“I drink to the general joy o’ the whole table,” says the usurping king in Shakespeare’s infamous Scottish play. Like Macbeth, enjoying a dram or two around the table with friends (and ghosts) can, indeed, lift spirits and enliven conversation. Here are a few we have imbibed throughout our travels in the UK:
In London
Wine: While England isn’t known for its oenology (fancy word for “winemaking!”), it does offer top-notch wines from France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and beyond. Two of our favorite spots to enjoy a glass or two are in London.
Gordon’s Wine Bar—”Gordon’s Wine Bar has quenched the thirst of wine lovers for over 130 years. Close to Covent Garden and London’s Theatreland, it is a hidden gem, just minutes away from Trafalgar Square between Charing Cross and Embankment stations. Gordon’s is renowned for its history with a vaulted candlelit cellar and old oak barrels filled with sherries and port.” Very popular, so book a table or slip in for the afternoon.
Compagnie Des Vins Surnaturels Seven Dials— “Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, within London’s vibrant Covent Garden district, is a captivating culinary and wine haven awaiting discovery in Neal’s Yard. We unveil a novel approach to wining and dining, an exciting wine selection to the discerning palate.” Sit outside and enjoy the day!
Pimms: In the summer, this classic British cocktail is ubiquitous! A delicately flavored gin-based liqueur mixed with lemonade (i.e., Sprite or 7-up), fresh fruit and ample ice, this drink is refreshingly delicious (and easy to replicate at home).
In Cornwall
Gin: In the southwestern most corner of England is Cornwall, a county known for its beauty, independent spirit, and gin. Among our favorites:
Tarquin’s—”We work with local Cornish and UK suppliers as much as we possibly can throughout our production process. When sourcing botanicals, including fresh pressed fruit for our fruit gins, we work closely with British and European suppliers to source everything as close to the distillery as possible.” My favorite: The Pink Lemon, Grapefruit and Peppercorn Gin.
Caspyn— ”A classic dry gin, with loads of floral (hibiscus flowers) and citrus notes (lemon and orange peel, lemon grass, lemon verbena), a freshness (Japanese tea), length and long sherbety finish (gorse and orris).”
Beer & Cider: Here’s a surprising fact: Cornwall is the UK capital of beer with more breweries per capita than anywhere else (39 at present). Another interesting fact: The UK consumes the most cider in the world, and the West County (which includes Cornwall) produces an especially delicious variety called “scrumpy.”
Tribute— ”Tribute is difficult to miss on Cornish shores. You will find it in most pubs scattered around the county. It’s light, hoppy, zesty and easy to drink, making it a favourite summer beverage.”
St Ives Cider— ”We passionately believe in the humble apple and our aim is to showcase its subtle complexities rather than lose them behind stronger fruit flavours. We focus on what we do best – making 100% juice, small batch ciders that stand out from the competition.”
In Scotland
Whisky: No surprise here. “With a history stretching back as far as the 11th century, Scottish whisky—also known as ‘Scotch’—is an important part of our identity in Scotland.” A few suggestions for learning about the process and sampling the goods:
The Scottish Whisky Experience—”The perfect journey through the world of Scotch whisky. We are storytellers; passionate about sharing with you our love for Scotch whisky and Scotland. Take one of our tours to widen your knowledge, explore flavours and create whisky memories.” Last year several guests and I enjoyed the “Silver Tour,” which was incredibly educational and delicious (and only £21). Highly recommended!
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery—Yes, you can purchase Dewar’s Scotch in the US (which, by the way, is the largest importer of Scotch whisky in the world!), but you’ll enjoy it so much more if you see where and how it’s made and how integral geography is to the process. Trust me.
Practically everywhere else in Scotland—With over 140 distilleries throughout the country, you can pop in almost anywhere and sample the distinctive tastes of the five Scotch Whisky regions: Speyside, Lowland, Highland, Campbeltown, and Islay.
If you’re abstaining from alcohol for health or religious reasons, you’ll find plenty of tasty, alcohol-free options throughout the UK. Here are a few:
Pentire—”This Cornish-made non-alcoholic spirit is made by distilling plants native to the region, giving it a coastal, herbaceous taste. It’s full of citrusy notes, making it perfect to mix with tonic for a (faux) G&T.”
Lucky Saint—”With a tagline stating that ‘Moderation isn’t the dirty word it once was’ and a beautifully presented bottle or can, this German brewed, British owned brewery has cracked the code for what makes a great tasting non-alcoholic lager.”
Belvoir Farm Botanical Soda Bitter Orange Spritz—”The Bitter Orange Spritz is an effervescent blend of Sicilian blood orange, pressed rhubarb, aromatic herbs and bitters, paired with sparkling water to create a ready-to-drink alcohol replacement. “
Dandelion and Burdock—”Dandelion and Burdock is a soft, carbonated drink traditional to the British Isles. It’s dark in color with a unique herbal flavor. The drink is made from fermented dandelion and burdock roots.”
(Raising my glass): Here’s hoping you’ll join us in 2024 as we explore Cornwall in June and Scotland in September. Cheers!
Check out this video to learn more about Scotch whisky.