Latest news with #Gin
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
At $1,900, Could This 2011 Nissan Have You Turning Over An Old Leaf?
Today's Nice Price or No Dice Nissan Leaf never had great range due to its relatively small battery, and issues with this one's battery have cut that number to what the seller says is "around town" miles. Could that still make this electric a viable contender? James May recently made a couple of trips to Southern California to support awareness of his namesake booze, James Gin. Documenting these adventures has been Lucy Brown, the head of the Gin maker's marketing arm and famous cheese-avoider. On multiple occasions in their videos, both James and Lucy have commented on the massive portion sizes of meals in the U.S. In fact, both have noted that everything seems bigger here, and that is typically true. Consider the 1986 Ford F-350 Crew Cab Dually pickup we discussed last Friday. With its for-doors, long bed, and extra-wide booty, it's bigger and more roomy than James' pub. The only thing that could be considered not-so-grand on that Ford was its $8,000 asking price. That earned the big truck an expansive 84% Nice Price win. Read more: 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Is All About Big Numbers Last Friday's F-350 may have been large and in charge, but today's 2011 Nissan Leaf can only claim half that statement. With its 110-horsepower AC electric motor and 24.15 kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the floor, this Nissan is small and fully in need of charge when its electrons are expended. Nissan introduced the Leaf in late 2010 for the 2011 model year, earning the car the distinction of being the first mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV) on the market. Many other manufacturers followed with electric versions of existing internal combustion engine cars, all in an effort to meet California's 2011 zero-emission mandate. Nissan was the only major carmaker to introduce a ground-up electric to achieve compliance. The introduction of the long-range Tesla Model 3 two years later made all of these "compliance cars" feel out of date, and of them, only the Leaf survives in production to this day, gaining range with bigger batteries and going more mainstream with less weird styling. When new, this first-year Leaf could go somewhere between 80 and 100 miles between plug-in sessions, which is not particularly great by today's standards. Being an early electric, its charging speeds were pretty pathetic as well, requiring overnight sessions even on 220-volt power. According to the seller, a battery issue has compromised this Leaf's range even further, with it now pooping out at "about 41 miles." It's quite amusing that they claim the range to be "about 41 miles" rather than just "40 miles." That extra mile is really the cherry on the top, I guess. The ad doesn't go into detail regarding what has gone wrong with the car that is causing the range to be cut in half, but the culprit is likely the battery pack. Used packs are available for these cars, but, like buying a used engine for transplant into an ICE car, that's a roll of the dice that might end up in the same place but around $2,501 poorer. Perhaps it would be better to leave the Leaf as is and use it, as the seller suggests, "around town." According to the ad, the car is in "Excellent" condition other than the constrained range, having done a mere 78,310 miles. Nissan built the Leaf to a price, meaning that some of the interior components are somewhat chintzy, but it does have a lot of comfort and convenience features like power windows and locks and a CD stereo. It also features some pretty cool blue lights inside, which, when it was new, was a common feature among many electric cars. The exterior, in dark metallic red, looks to be in solid shape, although the expired HOV lane stickers on the corners are a blight. There's no word on the age of the tires, but they don't appear bald or anything in the pictures. The interior is also clean and seemingly well-maintained. This is a one-owner car and comes with a clean title. The asking price is $1,900. That gets you a comfortable and cheap-to-run car whose only constraint is that it has the battery capacity of an old man's bladder. For someone with a short commute to work or who just needs to get to the local grocery store once or twice a week, this could be the perfect ride. Alternatively, it could be a fun project to buy and fix with a replacement battery reinstating the lost range. What do you think about this opportunity and that $1,900 price? Does that feel like a great deal to get into the electric car space and save some money on short commutes? Or do this Nissan's problems mean it's a Leaf that's better left alone? You decide! Nice Price or No Dice: San Francisco Bay Area, California, Craigslist, or go here if the ad disappears. Help me out with NPOND. Hit me up at robemslie@ and send me a fixed-price tip. Remember to include your commenter handle. Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter to get the latest auto news sent straight to your inbox... Read the original article on Jalopnik.
Forbes
29-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The World's Best Gin, According To The 2025 SF World Spirits Competition
The Gin Finalists From The 2025 SFWSC Five gins are finalists for the World's Best Gin at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The SFWSC is one of the world's most prestigious spirit judging events, and both consumers and the beverage industry closely follow its results. Below are brief backgrounds and tasting notes for the finalists. Tanqueray No. TEN is a premium London dry gin produced by Diageo and introduced in 2000. It takes its name from the small No. 10 copper still at the Tanqueray distillery in Cameronbridge, Scotland. The brand consistently earns Gold medals in international spirit competitions and ranks as the second-best-selling gin brand globally. Its annual sales are approximately 5 million 9-liter cases. Unlike classic Tanqueray, No. TEN is distilled with fresh whole citrus fruits, including limes, oranges, and grapefruit, alongside traditional botanicals of juniper, coriander, and chamomile. It was explicitly crafted for martini enthusiasts and is recognized for its smooth, citrus-forward profile. It also pairs well with citrus-forward cocktails. The gin is exceptionally bright and fresh on the nose, featuring citrus notes of grapefruit zest, lime peel, and lemon blossoms, followed by subtle juniper and soft floral aromas. It's crisp and fresh on the palate, showcasing citrus zest, a touch of juniper, white pepper, and coriander seed. The inclusion of whole citrus fruits gives a rounded and luxurious texture with a pronounced mouth weight. The finish is long and creamy, with lingering citrus, earthy angelica, and subtle spice notes. Gin Mare Capri is a Mediterranean gin inspired by the island of Capri. Produced in Spain, it enhances the original Gin Mare's maritime character with Mediterranean botanicals of Arbequina olives, rosemary, thyme, basil, and coriander. Capri introduces Italian bergamot and lemons to the blend, resulting in a sun-drenched, citrus-infused variation with vibrant Italian flavor. The gin is crisp on the nose, featuring a notable savory and maritime character with notes of lemon zest, bergamot oil, olive brine, and a hint of thyme. It's herbal and citrus-forward on the palate, showcasing floral, lemon, basil, rosemary, and juniper notes. The texture is smooth, with a gentle salinity and fresh, clean flavors. The finish is light yet lingering, with notes of citrus and a savory, maritime character. 3 Howls Distillery, located in Seattle, Washington, produces this potent Navy Strength Gin. The term "navy strength" refers to gin that is strong enough to ignite gin-soaked gunpowder. 3 Howls employs a traditional blend of juniper, coriander, angelica, citrus peel, and various spices. The gin is intensely aromatic, featuring juniper, black pepper, dried citrus zest, and a range of spices. It's robust on the palate, highlighting juniper, orange zest, cardamom, and a mix of earthy and spicy flavors. The higher alcohol content amplifies the flavor intensity, leaving a long, warming finish. This finish is long and dry, with lingering notes of juniper, spice, and candied citrus zest. Navy-strength gins are bold and full of character. They are perfect for vibrant gin cocktails, such as the Negroni or a Navy G&T. Gin Tonic garnished with lemon and rosemary. Fritztown Gin is crafted by Destination Distillery in Texas. Named after Fredericksburg ('Fritztown'), Texas, this gin showcases a craft approach by incorporating regional Texas botanicals. The gin presents floral and peppery aromas, featuring notes of wildflowers, juniper berries, lemon balm, and sage. It is smooth, slightly sweet, and earthy on the palate, showcasing flavors of lavender, citrus zest, coriander, and juniper. The finish is lengthy and floral, with lingering notes of lemon verbena, herbs, and spice. Triple Eight Distillery crafts Gale Force Gin on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Triple Eight is another artisanal distillery that has consistently earned medals in international spirit competitions. Named after the strong Atlantic winds, the gin embodies its maritime New England heritage. It showcases a classic botanical profile of juniper, coriander, citrus, and various spices, all distilled in small batches. The gin showcases juniper, lemon zest, a subtle savory sea breeze, and crushed coriander seed. It's dry and robust on the palate, presenting a traditional framework of juniper and citrus, enhanced by hints of anise, cardamom, and a faint saline minerality. The finish is long and crisp, with lingering notes of juniper and black pepper. These gins highlight the immense diversity of aroma and flavor profiles that define modern gins. They are all delicious and work equally well served straight or in a cocktail. The higher-strength gins are ideal for a G&T or a Martini. Any of these would be an excellent addition to your home bar.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Alcohol makers seek phased import duty cuts, strong safeguards to prevent EU FTA misuse
Alcoholic beverage maker's body CIABC has urged the government to adopt a phased reduction in import duties on liquor products under the proposed India-EU free trade agreement (FTA), while calling for strong safeguards to prevent misuse of trade concessions under the pact. In a submission to the commerce ministry, Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) has proposed slashing the effective customs (or import) duty on bottled products like wines and spirits from the current 150 per cent to 100 per cent immediately and then down to a resting customs duty rate of 50 per cent in 10 years. It has suggested similar cuts for bulk wines also. For bulk spirits, the industry has recommended an even steeper cut from 150 per cent to 75 per cent right away, reaching 25 per cent in a decade. However, CIABC warned that any tariff concessions must be tightly linked to measures preventing misuse of the FTA through trans-shipment or under-invoicing, especially between the EU members and countries like the UK. "There is a porous border between Northern and Southern Ireland (Republic of Ireland) that provides significant scope for unscrupulous elements to import extra neutral alcohol from the UK and transmit it to India as Gin and Vodka after cosmetic value addition," it said. Additionally, there is no customs duty on alcoholic beverages between the EU and UK, and with transportation cost being low, there is ample scope for alcoholic beverage products manufactured in the UK, both in bottles and bulk, being trans-shipped to India, it added. "The Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union (EU) while Northern Ireland is an entity of the UK. Since FTAs between the EU and UK shall be distinct, there is a need for safeguards from misuse of concessions offered to the EU," CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer said. He also pressed for strict rules of origin and minimum import price (MIP) thresholds to protect the domestic industry from cheap imports of wines and spirits. "Under invoicing of alcoholic beverages is rampant, and the domestic market is already flooded with cheap imported alcoholic beverages being imported at impossibly low CIF (cost, insurance, freight) values of USD 3 or even less per 750 ml bottle. A safeguard against such malpractices is most essential and, therefore, inclusion of the minimum import prices is strongly recommended," Iyer said. He strongly recommend imposition of an MIP of USD 5 per 750ml bottle of wines (as per trade agreement with Australia) to qualify for any proposed tariff reduction in the free trade pact with the 27-nation bloc on bottled products; and an MIP of USD 6.70 per bulk litre can be imposed for wines imported in bulk to qualify for any proposed tariff reduction. The director general further called for fair customs valuation and scrutiny at the port of entry. "We also suggest strict application of transfer pricing rules so as to eliminate the possibility of undervalued import prices," he said, adding that no products should be permitted for concessions under the India-EU FTA if it has been manufactured in a third country. Iyer said that if an alcoholic product is a GI (Geographical Indications) tagged product, such as Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey, Cognac, Champagne, Tequila, then the GI-linked country should be the origin for the purpose of tariff rate, regardless of where the shipment is coming from. Further, the CIABC urged that the EU should remove the condition of maturation for a minimum of three years for Indian whiskies since it is scientifically established that in warm Indian conditions, whisky ages 3 to 3.5 times faster than in Europe/UK. Indian whiskies should be allowed to be sold in the EU as whiskies irrespective of whether they are made from malt, grain spirits or molasses-based spirits, and they should accept Indian recipes as India accepts European or British recipes for whisky, he said. "The domestic industry in turn would have no objection to brand their whiskies as 'Indian Whisky' to provide the consumers an informed choice as is being done in the case of Japanese whisky, Tennessee/Bourbon whiskies from USA, Canadian Whisky and Irish Whiskey," he said, adding that when regulatory authorities in India are flexible in implementing local laws to accommodate entry of imported beverages, there should be reciprocity in according similar flexibility by allowing Indian alcoholic beverages access to EU markets. The Indian alcoholic beverage industry generates Rs 3,00,000 crore in taxes, employs 20 lakh people and sustains the livelihood of 50 lakh farmers in India, as per the body.>
Telegraph
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
50 quintessentially British drinks and where to sip them
From our west-country ciders and hoppy pints to the tipples – such as gin – adopted and adapted from countries around the globe, Britain's drinks heritage is genuinely world-beating. And we're not just talking booze, for where would the English be without a morning cup of tea? Or the Scots without (ahem) Irn-Bru...? Though we have our favourites – and have invited Telegraph columnists and specialist drinks experts to share theirs – compiling a list of quintessentially British drinks (as we have done with food) isn't an exact science, nor is it exhaustive. Indeed, we urge you to share your own favourite local brews, drams and cordials, and the places you enjoy them, in the comments section below. Whether it's a glass of English sparkling wine sipped at a Hampshire vineyard or a tot of seaweed-infused rum knocked back on the Pembrokeshire coastline that inspired it, our choices champion producers who have preserved historic techniques alongside those securing the future of the drinks scene with bold new ideas. Cheers to that! Skip to: Scotland Wales Northern Ireland North Midlands East South East London South West Scotland Jarl ale Where: FyneFest, Argyll FyneFest, May 30-June 1, 2025, Achadunan Bungalow, Cairndow PA26 8BJ; 'One of the best light ales produced in the UK, Fyne Ale's crisp, citrussy Jarl can be found on bars around the country. Though the hops are American, Jarl owes its name to a high-ranking Viking and Early Middle Ages nobleman; it's where we get the word 'earl'. The best place to enjoy it is at the brewery's own weekend festival, FyneFest. Set near the loch, it's arguably the most picturesque beer festival in the country. Supping a pint of Jarl there is a bucket-list activity.' Tipped by Laura Hadland, beer expert and author of Beer Festivals (CAMRA Books, £15.99) Speyside whisky Where: The Craigellachie Hotel, Moray Victoria St, Craigellachie, Aberlour, AB38 9SR; 'Speyside is the region of Scotland with the most distilleries and you can tick off a few in a day. It's said that Dufftown in Moray was 'built on seven stills' in reference to its concentration of distilleries. There are only six these days, but they include Glenfiddich, Mortlach and Balvenie. In Dufftown you're also about 10 minutes south of Craigellachie where there are more distilleries and two of the world's great whisky bars – Quaich Bar at the Craigellachie Hotel and The Highlander Inn.' Tipped by writer and whisky expert, Joe Rogers (@jpatrickrogers) Smoky Islay whisky Where: Bowmore Distillery, Islay School St, Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7JS; 'You're in for a ferry- or plane-ride to reach it but once you're on Islay there's Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Port Ellen, Ardbeg and many more distilleries within a short drive. These will be of significance if you like a peaty, smoky whisky, but the most special place is the No. 1 Vaults at Bowmore: the oldest part of the island's oldest distillery. Try the sherry oak cask for an exceptional dram.' Tipped by Joe Rogers Irn-Bru Where: Max's Bar, Glasgow 73 Queen St, Glasgow G1 3BZ; Known as 'Scotland's other national drink', Irn-Bru was originally sold as 'Iron Brew' until 1946 when a law decreed all product marketing must be 'literally true'. Given the soft drink contained no iron, nor was it made by brewing, the name was changed. Its recipe, in fact, is a fiercely kept secret, but we can tell you that at Max's Bar the signature cocktail is an Irn-Bru margarita endorsed by Banksy. Navy Strength gin Where: The Orkney Distillery, Orkney Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1QX; In the mid-1700s, gin became the go-to drink for naval officers because it wouldn't spoil. However, its alcohol content needed to be sufficiently high that it wouldn't cause any powder to ignite if spilt. Fifty-seven per cent was the magic ABV and 'Navy Strength' gin was born. Seek out Kirkjuvagr's Storm Strength gin made on Orkney, the island where the British Navy was based during both world wars, and head out to Scapa Flow to see where the Navy was once on war-footing. Wales Welsh whisky Where: Penderyn Distillery, Brecon Beacons Pontpren, Penderyn, Rhondda Cynon Taf, CF44 0SX; Though whisky was produced in Wales from the Middle Ages, it died out during the temperance movement in the 19th century. In 2000, the Penderyn Distillery opened its doors and whisky-making returned to Wales; it has since been joined by Dà Mhìle, Coles, In The Welsh Wind, and Aber Falls. At the original you can take a tour, see the pot stills and enjoy a taster in the bar. Seaweed rum Where: Cafe Môr, Pembrokeshire The Old Point House, Angle, SA71 5AS; Named after a local, Bartholomew Roberts, who was forced to become a pirate after his Royal Navy vessel was captured in 1719, spiced Barti Rum is infused with hand-picked Welsh laver seaweed in a nod to the area's culinary heritage. Try it on the Pembrokeshire coast at its creator's other great venture, Cafe Môr. Northern Ireland Single malt whiskey Where: Bushmills Distillery, County Antrim 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills BT57 8XH; 'At the distillery you'll see historic buildings and a new stillhouse: a great place to get a sense of Irish whiskey history. Every whiskey-lover should experience drinking their fruity triple-distilled single malt in view of Giant's Causeway.' Tipped by Joe Rogers North Jefferson's rum Where: The Rum Story, Whitehaven, Cumbria 27 Lowther St, Whitehaven CA28 7DN; The port of Whitehaven was one of the best places to import rum, sugar, and molasses from West Indian plantations to the UK. From Whitehaven it was carried over land to the opposite coast and then shipped to northern Europe. Rum and sugar made it into local hands thanks to merchants the Jefferson family. The whole tale is told at The Rum Story in Whitehaven, where customers can buy Jefferson's Rum based on the original 1785 recipe. A banked pint Where: Cameron's Brewery, Hartlepool, County Durham Stockton Street, Hartlepool, TS24 7QS; 'One of this country's lesser-known beer traditions is the banked pint. From the early 19th- to mid-20th century, pints were poured in batches and 'banked' for later under the bar. When the shift changed and steelworkers poured into the pub, the beers would be topped up quickly and served. The tradition endures though the steelworks are closed. You can spot a banked pint by the rich head of foam that sits atop. Get the authentic experience with a pint of Cameron's Strongarm at their tap, The Anchor.' Tipped by Laura Hadland Sloe gin Where: Castle Howard, North Yorkshire Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA; A precursor to pink gins, sloe gin has offered a sweeter, fruitier twist on gin since the 17th century. At Sloemotion in North Yorkshire, an initiative to improve wildlife habitats at Green Farm, in the village of Barton-le-Willows, resulted in an abundance of sloe berries, and founder Joff Curtoys began turning the unexpected crop into gin. Pick up a bottle at nearby Castle Howard and enjoy it at a picnic on the grounds (perhaps under the juniper and sloe bushes whose berries are used for gin). Mead Where: Lindisfarne Meadery, Holy Island, Northumberland St Aidan's Winery, Holy Island TD15 2RX; One of the oldest alcoholic beverages, made since the Neolithic era. Though its popularity has declined, numerous brewers fly the flag for British mead including Gosnells in London, Mountain Mead in Bangor, and Brood Meadery in Manchester. It is believed that Lindisfarne Meadery on Holy Island in Northumberland has seen Christian monks creating mead since the early Middle Ages. Vimto Where: Vimto Park, Manchester 39 Sackville Street, Manchester M1 3WE; Originally sold in the early 1900s as Vim Tonic by John Noel Nichols, a wholesaler of herbs, spices and medicines, the secret recipe containing the juice of grapes, raspberries, blackcurrants and black carrots is only known to a handful of people. Get a flavour of its history by taking a bottle down for a sip at Vimto Gardens (the location of the original Vimto factory) to see an oak sculpture depicting the original bottle and ingredients. Yorkshire tea Where: Bettys, Harrogate, Yorkshire 1 Parliament Street, Harrogate HG1 2QU; After Britain's colonisation of India created more scope to plant tea, the drink became hugely popular. By the 20th century, café tea-rooms were popping up all over Britain and the most traditional of those still operating is Bettys in Yorkshire. In 1962 it merged with Taylors of Harrogate and jointly produces one of Britain's best-selling brands, Yorkshire Tea. Dandelion and burdock Where: Fitzpatrick's in Rawtenstall, Lancashire 5 Bank Street, Rawtenstall, Rossendale BB4 6QS; Produced since the Middle Ages, this can claim to be one of the oldest soft drinks in Britain. The drink, which was originally made from fermented dandelion and burdock roots (many versions now are just carbonated, sweetened confections), was popular at temperance bars around England in the early 20th century. The last of these, Fitzpatrick's in Rawtenstall, opened in 1890, and it still produces dandelion and burdock to an original recipe. Midlands Black Country bitter Where: The Vine, Brierley Hill, West Midlands 10 Delph Road, Brierley Hill, West Midlands, DY5 2TN; 'It's hard to pick a 'death row' brew, but I'd say a pint of the legendary Batham's Bitter in The Vine, or Bull & Bladder as it's known locally, in the Black Country. If my last hours were spent admiring the rich amber colour and inhaling the fresh bread aroma, with its hints of mint and marmalade, then taking hefty draughts, I'd consider it time well spent.' Tipped by Melissa Cole, beer expert and author of The Ultimate Book of Craft Beer (Hardie Grant, £18) Crème de cassis Where: White Heron Estate, Herefordshire Lyonshall, Herefordshire HR5 3JA; While cassis is famously a product of France, anyone who has enjoyed Ribena knows Britain has its own history with blackcurrants. The White Heron Estate actually supplies blackcurrants to make the stuff but any leftovers become its British cassis. The family estate offers e-bike and walking tours where you can explore its vineyards, orchards, and blackcurrant fields and sample the fruity liqueur. Mild ale Where: The Beacon Hotel, Dudley, West Midlands Beacon Hotel, 129 Bilston Street, Dudley, DY3 1JE; 'While many mild ales are renowned for their light alcohol content, Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby is part of a proud tradition of strong dark milds in the West Midlands. A well-kept pint of Dark Ruby at the historic brewery's tap, The Beacon Hotel, is a thing of joy.' Tipped by Laura Hadland Burton ale Where: The Devonshire Arms, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire 86 Station Street, Burton upon Trent, DE14 1BT; 'The red triangle of Bass is the oldest registered trademark in the UK and speaks of a time when Burton-upon-Trent led the world in brewing. There is nothing quite like a pint of the pale ale at The Devonshire Arms. Rest your pint on the well-polished copper bar tables in the company of retired brewery workers who frequent the establishment.' Tipped by Laura Hadland Elderflower cordial Where: Belvoir Farm, Leicestershire Barkestone Lane, Bottesford, Leicestershire, NG13 0DH; Elderflower was growing excessively in the garden of the Manners family, so matriarch Mary created a cordial. Her husband, John, began selling it to local shops and the business grew. That was in the 1950s; nowadays, the family's Belvoir Farm conducts an annual elderflower harvest which you can get involved in from mid-May to mid-June. Once you've dropped off your blooms, refresh yourself with the cordial diluted up to 1:10 or splashed into a glass of prosecco; post-harvest, order it at nearby Belvoir Castle for views of the Vale of Belvoir. Perry Where: Newton Court, Leominster, Herefordshire Newton, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0PF; 'Perry, or pear cider, is at its best sipped in the sunshine. This is a gentle drink, the juicy pear usually delivered with a dab of honey and a light spritz. Newton Court's Hereford perry is crisp, refreshing and medium-sweet – pair it with local cheeses, such as those from Monkland Cheese Diary, made nearby at the Newton Court Café and restaurant on site.' Tipped by Telegraph drinks expert, Susy Atkins East English whisky Where: The English Distillery, Norfolk Harling Road, Roudham, Norfolk NR16 2QW; Over the past two decades, English whiskies have enjoyed worldwide success, with the Cotswolds, Lakes, and Spirit Of Yorkshire distilleries winning a treasure trove of gold medals at prestigious spirit awards. The English Distillery in Norfolk was England's first modern whisky distillery. Go behind the scenes there on a tasting and tour, and even make your own whisky. South East English sparkling rosé Where: Black Chalk Winery, Hampshire The Old Dairy, Fullerton Road, Andover SP11 7JX; 'England has 85 per cent of the world's chalk streams and one of the most famous is the River Test. The delicate flavour of Test-caught trout is delicious with Black Chalk Wild Rose Brut 2021, made by Jacob Leadley using pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay grapes grown in the same valley. Drop by the Andover tasting room for a sample.' Tipped by Telegraph wine correspondent, Victoria Moore The Bramble Where: Mermaid Bar, Isle of Wight Pondwell Hill, Ryde PO33 1PX; Created in the 1980s by Dick Bradsell, considered the godfather of modern mixology, this iconically British cocktail (made with dry gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and crème de mûre) was inspired by Bradsell's childhood picking blackberries on the Isle of Wight. Where better to sip one, then, than at the home of the island's excellent Mermaid Gin? English chardonnay Where: North Downs Way, Kent The Barns, Church Lane, Barham, Canterbury CT4 6PB; 'The North Downs in Kent is a superb place to see chardonnay grapes growing, specifically across the Elham Valley, where the grapes for Simpsons Gravel Castle Chardonnay 2023 are grown. I loved smoked salmon sandwiches with this wine so get out your hiking boots, make a packed lunch and set out on (a stretch of) the North Downs Way near the vineyard.' Tipped by Victoria Moore Tango Where: White cliffs of Dover, Kent Upper Road, Guston, Dover CT16 1HJ; The location most associated with a can of fizzy Tango (created in 1950 by the now-defunct Welsh Corona soft drinks brand) are the white cliffs of Dover, where an award-winning advert featured a 'Tango executive' threatening to take on 'France, Europe' and anyone else who doubted the brilliance of the soft drink. Enjoy a sip of the carbonated creation there in the fresh air. London Robinson's Fruit & Barley Where: Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, London SW19 Church Road, SW19 5AE; In 1821, a desperate Matthias Archibold Robinson patented a barley and groats crystal powder for thickening soups and broths as a last attempt to pay off his debtors. It became a hit, winning approval from Queen Victoria. In 1930, salesman Eric Smedley Hodgson mixed it with iced water and lemons for the players at the Wimbledon Championships and the public wanted some too. We've been slurping it ever since. The official partnership with the tournament ended in 2022, but after a visit to the Wimbledon Museum a bottle of it is welcome refreshment. Seedlip Where: Sprout Bar, London SW5 1-15 Templeton Place, SW5 9NB; The world's first distilled non-alcoholic 'spirit' made waves when it launched in 2015, offering a 'grown-up' way to drink without booze – thus the massive 'low or no' trend began. One of the best spots to try it is Sprout Bar in Earl's Court, London, whose menu is designed around fresh British botanicals, just like Seedlip. Oregon Trail West Coast IPA Where: The Blue Maid, London SE1 173 Borough High Street, SE1 1HR; 'Few contemporary beers receive as much adulation from punters and brewers alike as Elusive Brewing's Oregon Trail. Its resinous pine and citrus flavours, coupled with a striking bitterness, make this a masterclass in the Californian style of India Pale Ale – produced by a small brewery in Finchampstead in Berkshire. Drink it at the Blue Maid in Borough, a refurbished pub that showcases the best in independent British brewing.' Tipped by Laura Hadland London Dry gin Where: Beefeater Distillery, London SE11 20 Montford Place, SE11 5DE; The 19th-century creation of the column still allowed for the creation of a clearer, purer spirit than Dutch genever, leading to the 'London Dry' style of gin which allows the subtle botanicals to shine. The distillery which has carried the flag for London Dry the longest? Beefeater, which has been producing the gin since 1867. London stout Where: Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill, London W1 11-15 Swallow Street, Piccadilly W1B 4DG; 'London is the birthplace of stout and porter. Anspach & Hobday have revived that tradition with their intensely rich porter, London Black, and it is best enjoyed paired with oysters, as Londoners have been doing for centuries. Nowhere is this experience more pleasurable than on the marble-topped bar of Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill in Mayfair.' Tipped by Laura Hadland Pimm's Where: Merchant House Bar, London EC4 13 Well Court, EC4M 9DN; Though the gin-based summer cup is commonly associated with garden parties and picnics, Pimm's was originally created to accompany oysters at James Pimm's Fishmongers. As Pimm became better known for his drinks, the oyster business disappeared from its old home at 3 Poultry in the City of London, but if you visit the area now you can nip round the corner to Merchant House, where Pimm's is among the thousands of bottles of spirits it has collected over the years. British brandy Where: Burnt Faith, London E17 57 Sutherland Road, Walthamstow E17 6BH; Brandy has long associations with Britain thanks, in part, to our fondness for sploshing it in Christmas bakes and cakes. It was also British colonists who brought brandy to the world, promoting its 'stimulating' qualities in helping travellers cope with fevers in hot weather. Cognac-style brandy production recently made its way to Britain via Burnt Faith Brandy House in Walthamstow, which claims to house the only Charentais still in the country, where you can tour and taste. Old Tom gin Where: Hayman's Distillery, London SW12 8 Weir Road SW12 0GT; Drinks historians suggest the name of this style of gin (which is sweeter than London Dry) refers to the cat's paw sign pubs displayed to illicitly advertise when the government was cracking down on gin in the 18th century. The first 'modern' Old Tom gin was crafted by Hayman's Distillery, which bases its spirit on an 1860s recipe, where it can be enjoyed in the distillery shop. Espresso martini Where: Bar Soho, London W1 23-25 Old Compton Street, W1D 5JL; According to urban legend, a model (whose identity has been ascribed to Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Madonna, and Linda Evangelista, among others) walked into the Soho Brasserie and told bartender Dick Bradsell (of The Bramble fame) that she needed a drink to 'wake me up and f--- me up'. An espresso machine had been installed in the bar so Bradsell created a drink from espresso, coffee liqueur and vodka. Soho Brasserie is long gone, but Bar Soho does the trick. Vesper martini Where: Dukes Hotel, London SW1 35 St James's Place, SW1A 1NY; 'Shaken, not stirred...' James Bond's famous line is not actually spoken in Ian Fleming's first novel, Casino Royale; instead, Bond orders an intricate martini: 'Three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel.' Bond eventually names it after the first Bond girl, Vesper Lynd. In reality, the cocktail was created by Ivar Bryce, a friend of Fleming's. The author later said he found the drink 'unpalatable', but if you're game to try it, do so at Dukes Bar in Mayfair, renowned for its martinis and a favourite haunt of Fleming himself. Black Velvet Where: Sweetings, London EC4 39 Queen Victoria Street, EC4N 4SF; Created at the Brooks' gentlemen's club in 1861 after the death of Prince Albert, this cocktail, featuring chilled stout beer floating over champagne, looks reminiscent of the black armbands worn by mourners. The most famous place still serving it (in traditional silver tankards) is Sweetings fish bar which opened in 1889 and has since become a lunchtime institution. Dubonnet and gin Where: Upstairs at Rules, London WC2 34-35 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7LB; Yes, this has French origins, but no tipple has become as closely associated with the Royal family as the late Queen Elizabeth's 'favourite cocktail,' Dubonnet and gin made with one part gin and two parts Dubonnet (a sweet, wine-based aperitif). Sip one in Covent Garden at the cocktail bar above London's oldest and most venerable restaurant. Breakfast martini Where: The Lanesborough, London SW1 Created in 1996 by bartender Salvatore Calabrese as an updated version of the 1920s Marmalade Cocktail, the breakfast martini was considered to be a classy way of consuming alcohol early. Gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and orange marmalade star, garnished with a sliver of toast; it was invented at The Lanesborough hotel's Library Bar, where you can still order it today. South West English bacchus Where: Camel Valley, Cornwall Nanstallon, Bodmin PL30 5LG; 'Camel Valley is always on any expert's checklist of quintessential British wineries to visit. Its Darnibole vineyard, a small area planted on flint soil, was the first in England to be recognised with a protected designation of origin. Where better to sip this refreshing white than in the place where it was grown?' Tipped by Victoria Moore English dark rum Where: Treguddick Distillery, Cornwall Treguddick Manor, Launceston PL15 7JN; Rum's long association with the British Navy dates back to the start of the 17th century, when sailors were given a daily ration as part of their wages, while the smuggling trade brought rum to Cornish coves: the ideal place to hide shipments from the authorities. Reviving the drink tradition is Treguddick distillery: the first ever to produce rum in Britain. Swing by for a tour and tasting of their fine Old Salt dark rum. Craft cider Where: Sheppy's, Taunton, Somerset Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, Taunton, Somerset TA4 1ER; Records of cider production date back to Julius Caesar's invasion in 55 BCE and Britain now produces approximately 800 million litres of the stuff (dry, sweet, fizzy, flat – every which way) each year – around 40 per cent of the world's supply. For a traditional experience, visit Sheppy's in Taunton, a family-run farm which has been making its cider for over 200 years – making it one of the oldest producers in the world. Fine cyder Where: The Newt, Somerset Bruton, Somerset BA7 7NG; In the modern era, brands like Strongbow, Thatcher's, and Bulmer's have made cider a mainstay on supermarket shelves, but for a spectacular sip, visit The Newt in Somerset for its luxurious 'cyder' tour and tasting, exploring the on-site press and cellar. Plymouth gin Where: Black Friars Distillery, Plymouth, Devon 60 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2LQ; Plymouth gin was separated from other gins during the 19th-century temperance movement due to its standardised and reliable production process. Later, its earthy taste and sweetness became a favourite of Alfred Hitchcock and Orson Welles. Longstanding tradition dictates that all Royal Navy ships must carry two bottles of Plymouth gin along with glassware. Head to the distillery for a tasting as you watch the ships in the harbour. Buckfast Where: Buckfast Abbey, Devon Buckfastleigh TQ11 0EE; Originally invented by the Benedictine monks at Buckfast Abbey, this 'tonic wine' containing fortified wine and caffeine has been blamed for all manner of social ills, although the monks of Buckfast Abbey steadfastly deny that their product is harmful when enjoyed responsibly. Try it for yourself on a visit to the abbey, where you can buy it at the gift shop. Cider brandy Where: Burrow Hill, Martock, Somerset Pass Vale Farm, Burrow Hill, Kingsbury Episcopi, Martock, Somerset, TA12 6BU; The earliest account of cider brandy production dates back to 1560 in Somerset, and it's a tradition proudly carried to this day by the Temperley family's Somerset Cider Brandy Company which works alongside its sister company Burrow Hill Cider to make the premium spirit. Guests can attend an orchard tour and tasting during the summer months. Milk vodka Where: Cobb Arms, Lyme Regis, Dorset Marine Parade, Lyme Regis DT7 3JF; Vodka originated in Poland but Britain has put its own stamp on the drink. Black Cow ferments the normally-discarded whey from the cheese production process then distills it to make 'the world's smoothest vodka'. Explore the West Dorset hills for a chance to meet the cows whose milk is used to make it, then head to the Cobb Arms in Lyme Regis to enjoy a drink on the Dorset coast 12 miles from where it's made. Grain vodka Where: Ramsbury Estate, Wiltshire Stockclose Farm, Aldbourne, Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 2NN; Created from bakers wheat farmed in the chalky soil of Wiltshire, Ramsbury Estate's single estate vodka was first produced in 2015. Book a 'taste the estate' tour to explore the land, including the precise field where the wheat from your bottle of vodka was grown. Potato vodka Where: Colwith Farm Distillery, Cornwall Pelyn Cross, Lanlivery, Cornwall PL22 0JG; Derived from Britain's oldest potato cultivar, the King Edward, this hyper-smooth vodka by Colwith Farm Distillery became the UK's first to receive the prestigious Platinum Medal in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Enjoy it on site at its new Farm To Fork Café, where there's a nature trail across the local moorland to explore the terroir too. Damson gin
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Alcohol makers seek phased import duty cuts, strong safeguards to prevent EU FTA misuse
Alcoholic beverage maker's body CIABC has urged the government to adopt a phased reduction in import duties on liquor products under the proposed India-EU free trade agreement (FTA), while calling for strong safeguards to prevent misuse of trade concessions under the pact. In a submission to the commerce ministry, Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) has proposed slashing the effective customs (or import) duty on bottled products like wines and spirits from the current 150 per cent to 100 per cent immediately and then down to a resting customs duty rate of 50 per cent in 10 years. It has suggested similar cuts for bulk wines also. For bulk spirits, the industry has recommended an even steeper cut from 150 per cent to 75 per cent right away, reaching 25 per cent in a decade. However, CIABC warned that any tariff concessions must be tightly linked to measures preventing misuse of the FTA through trans-shipment or under-invoicing, especially between the EU members and countries like the UK. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Huong Tho Phu: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More "There is a porous border between Northern and Southern Ireland (Republic of Ireland) that provides significant scope for unscrupulous elements to import extra neutral alcohol from the UK and transmit it to India as Gin and Vodka after cosmetic value addition," it said. Additionally, there is no customs duty on alcoholic beverages between the EU and UK, and with transportation cost being low, there is ample scope for alcoholic beverage products manufactured in the UK, both in bottles and bulk, being trans-shipped to India, it added. Live Events "The Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union (EU) while Northern Ireland is an entity of the UK. Since FTAs between the EU and UK shall be distinct, there is a need for safeguards from misuse of concessions offered to the EU," CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer said. He also pressed for strict rules of origin and minimum import price (MIP) thresholds to protect the domestic industry from cheap imports of wines and spirits. "Under invoicing of alcoholic beverages is rampant, and the domestic market is already flooded with cheap imported alcoholic beverages being imported at impossibly low CIF (cost, insurance, freight) values of USD 3 or even less per 750 ml bottle. A safeguard against such malpractices is most essential and, therefore, inclusion of the minimum import prices is strongly recommended," Iyer said. He strongly recommend imposition of an MIP of USD 5 per 750ml bottle of wines (as per trade agreement with Australia) to qualify for any proposed tariff reduction in the free trade pact with the 27-nation bloc on bottled products; and an MIP of USD 6.70 per bulk litre can be imposed for wines imported in bulk to qualify for any proposed tariff reduction. The director general further called for fair customs valuation and scrutiny at the port of entry. "We also suggest strict application of transfer pricing rules so as to eliminate the possibility of undervalued import prices," he said, adding that no products should be permitted for concessions under the India-EU FTA if it has been manufactured in a third country. Iyer said that if an alcoholic product is a GI (Geographical Indications) tagged product, such as Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey, Cognac, Champagne, Tequila, then the GI-linked country should be the origin for the purpose of tariff rate, regardless of where the shipment is coming from. Further, the CIABC urged that the EU should remove the condition of maturation for a minimum of three years for Indian whiskies since it is scientifically established that in warm Indian conditions, whisky ages 3 to 3.5 times faster than in Europe/UK. Indian whiskies should be allowed to be sold in the EU as whiskies irrespective of whether they are made from malt, grain spirits or molasses-based spirits, and they should accept Indian recipes as India accepts European or British recipes for whisky, he said. "The domestic industry in turn would have no objection to brand their whiskies as 'Indian Whisky' to provide the consumers an informed choice as is being done in the case of Japanese whisky, Tennessee/Bourbon whiskies from USA, Canadian Whisky and Irish Whiskey," he said, adding that when regulatory authorities in India are flexible in implementing local laws to accommodate entry of imported beverages, there should be reciprocity in according similar flexibility by allowing Indian alcoholic beverages access to EU markets. The Indian alcoholic beverage industry generates Rs 3,00,000 crore in taxes, employs 20 lakh people and sustains the livelihood of 50 lakh farmers in India, as per the body.
