Fear not, we have done the research on the best bargains and luxury drinks for stocking your cellar up. From champagnes and wines to brandies and the best vodkas, we’ve got them all here. There are also some amazing deals on luscious low and no alcohol options. What are you waiting for? It’s time to treat yourself to a sparkling night in. After all, hoppy hour is the best hour.

Gorgeous gins

Gin is a clear spirit, flavoured with juniper berries and botanical ingredients. This premium spirit offers a refreshing and smooth experience with every sip. Served best with tonic or lemonade or shaken into a creative cocktail – I’m certain one will catch your eye. Elevate your senses and indulge in these delicious gins. A little bit of gin-spiration goes a long way.

Chase Distillery Pink Grapefruit and Pomelo Gin – 40% 70cl

Roku Suntory Japanese Craft Gin Cherry Blossom, Yuzu and Sansho Pepper 43% 70 cl

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, 70cl 46%

Warming whiskies

There’s no whisky-business involved when buying these drinks, we highly recommend you try them. Whether served neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation of a timeless cocktail, these whiskies promise an unparalleled experience for those who indulge. Cheers to golden hour. Add a little something to your cocktail evenings with custom coasters too. Your friends will each have a personal keepsake

Think you know your drinks? Take our fun quiz

Aberlour A’Bunadh Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 70 cl

Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 43% vol  70cl

Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 70 cl

Vibrant vodkas

For many, vodka embodies the essence of refinement. Commonly known as liquid confidence, what’s stopping you from treating yourself? These selected spirits have a crisp, clean finish, making them ideal as the foundation of your favourite cocktails. Or take a shot before heading out to your favourite bar, who are we to judge?

Ciroc Premium Vodka, 40% Vol, 70cl

Crystal Head Vodka 70cl, 40% ABV – Award-Winning Premium Distilled Vodka

Grey Goose Le Citron, Premium Lemon Flavoured French Vodka

Tangy tequilas

One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor. Get ready to party. Each sip transports you to sunny beaches and festive celebrations, capturing the essence of Mexico’s vibrant spirit. Impress your gathering guests and ignite your senses with the unmistakable quality of these discounted tequilas.

Patron Reposado Premium Tequila

Don Julio Anejo Tequila, 38% vol, 70cl

Herradura Anejo Tequila, 70 cl

Breathtaking brandys

Age is just a number, but a good brandy is timeless. Life is too short to settle for anything less than the finer things, and brandy embodies sophistication in every sip. Delicate notes of spices and vanilla dance on the palate, delivering a warm, velvety finish. Whether enjoyed neat by the fireside or as the centrepiece of a classic cocktail. Get ready to make a toast this Prime Day.

Volare Apricot Brandy Liqueur, 70 cl

Torres 30 Jaime I Brandy, 70 cl

Baron De Sigognac 10 Ans Bas Armagnac Brandy 70 cl

Ravishing rums

Cupboards rumming a little empty? Time to restock on this gorgeous selection of rums. Every sip of these smooth, spiced drinks guarantees to transport you to tropical beaches and sunny breezes. With a rich amber hue and a complex flavour profile of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, rum offers delight to the senses. Time to get ship-faced!

Kraken Black Cherry and Madagascan Vanilla Black Spiced Rum 70cl

Salcombe Rum ‘Island Street’ 40%

Kadoo Club 8 Year Caribbean Rum, 40% 70 cl

Charming champagnes

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy good Champagne. It’s time to treat yourself, put your feet up, and pour yourself a glass of bubbles. Whether toasting achievements, celebrating milestones, or simply indulging in a moment of luxury, Champagne elevates every occasion with a symphony of crisp notes. Make ordinary moments feel extraordinary, life is better with bubbles.

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Non-Vintage Champagne, 75 cl

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut Champagne

Taittinger Brut Réserve Non-Vintage Champagne 75cl

Wonderful white wines

White wine provides the ultimate grape escape for all who indulge. Fresh, classic, and fruity, these wines are crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Filled with delicate aromas and crisp acidity, enjoy on a sunny balcony or as the perfect accompaniment to a gourmet meal.

Canti – Italian White Dry Wine 12%, 6×750 ml

Telmo Rodriguez ”Basa”, Rueda, Spain, white wine – 75cl

Radiant rose wines

Want to feel on cloud wine? Fresh from sunny vineyards, rose wine is always a crucial ingredient for having a good time. Rose embodies relaxation and luxury, two things you deserve. Embrace the beauty of a sunny afternoon and treat your family and friends to these sweet and delicate rose wines.

Bottega Rose Gold Pinot Nero Brut Rose Sparkling Wine Magnum – 150cl

Beronia Rioja Rose – Spanish Rose Wine, 75cl Bottle

Remarkable red wines

You had me at merlot. Rich in colour, flavour and history, these red wines are crafted for those who appreciate the depth and complexity of fine wines. Each sip elegantly lingers on the pallet, give the glass a swirl and indulge. These wines can be paired with a hearty meal or enjoyed by a dancing fire. Just try not to spill any…

Batasiolo, BAROLO DOCG, 75cl, Still Red Dry Wine Barolo

Bottega Venedika Rosso Venezia DOC Italian Red Wine – 75cl

Bubbly beer

Ale you need is love. And these beers will certainly provide that hoppy feeling. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast, or just starting your journey into the world of craft beer, these pints are all brewed with the absolute best ingredients. Bursting with flavour, these refreshing lagers will quench your thirst. Often hailed as the world’s oldest and most beloved alcoholic beverage, give these beers a try.

Camden Town Brewery Hells, 12 x 330 ml

Modelo Especial Mexican Lager Beer, 24 x 355 ml

Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri Lager, ABV 4.2%, 24 x 330ml

Amazingly alcohol-free

Fancying a night out whilst attempting to avoid pour decisions? Try these 0% spirits. Crafted for those who want a sophisticated drinking experience without intoxication. Carefully created to work in a variety of different alcohol-free cocktails, why not try them.

Seedlip Spice 94, Non-Alcoholic Spirit with Distilled Aromatic Botanicals, 0% vol, 70cl

Three Spirit Non-Alcoholic Alternative Spirit- The Livener, 50cl

Abstinence Blood Orange Non Alcoholic Aperitif distilled in South Africa, 75cl

Isabella Poderico

Overly enthusiastic and obsessed with everything a little nerdy, Isabella has written about everything from movie premieres to politics. She can often be found, as many writers often are, sitting in front of her laptop typing away obsessively in an extortionately priced independent coffee shop.

The post Get ready to refill your luxury party drinks cabinet appeared first on Silver Magazine.

We all know that bars make for a great night out. The cheery atmosphere, the games, the people – not to mention the delicious food. And, one might say, the booze. You can also create your own bar vibes at home, using a few little decor tricks like custom LED neon signs, cocktail setup, and plenty of music. But maybe it would be great to have a good time without the migraine. Or maybe you just don’t drink. We’ve compiled a little round-up of low and completely alcohol free bars in the UK that make booze-free drinks the star of the show.

Torstigbar, Brighton

This Brighton-based low alcohol bar is the perfect spot for a night out. At Torstigbar, alcohol free drinks aren’t just an afterthought – they’re the main event. With unique flavour combinations and mood-altering cocktails, you’ll be buzzing with excitement from the first sip.
Through colourful Nordic-inspired décor and brilliant music, the atmosphere of Torstigbar more than makes up for the pricey drinks. £8 for a non-alcoholic cocktail feels a bit stiff. Plus, they do giveaways on their Instagram for free drinks and pizzas, as well as parties, socials, and other events.

Featured Item: Ringkobing – A blend of Lyre’s Amaretti and Botivo, fresh orange, lemon, aquafaba and agave, all served with a fresh orange slice.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Under 18s are allowed in if accompanied by an adult – but they’ll obviously only get soft drinks. The cocktails may be low alcohol but they’re not for kids.
Dog friendly: Yes

Torstigbar

Café Sobar, Nottingham

Founded in Nottingham by Double Impact, this no alcohol bar/café hybrid aims to support those recovering from addiction. Café Sobar offers more than a safe space – it offers community, support, and even employment to those who have suffered.
And that’s not all. With its chilled-out atmosphere, lovely staff and incredible food, you’ll feel right at home here. There’s even a gallery showcase for local artists to show off their work.
The food can be pricey, but all profits go to charity, so you can buy a little extra guilt-free. It’s all going to a good cause.

Featured Item: Full breakfast stack – only £7.55 for a huge portion of delicious full English breakfast.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes – dogs are even offered a free sausage!

Café Sobar

YADA Collective – Derby

Aiming to reimagine Derby nightlife, YADA prides itself in being a friendly and authentic community space that is 100% alcohol free. They strive to bridge social gaps and bring people together – without alcohol.
And with such a warm atmosphere and rustic aesthetic, it does exactly that. YADA welcomes creatives and disruptors of the norm to express themselves in a place where they can truly feel at home.
With such a strong community, relaxed vibe and not to mention cheap drinks, what’s not to love?

Featured Item: Tequila Sunrise – Mockingbird tequila, orange juice, lime and grenadine, unmixed to preserve the beautiful layers of colour, then topped with a slice of lime.
Wheelchair access: No
Kid friendly: No
Dog friendly: Yes

YADA Collective

The Brink, Liverpool

You shouldn’t have to give up on bars just because you don’t fancy a drink. The Brink understands that the bar experience is about more than just drinking, and offers an entertaining, alcohol free space focused particularly on those in addiction recovery.
The Brink has a seriously cool venue, with industrial pipes and beams surrounded by greenery for an awesome eco-industrial vibe. Combined with live music and incredible food and drink menus – which are surprisingly cheap – The Brink really has it all.

Featured Item: Brink Burger – handmade steak patty topped with cheddar cheese and a stunning homemade onion relish, with salad, fries and red salt on the side.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

The Brink

Mr Fitzpatrick’s Temperance Bar, Rawtenstall

If you assume “alcohol free” means spending a fortune on flavoured water, you wouldn’t be alone. But at this Rawtenstall temperance bar, you can be sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
Having been a dry bar since the 1890s, you can trust that Mr Fitzpatrick’s knows how to make delicious non-alcoholic drinks that leave the usual bland bar concoctions in the dust. And it’s not just the drinks. Mr Fitzpatrick’s extensive desserts menu is sure to tempt even the most frugal customers. And with such surprisingly cheap prices, who wouldn’t be?

Featured Item: Jammie Bugger – Decadent blood tonic milkshake topped with a fresh, hot waffle, raspberry ripple ice cream, raspberry sauce, Jammie Dodgers and white chocolate Jazzles.
Wheelchair access: Yes, but it may be a tight fit.
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

Mr Fitzpatrick’s Temperance Bar

George Street Social, Newcastle upon Tyne

Run by the Road to Recovery Trust, George Street Social is more than just a dry bar. This no alcohol bar has a strong emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, especially for those recovering from addiction.
But it’s not just a recovery space either – George Street Social provides a lively atmosphere as an exciting events venue. With live music, mouth-watering cakes and inviting staff, this bar offers a wonderful sober space for any event or social. And it’s spectacularly cheap, which is always a bonus.

Featured item: While the drinks are obviously amazing, what really stands out at George Street Social is their huge variety of freshly made cakes. One for the sweet tooths. Teeth?
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

George Street Social

Dry Dock Pub, Weymouth

Looking for the full pub experience, but without the alcohol? Look no further than Weymouth’s own Dry Dock Pub. Its emphasis on creating an authentic pub experience while bringing the community together promises a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere.
Dry Dock Pub boasts a huge array of entertainment, including a vintage jukebox, pool, darts, and retro arcade games – and it’s all free! They’re always on the lookout for the next big artists for their art gallery, live music and comedy nights.

Featured Item: Dry Dock Pub has an exciting new drinks menu coming soon, so keep an eye out on their website for some fresh new flavours.
Wheelchair access: Yes
Kid friendly: No
Dog friendly: Yes

Dry Dock Pub

Planning a fun night in? Here’s a non-alcoholic drink or two we think you’d like

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post 7 alcohol free bars around the UK for a fun sober social appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Actor Joe McGann is well-known to many of us for his work on screen and stage. And we’re proud that he’s frequently been a writer for us here at Silver. But he’s taken a leap of faith, inspired to co-write – and perform in – a play with Jake Norton, centred around ‘an intervention.’

Sober Companion explores the funny, raw, and sometimes dark places of fame, addiction, and recovery.

Dan (played by Norton) is a high-flying prime time television presenter. He also has a bad habit which he denies, but he’s not hiding it as well as he thinks. 

Gerard (played by McGann) has seen it all before. He has personal experience of recovery that could be useful to Dan, so his services have been engaged. 

There is an intervention, intrusion of privacy, a stranger in the midst. We all need a little help sometimes, but it can be difficult to admit.

As Oscar Wilde once said, “No good deed goes unpunished.”

I caught up with Joe to find out how it’s going, what it’s like acting in something you’ve written, and how he’s coping with doing it all.

L-R Joe McGann and Jake Norton with Bill Elms and Antony Proctor-Williams of Liverpool Theatre Festival

How does it feel to have your work premiere this weekend then!?

Well, it’s both exciting and terrifying! It’s at this point, four days before the first performance of anything, that I usually think “why the hell do I put myself through this?” 

It will pass as I get nearer to showtime, but the struggle is real, as they say. That said, this is slightly different in that it’s going to be in my home city, a play that I’ve co-devised and co-directed, so there’s a genuine excitement at performing in front of friends and family. 

The venue is also an interesting one; they call it The Bombed Out Church, and the stage is built at what was the altar end of the church. It’s open to the sky, and so the whole experience is different from the usual theatre atmosphere. And I think all the better for that. So… bring it on!

Your play explores the theme of an intervention…

Jake and I were looking for something that two actors could do, and we were excited dramatically by the idea of an intervention. An intervention, especially in the workplace, is one of those things that absolutely nobody would welcome, that anybody would kick against, that no one would admit that they needed. 

Since we started writing, of course, the Phillip Schofield and now Huw Edwards stories have broken, and the murky world behind the scenes, in dressing rooms and HR departments, has come under scrutiny.

In the ever more increasing reach of the world of HR and this notion of a ‘duty of care’ they are becoming more common. This is very fertile ground, dramatically, and when we, purely coincidentally, happened on the idea of setting the intervention in the dressing room of a fictional ‘National Treasure” of a TV presenter we were pleased because it gave us a setting that many people are curious about. 

Since we started writing, of course, the Phillip Schofield and now Huw Edwards stories have broken, and the murky world behind the scenes, in dressing rooms and HR departments, has come under scrutiny. These dressing room fiefdoms are where media monsters are made, and often these people believe themselves genuinely untouchable. 

We thought it would be good to examine the relationship one such person had with themselves, with their loved ones, and, frankly, with reality. The patterns of behaviours that come with any addiction are pretty similar, and this gives us a template to ask universal questions about fame, recovery, privacy and publicity in what we hope is an entertaining way.

Writing is a very exposing thing. How did you push through self-doubt?

Ah, my constant friend, imposter syndrome. It’s always been with me, and I guess I’m so used to ‘pushing through it’ that this has actually become an intrinsic part of my process. It’s always there, and nothing I’ve ever done has managed to quiet it for longer than very brief moments, so the only thing to do is to embrace it. I hope that it sort of helps keeps me grounded. 

I’ll be twenty years sober next year, and the self-doubt can stay. It’s much easier to deal with than going back on the lash

Hand on heart, the only thing I ever found that I felt quieted it was a cocktail of alcohol and drugs, and that didn’t go too well as a plan. I’ll be twenty years sober next year, and the self-doubt can stay. It’s much easier to deal with than going back on the lash; for me and all of those I love. Low self-esteem and self-doubt are among the most common reasons that people turn to drugs and alcohol in the first place. We touch on this in the play. 

How will you balance the roles of writer and actor?

Jake Morton (left), Joe McGann (right) during rehearsals for Sober Companion

Pretty easily I would think- I mean my dance card isn’t exactly full of offers for either, so I will always have time, I should think. I would like to carry on writing plays, though. 

I think this process has pushed me through to a place where I feel confident enough of my ideas. I have another play in development as we speak, and that is exciting me just now. I guess the learning curve is perpendicular from my feet, and I feel that that’s a very privileged place to be.

What aspects of the theme do you find most intriguing or challenging to portray?

While I’ve said that there are many recognised symptoms shared between addicts of all kinds, I think that we are way too quick to judge the addict by their transgressions rather than recognising their pain. 

…we are way too quick to judge the addict by their transgressions rather than recognising their pain.

It also strikes me as odd that we see so many Instagram accounts and books all trumpeting about the ‘joys’ of the recovery ‘journey’. Getting one’s life back together after the horrible mess of addiction is most definitely a journey, but I feel that it’s more pilgrimage than parade. 

I’ve never felt comfortable when people congratulate me for straightening myself out. All I’ve done is stopped being destructive to myself and those around me. I’ve just come up to par, if you like. Made the basic requirements, and I’ve tried to explore this in the play. 

Sober Companion is showing as part of the Liverpool Theatre Festival 2023
Book tickets here

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Joe McGann’s Sober Companion: an interview about an intervention appeared first on Silver Magazine.

English wine isn’t just delicious, it’s an ethical choice too. It has a low carbon footprint due to its on-site vine-to-bottle method. And many vineyards focus on small-batch, sustainable harvests. They also compost, avoid herbicides, encourage healthy biodiversity, and focus on renewable energy.

While some may think of us English folk more as wine drinkers than makers, in the last 20 years English wine production has become an exciting new force. While climate change remains a very real anxiety, the rising temperatures have meant that we’ve had many more locally produced bottles to drown our sorrows with.

Grape ripening issues have become a thing of the past and the warmer, sunnier climate has opened a door to English red wine production. The limestone-chalk soil and warm climate of the South East mirror the ideal environment for bubbly famously found in Champagne. Because the prices for land in England are much lower, English producers can excel with their consumer-friendly prices. With the number of vines planted growing each year, let me take you through our top picks.

Red

Made from the skin, seeds, and stems of black grapes to achieve its rich red-purple colour, red wine arguably accrues the highest praise. Higher in bitter tannins than any other, it is recommended served at room temperature and as we say at Silver, the older the better.

Black Ewe Pinot Noir Precoce Vintage 2018

Black Ewe Pinot Noir Precoce Vintage 2018, £45

The unpredictable climate of the South West means that each wine has a character of its own. The beautiful fields of Trevibban Mill in Cornwall have cultivated a pinot noir with aromas of cherries, figs, prunes, and vanilla. The company has been highly celebrated not just for achieving such a full palate but for their sustainable approach. With earthy hints of dark chocolate, pepper, and tobacco, this English wine pairs nicely with beef, lamb, or gruyere.

• Vegan
• On-site production
• Small batch

Giffords Hall St Edmundsbury 2021, £15.50

Giffords Hall St Edmundsbury 2021

Suffolk’s Giffords Hall has produced a Pinot Noir with a lick of Rondo resulting in a colourful fusion of peppery cherry and ripe plummy notes. With hints of blackcurrant, vanilla and cedarwood spice, the softness on the palate is extremely appealing.

• Mixed blend
• Best-selling

White

For me, there is nothing better than a crisp, cold glass of white wine. Ranging from dry to sweet with fruity and floral aromas, white wine is made from both white and black grapes fermented without the skins to achieve its signature pure, naked colour.

Oastbrook Estate Vineyard Pinot Blanc 2022, £21

Oastbrook Estate Vineyard Pinot Blanc 2022

Awarded a gold medal at the IEWA 2023 for their Pinot Blanc, Oastbrook Estate presents a mouth-watering palate of apple, pear, and honeysuckle with a hint of white peach and nectarine; the perfect partner for fish or chicken on the BBQ this summer.

• Sustainable
• Organic

JoJo’s Bacchus Seyval Blanc Blend, £20

JoJo’s Bacchus Seyval Blanc Blend

JoJo’s vineyard is situated on the chalky slopes of the Chiltern Hills, Oxfordshire. Their first wine, a Bacchus-Seyval blend, is a  vibrant and expressive white wine that was released at the end of September 2022. With elegant notes of quince, apple blossom and white peach, the light white wine is fantastic with seafood, chicken or garden veg.

• Handcrafted
• Sustainable
• Small batch

Rosé

Made with black grapes fermented for less time and perfect with light bites and nibbles, rosé is a crowd magnet. Its pink, blush colour leaves a dry taste in the mouth with notes of berries, citrus or tropical fruits.

Winbirri Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé 2021

Winbirri Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé 2021, £19

The team at Winbirri Vineyard in Norfolk have expertly crafted a Pinot Noir Rosé with aromas of cherries, strawberries, and cream. Perfect as an aperitif or with fresh seafood, passion is at the heart of this wine. Its quaffable nature tastes as good as it sounds.

• Vegan
• World-class

Gusbourne Estate English Rosé, £25

Gusbourne Estate English Rosé

Similarly, the Gusbourne Estate spread across Kent and West Sussex, boasts a leading collection of Burgundian grapes that thrive in the unique microclimate of the South East. They produce smaller volumes of intensely flavourful fruit that have cultivated an English rosè that is zesty and juicy. The raspberry and redcurrant notes are finished with hints of blossom and ginger for a decadent English summer.

• Hand-picked
• Sustainable

Sparkling

Dunesforde Blanc de Noir 2018, £35

Dunesforde Blanc de Noir 2018

The southeast may be the English wine hub, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look further afield for top-notch vino. The 2018 Dunesforde Blanc de Noir is a charismatic sparkler that won gold at the IEWA. With a vibrant fruit purity of red apple and cranberry, it leaves a youthful yet modern expression. Some may say the weather isn’t ideal, but as one of the most northerly vineyards, Dunesforde has bought the vineyards of Tuscany to Yorkshire proving there isn’t a shortage of homemade booze up north.

• Supports local communities
• Environmentally friendly
• Limited reserve

There is an abundance of excellent bubbly in Britain. Sussex-based Ridgeview’s Blanc de Blancs 2018 edition or Fox & Fox’s Blanc de Noirs are among the many of our award-winning wines. But it was important to me to travel a little closer to home for this next one.

Pebblebed Sparkling Rosé, £29

Pebblebed Sparkling Rosé

From what started as a local community project to 22 acres today, Pebblebed Vineyards in Devon is a thriving wine-growing region. Its unique terroir and warmer summers help the grapes to gently ripen and produce wonderfully fresh aromas. Their Pebblebed Sparkling Rosé is crafted using the Champagne method for delicate red berry and rose petal flavours. Balanced with a fresh acidity, it has the wonderful fresh aromas that make English wine so special.

• Supports local communities
• Mixed blend
• Sustainable

Dessert

Sweet in taste, dessert wines pair perfectly with cheesecakes, vanilla or chocolate puddings, crème brulee – you name it! Perfect for when you never want your meal to end…

Hattingley Valley Entice Dessert Wine 2022, £25

Hattingley Valley Entice Dessert Wine 2022

As well as boasting a range of award-winning sparkling wines, the Hampshire-based Hattingley Valley entice you with an elegant dessert wine that has intense aromas of peach and elderflower. Its crisp acidity balances perfectly with the natural sweetness to give a pure, lasting honeyed finish.

• Vegan
• Individually tested
• Sustainable

Fortified

Made with grapes using the fermentation process, fortified wines have spirits added to them to increase its alcohol content – sounds like a recipe for a party to us. They were originally developed before the days of refrigeration to preserve wine on long journeys.

Sacred English Amber Vermouth, £19.95

Sacred English Amber Vermouth

My favourite is vermouth because it is flavoured with herbs and spices. You can get either dry (white) or sweet (red) vermouth that ranges from dry and floral to sweet and spiced. While vermouth usually originates from Italy or France, the Sacred English Amber Vermouth produced in Highgate, London was crowned the world’s best vermouth in 2019. With delicate floral and sweet orange notes, it is best served on the rocks or in a classic spritz.

• Handmade
• Organic botanicals

Non-alcoholic

L.A Brewery Sparkling English Blush, £10

Ok bear with me – we all know that alcohol-free wine is generally disgusting, right? But finally, there are some great AF options

L.A Brewery Sparkling English Blush

available for those who like a tipple without the topple. L.A Brewery in Suffolk brings you a sparkling English blush that finally offers a chance for your mind and body to reset. Inspired by summer sunshine, it combines seasonal florals with a hint of rhubarb for a crisp kombucha that is delicately dry with a floral fizz for everyone to enjoy.

• Transparent list of ingredients
• No hangover – say no more

Jukes London Tasting Box, £41

Or if you are looking for something more on the still side, look no further than Jukes, London. Their organic apple cider vinegar-based drinks are made with all-natural ingredients. You can enjoy a taste of their full range with The Tasting Box. It is an ultimate

Jukes London Tasting Box

sensory experience that includes two white, two red and one rosé that take you from citrus and herbal to deep and spicy to dry and refreshing.

• Vegan
• Low calories
• Planet-friendly

Read more: 6 of the best alcohol free spirits around

Selecting great wine

At the end of the day, if you don’t really know wine but you want a great glass of something, here are three things to look out for:

Reflect on the flavours you enjoy

Turn to the back of the bottle and consider the flavours YOU enjoy – do they match?

The more details the better

Is there information on the region, valley and grapes listed on the back?

Don’t let price dictate your choice

Discounts can often be a great opportunity to find a good deal in wine. They don’t mean the wine is of a lower quality or won’t taste great. Sometimes a bottle may be on sale because it is not in season or has been sitting in the store’s inventory for a while. In that case, consider the flavours and occasion, then allow price to be a secondary consideration.

Beth Pratt

Beth is one of Silver’s interns. She loves reading and studying literature. Entering her final year of university, Beth still finds time to dance, swim, and have a pint with friends. Her favourite hobby is going to coffee shops, if you can call it a hobby!

The post English wines that should be on your radar appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Firstly, why someone has quit is almost certainly none of your business, even if you’re bursting to ask. So how can you support your sober friends, if they decide to take the plunge and quit?

It’s becoming more common for people to pledge sobriety, but ignorant comments – well-meaning or otherwise – can have a negative effect on people who are trying to cut out alcohol. We’ve compiled a helpful guide on what not to say to anyone who you know has stopped drinking.

1. Why aren’t you drinking?

It’s none of your business for a start. As a general rule of thumb, if people want to explain their reasoning to you, they will. There are a number of reasons why one may choose to stop drinking; maybe it’s for health reasons, or maybe they’re just bored of drinking. They don’t owe you an explanation.

You can be supportive without needing to know the reasons why someone’s sobriety. Accept their wishes and support them with their choice.

“Remember, no means no.”

2. Come on, just have one!

It’s not up to you to dictate what they do. It’s completely their choice, and you need to respect that. And for many people, ‘just one’ really isn’t possible.

If their reasons for going sober are related to addiction issues (which you may not be aware of), that ‘one’ drink you’re encouraging could have a catastrophic affect on their progress.

Remember, no means no. Don’t force anyone to do something they don’t want to do. Respect their decisions.

2. You’re missing out

How do you know? Drinking makes many people deeply unhappy, for a start. If someone has stopped drinking, we can assume that they did once drink, and therefore know of the effects of alcohol. Only they will know if they are ‘missing out’, and it’s up to them to make that decision.

There’s a big misconception in society that one must drink alcohol in order to have a good time. How do you know you’re not the one who’s ‘missing out’? Particularly in terms of a good night’s sleep and improved wellbeing. Tomorrow’s hangover isn’t looking too enviable…

4. I won’t tell anyone if you have a drink…

If you say something like this to someone quitting booze, you really need to look at yourself. What are you doing? Why would you do this?

Again, this can be more harmful than good. If their sobriety is health-related, whether mental or physical, your ‘secret’ could be devastating.

5. What do you do for fun?

There are many ways to have fun and unwind that don’t involve an alcoholic beverage. By resting the notion of a good time on drinking, you’re subconsciously eliminating other avenues of fun, which they may or may not be struggling with.

Instead, ask them what they like to do on weekends, and see if you can get involved. You may find yourself a new hobby, and you’ll be taking the expectation to drink away from them.

“There are many ways to have fun and unwind that don’t involve alcohol.”

6. You’re boring now

This is not a good way to support your sober friends. Sure, we’ve all had a good laugh at one of our friend’s drunken behaviour in the past, and maybe we’ve even been the ones embarking on a reckless inebriated journey! However, telling someone you preferred them when they were dancing on tables, staying up until 4am or leading the party can be damaging. You’re implying here that you find their actual personality boring, and would rather spend time with them under the influence of alcohol.

You’ve also no idea how behaving like that made them feel inside. Consider – if they’ve quit, you could reasonably assume it wasn’t making them happy.

If this is how you genuinely feel, it may be time to reconsider your friendships. If not, maybe try to rephrase certain things in order to make your sober friend or family member feel supported and loved.

Why sober is the new cool

7. We’re going to the pub, but I’m assuming you won’t want to come

Assumptions of any kind are not generally welcome – who are you to make that choice for them? Also, just because someone isn’t drinking alcohol at the moment, it’s not to say they don’t still enjoy the social atmosphere of their local public house!

Luckily for us, there are now many alcohol-free alternatives to our favourite drinks, and even so, sometimes a nice cold soft drink is a welcome refreshment. Don’t start leaving people out of your plans because you’re assuming they won’t want to come. Let them make that decision for themselves, and make them feel welcome and supported.

You could also start planning activities that don’t always involve the pub, to ensure you’re still spending time with your loved one, and showing them that you enjoy their company and want to be supportive of their sobriety.

Helpful links

Alcohol Awareness Week
Al-Anon – for the family and friends of alcoholics
Alcoholics Anonymous
Drinkaware

Carly Pepperell

Carly gets to do everything under the sun, including writing, editing, taking photos, creating stories, and swanning around at launches. She can down a glass of Prosecco without pausing for breath, and aims to be the youngest Pulitzer winner ever.

The post How to support your sober friends – what NOT to say appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Alongside this is a well-overdue move towards alcohol-free spirits and drinks made for grown-ups. Want a cocktail? No trouble. Alternative to GnT? Of course – ice and a slice? There’s a fantastic range of delicious, alternative drinks springing up, giving consumers an elegant and sophisticated range of choices.

…there’s now a wide selection of truly impressive, adult, AF options that don’t make you feel like a toddler clutching an after-thought

There is only so much Schloer or orange juice anyone can cope with, frankly, so this is excellent news. Whilst high end cocktail bars everywhere over the past few years have started to offer unique cocktails without alcohol (and far fewer calories) – you can now buy your own to have at home too.

We’ve been testing all week and have been absolutely bowled over by the creativity and flavours that go into some of these.

Whether you want an aperitif, a distilled drink for mixing or making cocktails with, or a snifter for after dinner, there’s now a wide selection of truly impressive, adult, AF options that don’t make you feel like a toddler clutching an after-thought. Whether you’re driving, have quit the demon drink for health or addiction reasons, or just fancy something cleaner, here’s some of our faves…

Æcorn Bitter – 50cl @ £19.99

This is a great aperitif – if your tastebuds tend towards dry and bitter, this is perfect for you. Exciting over ice on its own, we think this has legs for a perfect kind of AF Negroni (No-groni?), with soda water. Bitter, complex and citrusy with refreshing notes of grapefruit, bay leaf and orange, this is a sophisticated hit and ideal for a drinks party with nibbles.
www.aecornaperitifs.com

Three Spirit ‘The Livener’ – 50cl @ £24.99

This is heavenly – packed with flavour and including hibiscus, pomegranate and watermelon, this is perfect served with a good tonic. It’s not really ‘like’ anything, it’s got its own thing going on. It’s an exotic drink but also powerful – as the name might suggest. Be aware, it’s rich in zingers like guava leaf and natural caffeine so not a late night tipple. They suggest margaritas or daiquiri style cocktails, and we can vouch for it being delicious in an AF Bellini made with Nosecco.
www.threespiritdrinks.com

Ceder’s Crisp 50cl @ £20

Many of the drinks we tried are alternatives to gin, vodka, rum etc, but don’t really taste like them. The Ceder’s range absolutely does. If you’re looking for a gin replacement and not worried that it actually tastes like gin, these are for you. We loved this one, the ‘Crisp’, with juniper, cucumber, and chamomile. Wonderfully refreshing with tonic and squeezed lime wedge.
www.ceders-alt-gin.com

Xachoh No7 70cl @ £28.99

This is one of the more expensive options but the No7 has a lovely rich, spicy taste that will delight anyone whose drinking preferences lean towards treacly rums, whiskies, bourbons etc. With the depth of a well-aged dark spirit, this is pretty good on the rocks, but also great with ginger, Coke and so on. A stand-out warmer option in what is a market dominated by gin and vodka alts.
www.xachoh.co.uk

Stryyk ‘Not’ range – 70cl @ £18.99

Coming up on our taste test as the best value for money, the Stryyk range was also the only brand that had consistently good responses to all of its drinks. The Not Gin in particular was very popular – it’s not really super like gin, but has a really zingy herby hit, with coriander, sage, basil and juniper. The Not Rum was gorgeous with Coca Cola.
www.stryyk.com

Borrago #47 Paloma Blend 50cl @ £19.99

Delightfully herby, this is a drink that stands up on its own, without making any comparisons. It’s a taste of summer, mixed with a good tonic and ice, and we loved the way it comes with a nice serving suggestions menu, and a pack of borage seeds. Delish.
www.borrago.com

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post 6 of the best alcohol free spirits around appeared first on Silver Magazine.