Thirst quenchers, slow sippers and all things beverage related.
GARDEN PARTY
French distillery Citadelle has added Jardin d’été to its core range, a gin that heroes all things floral and bright. “We created Citadelle Jardin d’été pairing melon flesh and whole lemon with zests of yuzu and sweet orange,” says Founder Alexandre Gabriel. The gin sees the fruits combined with 19 signature botanicals, resulting in a juniper forward spirit that’s perfect for a gin and tonic. Available from First Choice Liquor for $78.
SAY FUJI
Fuji Single Grain whiskey from Mt. Fuji Distillery has arrived in Australia courtesy of Vanguard Luxury Brands. Fuji Single Grain is a blend of three types of grain whiskey each distilled according to different methods 234 feet above sea level in Japan. Fuji is multilayered with aromas of baked fruits plus hints of white grape and orange zest. “We have been building a library of world-class whiskies for decades and are excited to be sharing this with Australia,” says Master Distiller and Blender Jota Tanaka. Available at good liquor stores for $180.
IT’S A YES
Yes You Can Drinks is a new player in the no-alcohol market, with its debut range covering three ready-to-drink products. The Spritz combines orange and rhubarb with a herbal base, with the Dark & Stormy replicating the classic cocktail’s citrus and ginger flavour profile. The G&T generates a warming sensation identical to the original thanks to a signature botanical blend. The team developed the drinks over a 12-month period and recently snagged several awards at the London Spirits Competition.
POP A BOTTLE
Bandini Prosecco is made in Northern Italy according to Denominazione di Origine Controllata guidelines, which means you know it’s going to be good. Bandini Extra Dry DOC NV ($24) has notes of peach and green apple along with citrus and wisteria, with the Rose Brut ($26) iteration featuring red berries, pear and citrus. The wines can be chilled and enjoyed as is or mixed into a spritz — it’s bartender’s choice.
THREE’S COMPANY
Australian winery St Hugo has introduced the Single Vineyard Collection — an expansion of the maker’s fine wine range. The line-up includes the 2018 Barossa Valley Fabel and 2016 Barossa Valley Koch Shiraz as well as the 2018 Coonawarra Flint Cabernet Sauvignon. “They’re a true representation of where the grapes are grown; be it the soil, the aspect or the phenomenal age of the vines,” says Chief Winemaker Peter Munro. “Each vineyard tells its own story.”
