Summer Spirits Roundup: The Season’s Hottest Bottles

Summer’s been absolutely mental for new spirits releases, and we’ve been busy putting them through their paces so you don’t have to. From celebrity collabs that actually deliver (looking at you, Dre and Snoop) to proper craft distilleries pushing boundaries with everything from Thai-spiced gin to crayfish-inspired botanicals, this season has served up some absolute belters. Whether you’re after something smooth for sipping in the garden, a conversation starter for your next house party, or just want to know which bottles are worth the hype, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our pick of the summer’s most exciting spirits—tested, tasted, and thoroughly enjoyed.

Still Gin by Dre & Snoop ABV 42.5%

The Celebrity Collab That Actually Slaps

If you’ve ever wondered what Dre and Snoop would taste like in gin form—Still Gin is your answer. And yes, it’s as smooth as a G-funk bassline.

From the moment you twist the cap, you’re hit with a nose full of laid-back Cali vibes. There’s a citrus kick—think orange peel and lemon zest—that hits first, but it’s quickly mellowed out by botanicals that feel like they’ve been handpicked from a West Coast garden party. Juniper? Present, but chilled. Lavender? Yep, and it brings that “rollin’ down the street, sippin’ on gin and juice” energy full circle.

On the palate, it’s silky—like, velvet tracksuit silky—with a clever blend of spice and floral that somehow manages to feel both classic and totally new. There’s a subtle sweetness on the finish, almost like a wink from Snoop himself. You can sip this neat (and you should), but it sings in a G&T and absolutely lays down the beat in a gin martini.

The branding is straight-up iconic, with a bottle that looks like it belongs in a recording studio and on your top shelf. It’s less “celebrity cash-in,” more “crafted like a hit record.”

The verdict: Still Gin isn’t just a novelty—it’s a genuinely delicious, well-balanced gin with West Coast soul. Whether you’re a gin lover or a Hip Hop head (or both), this is one bottle that deserves to be on repeat. Just don’t forget the juice. More details.

Bellamie Cherry Liqueur ABV 18%

The Guilty Pleasure You Won’t Feel Guilty About

If James Bond had a sweet tooth and a penchant for cocktails with a wink, he’d probably keep Bellamie Cherry Liqueur stashed in his Aston Martin. This little ruby-red number is the ultimate guilty pleasure—equal parts elegance, nostalgia, and grown-up cherry delight.

From the first pour, Bellamie is a proper show-off—and rightly so. The colour? A deep, glistening crimson that practically shouts “mix me with champagne!” The aroma is like opening a box of Black Forest chocolates in a cherry orchard—sweet, rich, and ever-so-slightly seductive.

Taste-wise, this liqueur is cherry, cherry, cherry—in the best way. But forget synthetic syrup vibes. This is ripe, real fruit with a hint of almond and dark spice that gives it serious depth. It’s smooth and luxurious on its own, but splash it over ice, and you’ve got yourself an after-dinner treat with serious charm. Add it to cola and you’re reliving the best cocktail of your student years—just with far better ingredients and zero regrets.

Where it really shines, though, is in cocktails: a Kir Bellamie with prosecco? Divine. A Cherry Negroni twist? Bold and beautiful. Even drizzled over vanilla ice cream, it holds its own like a proper legend.

The verdict: In a world of lookalike liqueurs, Bellamie Cherry has swagger. It’s fun, flirty, and far classier than it needs to be. Keep a bottle on your shelf, and you’ll always have a secret weapon for when life needs a little extra cherry on top. More details.

Renais Gin ABV 40%

Emma Watson’s Family Recipe Actually Delivers

Renais Gin is one of those spirits that feels like it’s been crafted with actual soul—and not just because Emma Watson’s family name is behind it. From the first sip, it’s clear this is more than a celebrity vanity project. It’s a love letter to Burgundy, with a clever twist that somehow feels both timeless and totally now.

First off, the bottle. Let’s not lie—it’s absolutely gorgeous. Matte, elegant, tactile. The kind of thing you keep long after it’s empty, just because it looks that good on the shelf. But inside? That’s where the real magic happens.

Renais takes classic gin notes—juniper, citrus, a little herbaceous lift—and layers in something unexpected: grape skins from Chablis and Grand Cru vineyards. It adds this subtle, almost creamy depth that feels lush without being heavy. There’s a soft minerality to it too, like a quiet nod to the terroir it comes from.

What we love most is how versatile it is. In a G&T, it’s crisp and refreshing, with enough character to stand out without overpowering. But it also plays beautifully in a martini—elegant, dry, with a whisper of something richer underneath. And honestly? Even neat over ice, it’s surprisingly sippable.

The verdict: Renais isn’t trying to be loud or trendy. It’s confident without shouting. Thoughtful without being fussy. And in a market full of gimmicks, that’s a refreshing change. If you like your gin with a bit of heart—and a whole lot of style—this one’s worth every penny. More details.

Prakaan Single Malt – Tribura Series (Peated Malt) ABV 43%

A Thai single malt with a smoky soul and surprising finesse

If you thought great peated whiskies only came from the windswept isles of Scotland, think again. The Prakaan Single Malt – Tribura Series (Peated Malt) is a bold and expressive Thai whisky that brings smoky sophistication to the table — and does it with unmistakable style.

Crafted with meticulous care, this expression hails from Thailand’s emerging craft whisky movement, where heat, humidity, and heritage combine to mature whiskies in ways that feel both traditional and thrillingly new.

Nose: From the first swirl, the smoke makes its presence known — but it’s not the medicinal punch you might expect. Instead, it’s rich bonfire smoke, layered with hints of toasted coconut, honeycomb, and dried mango. There’s a subtle earthiness that adds intrigue and depth.

Palate: On the tongue, it’s bold but balanced. Waves of campfire peat are met with bursts of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a touch of warming spice — think clove and cinnamon bark. Mid-palate, there’s a surprising creaminess that softens the edges and makes each sip linger.

Finish: Long and satisfying. The smoke fades into sweet oak and a whisper of sea salt — evocative, elegant, and undeniably moreish.

What’s most impressive about this dram is how confidently it embraces peat while maintaining a clear sense of identity. 

The Tribura Series as a whole is designed to reflect Thailand’s elemental forces — and this peated malt certainly captures that fiery, untamed character with poise. It’s also a strong contender for those wanting to explore smoky whiskies beyond the usual suspects.

The verdict: Whether you’re a seasoned peated whisky drinker or just beginning to venture into smoky malts, the Prakaan Tribura Peated is worth your time — and your top shelf space. It’s a confident, contemporary single malt that proves Thailand is no longer just a whisky follower, but a bold leader in the global scene. More details.

Twofold Spirits Banana Rum ABV 40%

The Party Guest You Didn’t Know You Needed

Twofold Spirits Banana Rum is like the mischievous mate who shows up to the party with zero warning but becomes the absolute life and soul of the night. It’s fun, unexpected, and a little bit wild—in the absolute best way.

Let’s get one thing straight: this isn’t your typical sugary, synthetic banana rum. Oh no. This is banana done properly—ripe, rich, and a little bit roasty. It smells like caramelised bananas flambéed tableside, with hints of vanilla, toasted oak, and a whisper of tropical spice that tickles the nose just right.

From the first sip, it’s clear this rum means proper business. The base is solid—molasses-rich and full-bodied—but the banana infusion brings a smooth, velvety sweetness that’s balanced rather than cloying. There’s a slight funkiness too, that Jamaican-style twist that keeps it interesting. It’s like banana bread got a degree in mixology and decided to show off.

Mix it into a daiquiri and it turns the whole drink on its head—in a very, very good way. It’s also dangerously good with cola, or even just on the rocks when you want dessert in a glass but don’t feel like baking. Heck, it even makes a killer twist on an Old Fashioned.

The verdict: Twofold Spirits have absolutely nailed the “playful but premium” vibe. This isn’t just for beach bars or tiki mugs (though it shines there too). It’s the kind of spirit that makes you grin after one sip—and reach for a second before the first glass is even empty. In short: it’s bananas… but in the best possible way. More details.

Ladydragón Tequila Blanco ABV 38%

A Bold Beauty with Serious Bite

If ever there was a tequila with both bite and grace, it’s Ladydragón Tequila Blanco. First things first: the bottle is an absolute stunner—fierce, elegant, and impossible to ignore on any bar shelf. But it’s what’s inside that really gets your attention.

On the nose, you’re hit with bright, clean agave—fresh and peppery, but with a subtle citrus flirtation that hints at what’s coming next. The first sip? Smooth but with proper attitude. It opens with a bold agave punch (as it bloody well should), quickly softening into notes of lime zest, white pepper, and just the tiniest suggestion of sweet herbs. It’s beautifully balanced—pure and vibrant, yet complex enough to keep you going back for another taste.

This is not your average party tequila. Ladydragón Tequila Blanco is for sipping neat or on the rocks, where you can truly appreciate its craftsmanship. That said, it makes one hell of a margarita—clean, crisp, and with a backbone that refuses to be drowned out by citrus and syrup.

It’s got personality. It’s got fire. And it somehow walks the line between powerful and polished—like the mythical creature it’s named after. Whether you’re a tequila newcomer or a seasoned sipper, Ladydragón Tequila has the spirit (and style) to impress.

The verdict: A top-shelf blanco that’s as fearless as it is flavourful. Sip it slowly, but don’t sleep on it—this dragon’s got proper claws.

Twofold Spirits Thai Green Gin ABV 40%

Bangkok Night Market in a Bottle

If you thought gin couldn’t surprise you anymore, think again. Twofold Spirits’ Thai Green Gin is a botanical bombshell that somehow captures the essence of a bustling Bangkok night market… in your glass.

The moment you pop the cork, you’re greeted with an aromatic explosion—lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, a whiff of green chilli, and a whisper of basil. It’s bold, fresh, and absolutely intriguing—like a Southeast Asian curry decided to reinvent itself as a cocktail base.

On the palate, it’s a proper rollercoaster (in the best way). Bright citrus leads the charge, quickly giving way to a creamy, savoury depth from the herbs and spices. There’s a gentle heat too—nothing overpowering, just a playful prickle that lingers like a cheeky secret. It’s as if your classic London Dry went backpacking through Thailand and came back a little wilder, a little wiser, and a lot more fun.

This gin isn’t just for sipping—it’s for experimenting. Try it in a G&T with a twist of lime and a torn basil leaf. Or better yet, sub it into a Tom Collins or Southside for a fragrant, zingy reinvention. It even holds its own in a martini—seriously.

The verdict: Twofold’s Thai Green Gin is a wild ride for your taste buds, and we are absolutely here for it. Bold, aromatic, and totally original, this is a gin for people who like their spirits with stories—and a proper bit of spice. More details.

Boutique-y Whisky Company American Bourbon ABV 40%

When Scots Do Bourbon

The Boutique-y Whisky Company may be best known for its quirky labels and small-batch Scotch wizardry, but don’t let that distract you—when they take on American bourbon, they do it with proper gusto, character, and a big splash of frontier charm.

This bourbon is no wallflower. On the nose, it’s a warm hug from the Deep South—think sticky toffee pudding, maple-drenched waffles, a hint of charred oak, and just enough spice to raise an eyebrow. There’s a buttery sweetness layered with cinnamon and cloves that whispers, “I’ve seen some proper things.”

Take a sip and it struts across your palate like a cowboy entering a saloon—bold and confident, but surprisingly smooth. Caramel, toasted pecans, vanilla bean, and just a lick of tobacco swirl together, with a little peppery kick on the finish that says, “Don’t forget, I’m still a bourbon, mate.”

It’s rich, complex, and full of personality, making it perfect for slow sipping, late-night storytelling, or a proper Old Fashioned with serious attitude.

The verdict: Boutique-y’s American Bourbon is a transatlantic triumph—equal parts charm and character. It’s a dram that demands your attention without shouting. A proper conversation starter in liquid form, with enough depth to keep you coming back for “just one more.” More details.

Bathtub Gin Persian Lime & Orange Blossom ABV 43.3%

Mediterranean Garden Party Vibes

Bathtub Gin never does ordinary, and their Persian Lime & Orange Blossom expression is a perfect case in point. This one’s like stepping into a Mediterranean garden at golden hour—bursting with citrus, blooming with florals, and absolutely brimming with good vibes.

Crack it open and you’re hit with a zingy rush of fresh lime zest, followed by a soft waft of orange blossom that’s fragrant without being perfumey. There’s a botanical backbone that reminds you this is still a proper gin—juniper quietly doing its job in the background like the grown-up in the room.

On the palate, it’s lively and refreshing as anything. The lime is punchy but never sharp, balanced beautifully by the soft sweetness of the blossom. There’s a little spice warmth underneath, giving it depth and making it an absolute joy to sip over ice or lengthen with tonic (or, dare we say, a splash of elderflower soda for something properly fancy).

This is gin for long lunches, garden gatherings, or those grey days when you need a sip of sunshine delivered straight to your soul.

The verdict: Bathtub Gin Persian Lime & Orange Blossom is a delightfully fresh twist on a classic, delivering bright citrus, subtle florals, and serious summer energy. It’s uplifting, elegant, and incredibly drinkable—a gin that’s not just infused, but infused with pure joy. More details.

Karisimbi White Rum ABV 40%

The Quiet Achiever

Karisimbi White Rum is the kind of bottle that might fly under the radar—but once you’ve had a sip, it proper sticks with you. Distilled with care and clarity, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill white rum; it’s crisp, characterful, and surprisingly refined.

On the nose, it’s light and clean, with soft hints of sugarcane, a touch of vanilla, and the faintest whiff of something floral—almost like fresh coconut water on a warm breeze. It doesn’t shout, but it draws you in with its subtle complexity.

Take a sip, and you get a gentle sweetness upfront, followed by a smooth, rounded body. There’s a pleasing earthiness, perhaps a nod to its African roots, and a whisper of spice on the finish that adds just enough intrigue. It’s the kind of rum that plays well in cocktails but could absolutely hold its own in a daiquiri or even neat with a cube of ice.

This is a white rum for people who want more than just a mixer—it’s versatile, elegant, and made with proper purpose.

The verdict: Karisimbi White Rum is a smooth, quietly confident spirit that delivers a fresh, clean drinking experience with just enough character to keep things interesting. A perfect choice for elevating your mojitos, sprucing up a rum punch, or sipping slowly on a sunny afternoon. More details.

Witchmark Single Origin English Vodka ABV 40%

Spellbindingly Smooth

Witchmark Vodka might sound like something out of a fantasy novel, but what’s inside the bottle is pure, down-to-earth craftsmanship—refined, polished, and proudly English.

Made using single-origin grains, this vodka is all about purity and place. It pours crystal clear (as it bloody well should), and from the first sniff, you know it’s a cut above. The nose is soft and elegant, with subtle cereal notes, a wisp of citrus, and an almost creamy undertone—none of the harsh burn or industrial sharpness you might associate with cheaper vodkas.

On the palate, Witchmark is impressively smooth. Silky, almost weightless, with a gently warming glide rather than a punch. It delivers a whisper of sweetness, a faint nuttiness, and a super clean finish that invites another sip. There’s no bitterness, no lingering aftertaste—just a polished exit like a magician slipping offstage.

This is a vodka that’s clearly designed to be enjoyed neat or in minimalist cocktails where quality matters. Think dry martinis, vodka tonics with fresh rosemary, or a simple twist of lemon over ice.

The verdict: Witchmark Single Origin Vodka is a quietly luxurious spirit with an emphasis on terroir, purity, and finesse. It’s vodka reimagined for sipping, not slamming. If you’re into understated elegance and want to elevate your vodka game, this one casts a very classy spell. More details.

Kennet Crayfish Gin ABV 40%

The Conservation Conversation Starter

Kennet Crayfish Gin is not your average juniper-forward affair—it’s a story in a bottle, rooted in the waterways of Berkshire and infused with a sense of adventure. Inspired by the invasive American signal crayfish that’s taken over British rivers, this gin is part conservation statement, part flavour experiment, and all-round conversation starter.

Let’s get this straight—there’s no fishy business here. The crayfish don’t end up in the still, but their unexpected presence gives this gin its name and its proper edge. What you do get is a crisp, herbaceous spirit that tastes as fresh as an English riverbank in spring. Think wild water mint, nettle, and meadow flowers, with juniper ticking along in the background rather than leading the charge.

On the nose, it’s green and slightly earthy, with hints of citrus peel and crushed leaves. On the palate, it’s bold and dry but wonderfully balanced—imagine gin and tonic with an extra botanical kick that lingers just a little longer than usual.

This is a gin that shines in a classic G&T (especially with a cucumber ribbon and a sprig of mint), but it’s also brilliant in a Southside or even a dirty martini for those wanting something just a little wilder.

The verdict: Kennet Crayfish Gin is a quirky, eco-conscious spirit that breaks the mould without losing its way. For gin lovers who like a twist of the unexpected—and a proper good backstory—this one’s an absolute keeper. More details.

Savoia Americano Rosso (ABV 18.6%) & Orancio (ABV 17.2%)

Italian Aperitivo Royalty

Savoia Americano Rosso is like slipping into a velvet smoking jacket in cocktail form—sultry, bittersweet, and effortlessly stylish. Hailing from Italy but inspired by the golden age of aperitivo, this vermouth-adjacent spirit brings an old-world elegance with a modern wink.

Expect a deep ruby pour with a nose full of orange zest, clove, and wormwood. On the palate, it’s all about balance—bitter herbs tango with juicy red fruit, candied peel, and warm spices. It’s smoother and rounder than a Campari, with just enough edge to keep things properly interesting.

It’s built for Negronis but just as happy solo over ice with a slice of orange. Add a splash of soda and you’ve got a sunset in a glass.

Savoia Orancio is the golden hour in a bottle. If Rosso is your brooding Italian poet, Orancio is the sunshine-loving artist. This orange-hued aperitivo is lighter, brighter, and just a bit cheeky. A vivid burst of Sicilian orange peel meets delicate floral and herbal notes, with a gentle bitterness that keeps it classy, not cloying.

It’s citrus-forward without being sugary—think blood orange, gentian, and white flowers in a crisp white blazer. Pour it over ice, top with tonic or sparkling wine, and you’re instantly on a rooftop somewhere absolutely fabulous.

The verdict: Savoia’s duo offers two distinct moods for your aperitivo needs. Rosso is rich, deep, and contemplative. Orancio is playful, bright, and ready to party. Both deliver Italian flair with a refined twist that’ll make your evening infinitely better. More details.

Glen Moray 12 Year Old Smoky ABV 46.3%

The Reliable Mate Goes Rogue

Let’s be honest: Glen Moray has always been the dependable mate in the whisky world. Not flashy, not trying too hard, just consistently decent and reasonably priced. But this smoky edition? It’s like watching your reliable friend suddenly show up in a leather jacket—familiar, but with a cheeky new edge.

The nose is pure charm offensive. You get that first whisper of smoke—not the face-melting Islay assault, more like someone’s lit a very polite bonfire three gardens over. Then comes the classic Speyside sweetness parade: vanilla fudge, honeycomb, and green apples having a lovely time together. Give it a moment and you’ll catch hints of toasted coconut and something wonderfully herbal, like walking through Scottish heather on a lazy afternoon.

On the palate, this whisky finally shows its cards. The smoke steps up—still polite, mind you, but definitely present. Think cosy campfire rather than industrial chimney. Sweet caramel and toffee notes dance around with baked pears, while a gentle pepper warmth builds at the back. There’s charred oak doing its thing and a cheeky hint of citrus that keeps everything lively.

The finish is pleasantly lingering without overstaying its welcome. Toasted nuts, that gentle smoke again, and vanilla oak waves goodbye with just enough warmth to make you consider another dram—but it’s not demanding about it.

The verdict: This is Glen Moray doing what Glen Moray does best—being thoroughly pleasant—but with just enough smoky swagger to keep things interesting. Quietly confident, reasonably priced, and proof that sometimes the best whiskies are the ones that don’t need to show off. This bottle won’t change your life, but it’ll definitely improve your evening. More details.

SMWS “Adventurers around a campfire” ABV 53.5%

When the Whisky Society Gets Properly Experimental

Right, so SMWS has gone full mad scientist with this one, and frankly, we’re here for it. This isn’t your standard Society bottling—it’s part of their “Two to One” series, which is basically their whisky team showing off by marrying two different casks and seeing what happens. Spoiler alert: good things happen.

The story goes like this: they took two bourbon hogsheads, gave one the posh treatment in a first-fill Spanish oloroso cask at 12 years, and sent the other to a refill wine barrique that had previously housed peated whisky at 13 years. Then they got them together for a proper introduction before bottling. It’s like a whisky arranged marriage that actually worked out brilliantly.

The nose is absolutely mental in the best possible way. Neat, you’re hit with candied fennel seeds (yes, really), burnt raisins, and hickory chips alongside something that can only be described as “the petrolic heft of Alsacian riesling”—which sounds pretentious but is oddly accurate. Fresh orange juice and bouquet garni keep things lively. Add water and it transforms completely: orange travel sweets, peaches swimming in sweet riesling, and cider apples going properly funky in someone’s cellar. Then camphor, dunnage warehouse mustiness, and beeswax join the party because why not?

The palate is where this whisky earns its campfire credentials. Neat, there’s a surprisingly restrained peat note lurking—not shouting, just gently suggesting it’s there. Dark ales mingle with malty richness, toffee apple sweetness, and the rather intriguing combination of cranberry and sloe gravy (trust us on this one). Water brings out that old-school sherry character, cherry liqueur depth, crushed nettle earthiness, triple sec brightness, and burnt orange peel alongside more crystallized orange goodness.

The verdict: This is SMWS flexing their experimental muscles and absolutely nailing it. “Adventurers around a campfire” isn’t just a poetic name—it’s an accurate description of what’s happening in your glass. Complex without being overwhelming, innovative without being weird for the sake of it, and genuinely unique in a market full of “me too” bottlings. It’s pricey, sure, but you’re paying for something you literally cannot get anywhere else. This is why people join the Society in the first place—for whiskies that make you think, “How the hell did they come up with this?” and then immediately pour another dram to figure it out. More details.