Uplifting Spirits
Somewhat new to the market, these liquids are a cause for celebration for the festive season
MALFY GIN
When it comes to alcohol, Italy is known more for grape derivatives—think wines, Prosecco, maybe even grappa... but gin? That’s where Malfy Gin wants to fill a gap. The range of super-premium gins distilled by the Vergnano family in the Italian region of Moncalieri, is already present in other markets like the US, UK and Germany. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, Malfy Gin continues to use traditional Italian distilling methods, said to date back to the 11th century, and local botanicals. These are married with Monviso Water from Crissolo Spring, the highest and purest spring water in Italy. The full range includes four different variants: the Originale, Con Arancia, Con Limone and Gin Rosa, of which only the latter two have been introduced locally for now. Lemon-centric, the Con Limone has a zesty background, while the Gin Rosa features an elegant fusion of Sicilian pink grapefruits.
THE DEACON
While peated whisky can be an acquired taste, The Deacon is likely to turn you towards the smoky side. The blended whisky uses liquid from Scotland’s renowned regions, including smoky mainland and peaty Islay malt whiskies.
It’s contained in an eye-catching embossed bottle—an ode to the traditional copper pot stills used in the whisky’s distillation process. Its flavour profile has hints of charred orange, sweet malty biscuits and wood smoke on the nose, which then gives way to a mouth-feel of zesty orange, delicate spice and tangy peat. The result is a smoky, sweet, and peaty flavour with a relatively long and smooth finish—making The Deacon a delectable choice to drink neat or mix up in your favourite cocktail.
VOLCAN X.A
Some people shake or shiver at the mention of the word tequila as it brings back past traumas. But that’s mainly because they have been doing it all wrong—tequila is not meant to be downed in a shot glass. Also, the quality of the liquid itself plays a major role. Enter the Volcan X.A, which is an ultrapremium tequila made up of 100 per cent blue agave. The brand also prides itself on not including any additives, such as sweeteners, into the liquid. Produced by Mexican distiller Volcan de mi Tierra, it is purely a blend of reposado (aged), añejo (extra-aged) and extra-añejo (ultra-aged) tequilas. Its reposado base provides a not-too-sweet smoothness, while the añejo and extra-añejo add a level of depth and aromatic elegance to the final product. As mentioned, it is recommended to be sipped on, but can also be enjoyed chilled or on the rocks using flutes or tumbler glasses, respectively.