hormones and boosts libido.

2. Red Clover – Mimics oestrogen and eases hot flushes.

3. Calcium & Vitamin D – Protect bones in post-menopausal years.

4. Vitamin B6 – Supports mood and hormone regulation.

5. Evening Primrose Oil – May help with PMS and breast tenderness.

Note: Always speak with your GP before starting hormone-related supplements.

Detox and Liver Support Using Herbs and Nutrients

Support your liver and detox naturally with these trusted ingredients.

Introduction:

A sluggish liver can impact skin, digestion and energy. Try these to support detox.

1. Milk Thistle – Classic liver support herb.

2. Dandelion Root – Promotes bile flow and detox.

3. NAC – Boosts glutathione for liver cleansing.

4. Spirulina – Binds toxins and supports immunity.

5. Chlorella – Aids heavy metal detoxification.

Best Use: Combine with lots of water and a clean diet.

Natural Sleep Aids and Mood-Boosting Supplements

Sleep deeper and feel calmer with these natural helpers.

Introduction:

Struggling to relax? These supplements support mental health and sleep quality.

1. Magnesium – Calms the nervous system and improves sleep.

2. L-Theanine – Encourages calm focus and reduces anxiety.

3. Melatonin – A natural sleep hormone (short-term use only).

4. Ashwagandha – Reduces cortisol and improves sleep quality.

5. 5-HTP – May boost serotonin and support restful sleep.

Note: Take most of these 30–60 minutes before bed.

Supplements for Skin, Hair and Nail Health

Radiant skin and strong nails start from within. Here’s what to take.

Introduction:

Looking your best starts with nutrition. These supplements promote glowing skin and shiny hair.

1. Collagen – Improves elasticity and reduces wrinkles.

2. Biotin – Strengthens hair and nails.

3. Zinc – Fights acne and supports skin healing.

4. Vitamin C – Promotes collagen and brightens the complexion.

5. Hyaluronic Acid – Keeps skin hydrated and plump.

Pro Tip: Combine with hydration and a healthy diet for best results.

Vive la Fête! Foods and Drinks to Celebrate Bastille Day in Style

Bastille Day, celebrated every 14th of July, is France’s national day, marking the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. 

Whether you're French, a Francophile, or just looking for a great excuse to indulge in fabulous food and drink, Bastille Day is the perfect opportunity to throw a celebration. Here's how to bring a little joie de vivre to your table with delicious dishes and drinks inspired by the best of French cuisine.

Savoury Stars of the Bastille Day Table

Baguettes and Artisan Breads

You can’t celebrate France without a crusty baguette! Serve it warm with rich French butter, a selection of cheeses, or for mopping up sauces.

French Cheese Board

Put together a cheese board featuring favourites such as Brie de Meaux, Roquefort, Comté, and Camembert. Pair with grapes, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a truly magnifique platter.

Coq au Vin

This slow-cooked dish of chicken, red wine, bacon, and mushrooms is comforting, flavourful, and a real centrepiece for a sit-down Bastille Day dinner.

Quiche Lorraine or Niçoise Salad

Opt for a rustic quiche with smoky lardons and cheese, or a summery Niçoise salad with tuna, olives, and hard-boiled eggs for a lighter bite.

Croque Monsieur/Madame

These toasted ham and cheese sandwiches are easy to make but deliciously indulgent. Add a fried egg on top for a Croque Madame!

Sweet French Treats

Croissants and Pain au Chocolat

Perfect for a Bastille Day breakfast or brunch, these buttery pastries are best served with jam and coffee.

Tarte Tatin or Clafoutis

Tarte Tatin is a caramelised upside-down apple tart, while Clafoutis is a baked custard dotted with cherries. Both are classics and crowd-pleasers.

Macarons and Madeleines

Elegant and colourful, macarons are a lovely addition to any Bastille Day spread. Pair with dainty madeleines for afternoon tea vibes.

Raise a Glass: Drinks to Toast the Day

French Wines

Choose a red Bordeaux, a crisp Sancerre, or a refreshing Rosé from Provence. Champagne, of course, is the ultimate celebratory tipple.

French Beers Although not widely known for their beers there are some decent French beers in most supermarkets these days

Kir Royale

This chic aperitif combines crème de cassis with Champagne for a sparkling toast to liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Citron Pressé

This classic French lemonade is refreshing and perfect for those looking for a non-alcoholic option.

Calvados or Cognac

Round off the evening with a glass of French brandy, ideal for sipping slowly after a big meal.

Tips for Hosting a Bastille Day Party

Decorate with blue, white, and red. Think napkins, bunting, or even flowers in the colours of the French flag.

Play French music. Classic chanson or a bit of Edith Piaf sets the mood beautifully.

Consider a picnic. A Bastille Day celebration in the garden or a local park with French picnic staples can be très charmant.

Bastille Day is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy French culture, cuisine, and company. Whether you’re planning a full feast or a casual gathering, these food and drink ideas will help you celebrate with style et goût.

Bon appétit et joyeux 14 juillet!