Category: Bartending

Gins and Tequilas the two most favourite party drinks and the most enjoyed alcoholic drinks around the globe. These drinks are sure to add more fun to any party you host. When it comes to gin, there are a few factors to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, consider the flavour profile you prefer. Some gins are more floral or fruity, while others have a more complex and herbal taste. Secondly, think about the quality of the ingredients used. The best gins are made with high-quality botanicals and spices, resulting in a smoother and more flavourful drink. Lastly, think about the occasion and how you plan to serve the gin. Some gins are better suited for cocktails, while others are best enjoyed neat or on the rock. Talking about tequilas, the quality of the agave used is the most important factor to consider. Premium tequilas are made with 100% agave and are smoother and more flavourful than tequilas made with a mix of agave and other sugars.

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In this article, we’ll provide a guide to the best gin and tequila brands available, so you can make an informed decision when choosing your next drink.             

If you’re looking for a classic gin, Tanqueray is a great choice. Its juniper-forward flavour and dry finish make it perfect for classic cocktails like a gin and tonic. For a more unique taste, Hendricks is a great option. Its cucumber and rose petal flavours make it a refreshing and sophisticated choice, perfect for a summertime cocktail. If you’re feeling adventurous, Monkey 47 is a must-try. With 47 different botanicals, this gin has a complex flavour profile that can be enjoyed on its own or in a creative cocktail.        

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If you’re in a mood for the tequila to sip on its own, consider The Botanist. This tequila is made with 100% agave and has a smooth, earthy flavour that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. For a tequila that’s great in cocktails, Roku is a great choice. Its clean, fresh flavour pairs well with citrus and other fruits, making it a perfect choice for a margarita or Paloma. These tequilas are made with the finest ingredients and offer a smooth, complex flavor profile that is perfect for sipping or mixing into cocktails.

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When choosing a gin or tequila, consider the occasion and what you want to get out of your drink. Are you looking for something to enjoy with friends at a party, or do you prefer a more sophisticated drink for a special occasion? Regardless of your preferences, you’re sure to find a gin or tequila that meets your needs from our list of the best brands. 

In conclusion, gins and tequilas are versatile drinks that can be enjoyed in various settings.

While we are sure you have had countless drinks of our all-time favourite Old Monk and spent a pretty penny on Duty Free, bringing in Glens and Chivas, it’s time to broaden your horizon. For India is home to many a brand of rums and whiskies, each unique, each with their own loyalists and each oh-so-delicious. Here are our top picks of made-in-India Rums and Whiskies that deserve a place in your bar.

THE RUMS

Gladius

Aged for 10 years, this rum is smooth with fruity and woody notes. With a lingering caramel-y and buttery aftertaste, if you like your drinks on the sweeter side, this is one rum that you must try.

Price: INR 1390

Amrut

Amrut offers two variations of its rum – Old Port and Two Indies. If you love a sweet dry finish, then the Two Indies is your pick. However, if you prefer a kick of spice, then the Old Port with nutmeg and ginger is perfect for a chilly night.

Price: INR 1700 for Two Indies & INR 1050 for Old Port

Maka Zai

Maka Zai in Konkani translates to “I want” and we bet one drink of this rum will leave you wanting for more. Available in two options white and gold, we are in love with both. While the white is sweet and floral, the gold is bold and with hints of spice. The spirit is best enjoyed in a Mai Tai according to its creator, Kasturi Banerjee.

Price: INR 1995 for white rum & INR 2595 for the gold rum

Cabo

Made in Goa, this rum will remind you of the beach with its unique coconut flavour. White coloured, this is the perfect rum to make a delicious Pina Colada, but it tastes just as good over crushed ice with cola and lime. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle the next time you’re in Goa.

Price: INR 2050 

Segredo Aldeia 

Reminiscent of Goa’s Portuguese roots, this rum aims to relay Goa’s vibrant history one sip at a time. Their offering comes in two variants – A herby and peachy white rum and a dark rum with hints of vanilla and chocolate.

Price: INR 2800 for the white rum INR 3050 for the dark rum

THE WHISKIES

Solan No.1

A rare find, named after Solan in Himachal Pradesh, this whisky relies on word-of-mouth advertising. A warm honey coloured single malt whisky, Solan No.1, is brewed at the foothills of the Himalayas, in one of the country’s oldest distilleries. Make sure to try it next time you visit the mountains and perhaps even bring back a bottle or two.

Price: INR 890

Indri

Distilled near the Yamuna basin in India, Indri is one of India’s few triple cask matured whiskies. Made with six row barley, indigenous to Rajasthan, Indri makes for a smooth warm drink with a nutty and citrusy after taste that we love.

Price: INR 3200

Amrut Fusion Single Malt

Coming out of Bengaluru, this whisky uses a select blend of Indian and Scottish barley. Rich, oaky, sweet, and citrusy all at once, the Amrut fusion stands true to its name and does a good job at it too.

Price: INR 5200

Rampur Select Single Malt

This whiskey is like a winter holiday in a bottle. With notes of toffee, cinnamon, dried fruits, vanilla and honey, the Rampur Select Single Malt is as perfect for a celebration, as it is for a quite laid-back evening.

Price: INR 5700

Now that you have this list, we suggest ticking it off one bottle at a time. Whether you prefer to enjoy them neat or mixed in a cocktail, a good time is guaranteed!

When it comes to stealing the show, cocktails have a stylish appeal. They can glam up the night with effortless ease, and are elegant members of the complete dinner party checklist. However, it is more than understandable if one feels intimidated or overwhelmed by the idea of serving a cocktail menu at their house party dinner.

But here’s what we’re here to tell you, cocktails are far more simple and easy to shake than what a rookie may think. Don’t get us wrong, a mixology is an art form indeed, but it is certainly one that can start right here, at home.

Presenting a diverse little round-up of seven easy-to-make cocktails to blow your dinner guests away!

Peach Bellini for Something Sweet 

Sparkling, effervescent bubbles add to the romantic charm of this summery drink. The Peach Bellini is a universally loved cocktail that feels light & refreshing. Read on to know about everything you need for the perfect Peach Bellini 

Glass: Champagne Flute 

Ingredients:

• 2 Ripe Peached (seeded & diced)
• Lemon Juice 15 ml
• Sugar 5 gm
• Chilled Prosecco Sparkling Wine

Method: 

• Blend the peaches, lemon juice, and sugar in a small food processor.
• Strain the mixture through the sieve and discard the peach solids.
• Place two tablespoons of the peach puree into a champagne glass and fill it with chilled prosecco.

The Strange Gibson for Something Savoury 

A cocktail by one of India’s cool & contemporary gins, Stranger & Sons, the Strange Gimlet is a heady tribute to Indian gastronomy’s pickling culture. Deliciously layered and divinely aromatic, read on to know everything you need for the perfect Strange Gimlet.

Glass: Coupette 

Ingredients:

• Stranger & Sons Gin 50 ml
• Dry Vermouth 10 ml 
• Pickled Onion Brine 15 ml 
• Pickled Onion for Garnish

Method: 

• Pour all the ingredients into a large mixing glass. 
• Stir thoroughly before pouring the concoction into a coupette glass.

The Peruwalla for a Homegrown Flavour

Inspired by the quintessential taste of the India peru fruit, this special cocktail is tart, fun and lively in spirit. Here’s all you need to shake it up!

Glass: Old Fashioned 

Ingredients:

• Stranger & Sons Gin 60 ml
• Peru Saccharum 17.5 ml 
• Lime Juice 20 ml 
• Salt, Chilli & Sugar Powder Mix for Garnish

Method: 

• Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker. 
• Shake with ice and fine strain in an old-fashioned glass rimmed with the chili mix.

The Classic Negroni for a Candlelit Affair

The famous Negroni makes for a satisfying drink with a scrumptious meal. Its subtle bitters help ease the heaviness of aged cheese. Ditch the usual wine and elevate your candlelit Italian date with a classic Negroni (pair best with the Penne Four Cheese pasta!)

Glass: Old Fashioned 

Ingredients:

• Gin 25 ml
• Sweet Vermouth 25 ml
• Campari 25 ml 
• Slice of Orange for Garnish 

Method: 

• Pour the gin, vermouth, and Campari into a mixing glass or jug with ice.
• Stir well until the outside of the glass feels cold.
• Strain into a tumbler and add 1 large ice sphere or some fresh ice
• Garnish with an orange slice (we recommend using blood orange when in season).

Whiskey Highball for a Heady Night 

Its strength and simplicity are what make the Whiskey Highball a much-loved classic. The distinct pairing of whiskey and ginger ale gets an exciting punch with a powerful garnish. Read on for the recipe! 

Glass: Old Fashioned 

Ingredients:

• Whiskey 60 ml
• Ginger Ale 100 ml
• Use Cinnamon, Rosemary, Aniseed, or Bergamot to Garnish  

Method: 

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Add whisky and ginger ale and stir gently.
• Crush the garnish on top and serve immediately.

El Presidente for a Night that Feels Young 

Although not as widely known as its Mojito or Daiquiri counterparts, this Cuban rum cocktail is a sleek and sophisticated special cocktail in its own right. Subtly bitter with sweet and citrus notes, this nuanced cocktail is the kind that you never forget.

Glass: Martini or Cocktail Glass  

Ingredients:

• White Rum 60 ml
• Dry Vermouth 22 ml
• Orange Curacao 7 ml
• A Dash of Grenadine

Method: 

• Add the white rum, dry vermouth, orange curacao, and grenadine to a mixing glass with ice
• Stir well until chilled
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass

Espresso Martini to the End the Night On a High

A cocktail that can also double up as a dessert! The Espresso Martini is the perfect drink of choice for when you want to top off the night on a thrilling high. Here’s everything you need for this feisty drink.

Glass: Stemmed  Martini Glass

Ingredients:

• Vodka 60 ml
• Coffee Liqueur 15 ml (we recommend Bailey’s or Kahlua)
• Espresso 30 ml
• Coffee Beans for Garnish 
• Sugar Syrup for Sweetening

Method: 

• Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and sugar syrup to a shaker filled with ice and shake until well chilled
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
• Garnish with whole or crushed coffee beans