The Cocktail Bar

Is English whisky becoming a worthy opponent for its Scottish rival?

We’ve all heard the hype about English gin and sparkling wine, but those with an eye on the future should look to whisky, says Rupert Ponsonby.

The extraordinary rise of single malt Scotch whisky – and how 2018's £1m bottle will likely be be the first of many

Curious Questions: Why is New Year called 'Hogmanay' in Scotland?

For as long as anyone can remember, New Year – Hogmanay – has been a bigger deal to those living north of Anglo-Scottish border. Jason Goodwin explains why, and takes a look at the curious origins of this name.

Wokefield Estate Mansion House review: A weekend break with a gin-loving twist

Christmas drinks gift guide: Seasonal spirits to bring good cheer

Whether you're after a wonderful whisky, luxurious liqueur or jazzy gin, we've got something for you.

15 of the best gin gifts to buy this Christmas

Gins with bold new flavours, stylish new bottles and exotic twists come together with a couple of whimsical gin gifts and even a make-your-own-gin experience in our selection.

The Coral Room review: A touch of the Twenties in the heart of Bloomsbury

The recently-refurbished bar at The Bloomsbury has added a touch of glamour to an area once full of chains and tourist traps. Rosie Paterson paid a visit.

How to make perfect sloe gin

Follow our perfect sloe gin recipe to make the best sloe gin in preparation for your local opening meet.

Curious Questions: How do the genuine experts go about tasting whisky?

Developing a true appreciation of whisky is both a serious art and a delightful science – but how do the experts go about it? We spoke to Charles MacLean, the world's foremost whisky expert, to get his tips.

Carla Carlisle: The end of the world may be nigh, but it won't be permanent. Now pass the wine.

Our columnist takes aim at everything from Remainers and Leavers to Donald Trump and the weather – and ends up remembering that the world has ground to a halt many times before, only to keep on going.

Father's Day whisky: What to buy, from £23 to £2,000

Father's Day is coming up on June 17 – and if you're looking for a gift for a whisky-loving dad, we've got all sorts of options.

Best Claret under £20: Six fine wines from Bordeaux that won't break le banque

Bordeaux from the world's most famous wine makers can cost a fortune, but you can buy magnificent wine at a fraction of the price from lesser-known neighbouring vineyards. Harry Eyres picks out six favourites under £20.

The Maltster: How an art that's thousands of years old is once again gaining recognition

There are only a handful of people left in Britain who still extract malt from Barley using the 'floor-made' method – and today, people are beginning to value their efforts more than ever. Tessa Waugh explains.

Why Châteauneuf-du-Pape's latest vintage is 'a great year' – and four sublime wines to buy

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the most famous of French wines – yet also the most misunderstood. Harry Eyres explains more – and celebrates its latest superb vintage.

Living with plastic | Part 6: Keeping a balanced diet of cheese, vegetables... and tequila

Every year, Country Life's Rosie Paterson gives up something for Lent – this year, it's plastics. Over a month in and she discovers that even alcohol can cause plastic-related grief.

Gin for Mother’s Day: Seven of the best gins, including one with an Earl Grey twist

What better for Mother's Day than a bottle of 'Mother's Ruin'? We've selected seven of the finest gins on the market which are sure to give your long-suffering parent a treat.

The new whisky distillery in one of North Wales's most beautiful spots

What better day than St David's Day to take a look at Wales's newest whisky distillery – the first in the north of the country for a century.

Pol Roger unearth ancient bottles of champagne during building excavation

Champagne house Pol Roger have unearthed an extraordinary treasure while laying the foundations for a new building: 20 bottles of their finest bubbly dating back to the 19th century. Laura Seal of Decanter reports.