From doctors to drinks cabinets, Amaro Ramazzotti began life as an herbal tonic liqueur, crafted with care by an Italian herbal doctor. A complex mix of spices including gentian root, cinnamon and Sicilian orange peel are combined to create the recognisable flavours of this century-old tonic. The orange peel provides the overwhelming flavour Amaro Ramazzotti is known for and it can be enjoyed as an aperitif as well as with mixers and in cocktails.

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

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

Italian housewife business! Sweet Rhubarb and grapefruit jelly and marmalade on toast followed by slightly bitter berries. It begs for Prosecco.

Blandy's Duke of Clarence is fined and does not require decanting. It is a superb accompaniment to dessert dishes, especially fruit, cakes, chocolate puddings and soft cheeses. It has been bottled when ready for drinkingand will keep for several months after opening.

The Aperitif that fuelled the French resistance.  It's a medium bodied red wine with roasted coffee, liquorice sticks and bitter berries followed by slow roasted peppers.

With the distinctive design and recognisable Italian flair of its marker, Carpano Classico Rosso is a rich and sweet vermouth which can be enjoyed in a wide number of ways. With all the characteristics of a quality red vermouth, Carpano Classico Rosso is fragrant, spicy and leaves you wanting at least one more sip. It’s a classic combo that works and the sweetness is well-balanced with that touch of spice.

Sweeter than a summer day, Chamberyzette takes all the finery of Dolin vermouth with the additional flavouring of wild strawberries. The combination is refreshing and an alternative to your average vermouth. Steeped in history the Dolin Company knows its stuff when it comes to vermouth and the creativity used to create this strawberry-fresh alternative is a modern twist whether drank on its own or mixed into cocktails. There aren’t many flavoured vermouths on the market and so this one is certainly worthy of a spot in your drinks cabinet.

Pedro Ximenez Gonzales Byass Nectar is a dark golden sherry which a fully bodied flavour and long satisfying finish. It is rich in the flavours of fresh, well-ripened fruit and has a hint of woody character which makes it all the more memorable. An ageing period of around eight years delivers a sumptuous flavour and its best served in a tulip glass to allow the aroma and flavour to merge together beautifully, ensuring a taste you won’t forget.

Uncompromisingly dry, refreshing and distinctive, Tio Pepe is the perfect partner for savoury nibbles, olives, fried fish, Spanish ham and of course tapas. Tio Pepe is best enjoyed within a year of bottling.

Graham’s LBV has attractive liquorice and floral aromas, and fresh blackberry flavours. It also, like the Six Grapes, has hints of the native Gum Cistus plant, which grows around the vineyards in the Douro, imparting very subtle aromas of mint to the wine. Its rich concentration of ripe fruit is balanced by the added complexity of spices, all held together by superb structure and balance.