Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, 75cl

With its history in apothecary Peychaud’s Bitters has a strong authentic flavour which was originally dispensed as a medicinal tonic. Of course, the signature cocktail with Peychaud’s is the Sazerac but the subtle yet spicy flavour makes it a great choice for a wide range of cocktails from Old Fashioned to Whiskey Sours and the overriding flavour in each sip is aromatic cloves. Known as a great all-rounder Peychaud’s can be mixed with virtually anything to create a complex flavour profile.

The Godfather of red vermouths. Mouthful of spicy Christmas pudding followed by waves of plums, cherries, cloves, vanilla and finally cinnamon.

Rittenhouse Rye Whisky 100 proof is a hot and spicy offering which spends six years maturing before bottling. Vibrant cinnamon, black pepper and spicy rye are all prevalent in the nose and they lead into a medium body in which the higher proof is immediately apparent on the tongue. Rich notes of tobacco, cinnamon, clove and brown sugar blend together to create a highly spiced offering with just a touch of sweetness. Sip it slowly.

Crisp, fruity, its taste is reminiscent of the fragrance of a fruit cocktail made with apples. This particular fruity sparkling wine is the result of natural fermentation in autoclaves.

Classic French aperitif. Waves of honeyed tropical fruit and glace cherries with smashed sauvignon grapes and floral notes. Starts out sweet and moves into a dry zesty almost zingy finish.

Believed to be the first ever example of vermouth and credited with creating the word, Carpano is one of the world’s most recognisable and esteemed producers of this sweet, spicy drink. Carpano Biano Vermut offers a powerful hit of herbs and spices combined with a hint of vanilla and a rich, sweetness which creates an almost festive atmosphere. The richness is offset by the powerful spiciness, making this an enjoyable pre-dinner drink.