August and alcohol made a great combo, our team got to try a range of spirits, wines, beers and RTDs this month and here’s our top picks.
Head out of winter with your cabinet stocked with the best, alongside some delicious cocktail recipes to entertain guests or spice up a date night at home with our guide.
LARGO Clean Lager
We recently had the pleasure of trying LARGO, the new kid on the block in the Australian beer scene (the brainchild of Aussie musicians Oli and Louis, from the Aussie band Lime Cordiale). As massive Lime Cordiale fans, we had high expectations, and let me tell you, they didn’t disappoint. This lager is a total game-changer. It’s light and crisp, with a subtle sweetness that’s incredibly refreshing. But what sets it apart is its commitment to sustainability. As a Climate Active certified beer, LARGO is doing its bit for the planet, and that’s something we can get behind at EDP! It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice taste to make a difference.
10 Years Old Speyside Single Malt Whisky
With the cooler months settling in, there’s something particularly comforting about a well-crafted whisky. This July, I’ve found solace in the 10 Years Old Speyside Single Malt from Tomintoul. Known for its gentle spirit, this whisky captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands. The initial notes of acacia honey and vanilla mingle with a subtle warmth, creating a smooth and inviting prelude. As the spirit unfolds on the palate, flavours of crème caramel and toasted almond dance alongside a refreshing citrus zest. The finish is a lingering embrace of buttery oak and gentle spice. It’s a whisky that offers a comforting warmth on chilly evenings, making it the perfect companion for the last few weeks of winter.
Four Pillars Bloody Pinot Noir Gin 2024
Craving a twist on your usual G&T this winter? Look no further than Four Pillars’ Bloody Pinot Noir Gin. This limited-release beauty just landed for 2024, and it’s a delightful change of pace. The first thing that strikes you is the gorgeous ruby colour, a hint deeper than its Shiraz sibling. As you sip, the juniper notes of the gin mingle with a burst of fresh, juicy fruit – think rhubarb, rose petals, and a touch of strawberry. It’s a truly lovely balance, offering the classic gin bite alongside a layer of sweet fruitiness. I found it particularly refreshing with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of soda, but it also sounds intriguing in a Pinot Colada for a more adventurous twist. Be warned, this is a limited release, so if you’re curious, snap one up before they’re all gone!
Never Never Distilling Co. Carn The Pear Gin
This July, gin lovers can celebrate local heroes and fresh flavours with the limited-edition Carn The Pear Gin from Never Never Distilling Co. This McLaren Vale distillery has partnered with the Port Adelaide Football Club for the second year running to create a gin that’s more than just a spirit – it’s a tribute. The star of the show is the South Australian Williams pear, bursting with juicy sweetness and perfectly balanced by notes of lemon, spice, and a hint of earthiness. The first sip is a delightful surprise, a wave of fresh pear that mingles with subtle wafts of apple and a touch of warming cinnamon. The finish is smooth and lingers pleasantly, leaving you with a hint of cinnamon and that signature pear flavour. While Never Never suggests their signature “Never Pear Us Apart” G&T with a slice of fresh pear, this gin is versatile enough to enjoy in a variety of cocktails or simply savoured neat.
Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
I’ve been curled up by the fireplace with a good book for the last few months and it has resulted in me reaching for Elijah Craig’s Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. This new release is a delightful discovery. The first thing that strikes you is the rich, chestnut colour, hinting at the complexities to come. The aroma is a captivating mix of dark chocolate and baking spices, with a subtle whisper of smoke. The first sip is a burst of flavour – warm rye spice mingles beautifully with hints of honey and a buttery smoothness. The oak influence comes through on the finish, lingering just long enough to be satisfying. It’s a complex and well-balanced whiskey, perfect for sipping neat.
Peter Lehmann Wines BAROSSAN X Range
Craving a red that offers something a little different this season? Look no further than Peter Lehmann’s new Barossan X range. This exciting release takes the classic Barossa Shiraz and gives it a unique twist by blending in other interesting grape varietals. I recently tried the “Twisted Shiraz,” a blend of Shiraz and Tempranillo. The colour is a beautiful ruby-red with a touch of crimson, hinting at the complexity within. The first sip surprised me with delightful aromas of red cherry and sweet, almost Turkish delight-like notes from the Tempranillo. The palate is medium-bodied, with a pleasant firmness that lingers on the finish. Flavours of dried fruit mingle with hints of cedar oak, making it a well-rounded and satisfying winter red. They also offer a “Daring Shiraz” with Montepulciano and a “Radical Shiraz” with Touriga, so there’s something for everyone in this adventurous new range.
Millon Wines 2023 Botrytis Riesling
Always on the lookout for a delicious after-dinner tipple, I recently discovered Millon Wines’ 2023 Botrytis Riesling. This limited-edition dessert wine is a real treat. The beautiful golden colour instantly draws you in, hinting at the sweetness to come. The aroma is a delightful mix of honeyed apricot and ripe peach, with a refreshing burst of lime zest that keeps things lively. The first sip is a revelation – a wave of sweetness balanced perfectly by a bright acidity. Flavours of dried apricot and marmalade linger on the palate, making it a truly satisfying experience. While it’s absolutely delicious on its own, I can imagine it would also be a fantastic complement to a cheese board or a lighter dessert.
Beresford Emblem Fiano 2023
If you’re looking for a refreshing white wine to add to your repertoire, the Beresford Emblem Fiano 2023 is an award-winning example of what this Italian grape can achieve in McLaren Vale’s unique climate. The first thing that strikes you is the beautiful bouquet – a mix of jasmine and honeysuckle with fresh notes of green apple and pear. There’s a hint of citrus and something intriguing, almost tropical, like a whisper of pineapple. The taste is equally delightful – light and refreshing with crisp green apple and nectarine flavours balanced by a lovely burst of acidity. A touch of ginger and white pepper adds a subtle layer of complexity, while the lees aging gives the wine a hint of creaminess on the finish. It’s incredibly well-balanced and easy drinking, making it perfect for a warmer afternoon or a lighter seafood meal.
Coastal Stone Whisky & Dry and Whisky & Cola.
If you’re anything like me and love a great, fuss-free Aussie whiskey, Coastal Stone’s new premixes are a revelation. The Coastal Stone Whisky & Cola, with its award-winning Double Grain Xplore Whisky mixed with premium cola, is like perfection in a can. It’s a sophisticated take on the classic whisky and cola, and honestly, it’s so good that even Jack Daniels should be taking notes. And for those times when you’re craving something crisp and refreshing, the Coastal Stone Whisky & Dry is a standout. Blending their Xplore Double Grain Whisky with Dry Ginger Ale, it’s smooth and cool—just the thing to enjoy straight from the can or over a few ice cubes on a scorching day, poolside. I’ve found it handy for unexpected guests or for bringing them along to parties. These premixes have quickly become my go-to for easy, high-quality enjoyment.
Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
Beenleigh Rum & Pineapple Crush Cans
I recently cracked open a can of Beenleigh’s Rum & Pineapple Crush, and it felt like a Samoan escape. This RTD combines Beenleigh’s smooth, handcrafted white rum with real pineapple juice making an exceptionally fruity flavour. The aroma is a fragrant mix of sweet pineapple, and tropical flowers, with a touch of vanilla, while the sip offers a perfect balance of rum’s subtle spices and juicy pineapple. Crisp and refreshing, it’s the kind of drink that instantly brightens up any occasion, making it a go-to for August and soon-to-come Spring-nights
Nemiroff De Luxe
I recently had the pleasure of trying the new Nemiroff De Luxe, a Ukrainian vodka with a rich history. The smooth, full-bodied flavour is a testament to its very meticulous production process – with 11 stages of filtration. With subtle notes of linden flower and a refreshing finish, it’s a versatile spirit that’s perfect for cocktails or enjoying neat. We made some espresso martinis with this and they were a massive hit at the office (combine 30ml Nemiroff De Luxe, 30ml espresso, 30ml coffee liqueur, and 10ml caramel syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously, then strain into a chilled coupe glass, and garnish with 3 coffee beans). If you’re looking for a premium vodka with a story to tell, I highly recommend giving Nemiroff De Luxe a try.
Heineken® Silver
I recently had the pleasure of trying Heineken® Silver, and must say, it’s a refreshing departure from the norm. The smoothness is immediately noticeable, making it an easy-drinking beer. It’s the perfect balance of flavour and lightness, without sacrificing the crispness that Heineken is known for. While I’m a fan of the original, Heineken® Silver offers something new!
Ezra Brooks Straight Bourbon Whiskey
We recently sampled Ezra Brooks Straight Bourbon Whiskey and found it to be a very pleasant surprise! The aroma was inviting, with a harmonious blend of sweet honey and vanilla, accented by a subtle citrus zest. On the palate, the sweetness persisted, complemented by nuances of caramel, vanilla, and a gentle spice. The finish was smooth and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth. Overall, Ezra Brooks is a well-rounded bourbon that offers a satisfying balance of sweetness and complexity.
As the days grow shorter and the nights draw in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good drink. This August, we’ve been exploring a range of spirits, wines, beers, and RTDs that are perfect for cosying up with. From the rich, complex flavours of Nemiroff De Luxe vodka to the refreshing sweetness of Beenleigh Rum & Pineapple Crush, we’ve got something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail or a simple, enjoyable drink, our August roundup has you covered. So, stock up your cabinet and get ready to enjoy the best of what the world of alcohol has to offer.
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Looking for other tried-and-tested drinks? Check out June’s Seven Superb Sips For This Season
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