Alcology
Alcology
LIFE'S TOO SHORT FOR ORDINARY DRINKS
LIFE'S TOO SHORT FOR ORDINARY DRINKS
ALCOLOGY
/al·kɒl·ə·dʒi/
defining
noun [ mass noun ] · neologism · est. 2026
THE STUDY OF ALCOHOL.
PURSUIT OF THE EXTRAORDINARY.
Life's too short for ordinary drinks
1. The rigorous study of alcohol in its most considered forms; understanding what separates the extraordinary from the merely adequate.
2. The search for Element 119 and beyond: the exceptional liquid still waiting to be discovered. Usually found in an independent winery, brewery or distillery by people far more interested in the drink than the marketing.
3.(Hong Kong, trade) The practice of finding those bottles across Europe and putting them into the right hands, behind the right bars and onto the right tables.
Because discovery is only useful when someone gets to drink it.
ORIGIN: 21st century. From alc- meaning alcohol, and -ology, the study of.
Also: the firm belief that the drinks world has not finished revealing its elements.
RELATED FORMS
alcologist noun · alcological adjective
“USAGE”
“I don’t know what’s in this glass, but it’s pure alcology.”
“This could be Element 119.”
HONG KONG'S BEST BARS & top restaurants DESERVE EUROPE'S BEST DRINKS, but there is a gap…
what we do
We find the bottles nobody in Hong Kong has heard of yet. The ones that make someone stop mid-sip and ask what they're drinking.
FROM THE WORLD'S OLDEST BREWERY TO THE WORLD'S HIGHEST WHISKY DISTILLERY. BOTH ARE IN OUR PORTFOLIO. BOTH ARE NEW TO HONG KONG.
…and WE'RE CLOSING
THat GAP.
our pourfolio
newly discovered ELEMENTs
Click on the tiles to discover our curated selections
OUR LATEST DISCOVERIES
LYCHEE, RASPBERRY AND RED DRAGON FRUIT. LIGHT, FLORAL AND REFRESHINGLY DRY.
Tarsier Lychee & Raspberry Pink Gin was inspired by a visit to a fruit orchard on the banks of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, where platters arrived piled high with ripe, colourful fruit. That experience became the starting point for a pink gin shaped by the flavours and vibrancy of Southeast Asia.
Lychee leads with its distinctive floral sweetness, while raspberry brings brightness and a gently tart edge. Red dragon fruit completes the trio, adding another subtle layer of tropical fruit to the gin’s classic botanical base.
Unlike many pink gins, this is not designed to be overly sweet. A small amount of fruit sugar balances the sharper fruit notes without masking the juniper beneath. The result is light, fragrant and refreshing, with enough structure to work in cocktails as well as a simple G&T.
Serve it with a light tonic, fresh raspberries and mint, or lengthen it into a colourful Lychee & Raspberry Spritz.
Spirits with a purpose
Tarsier’s connection to Southeast Asia goes beyond the flavours inside the bottle. The brand donates 10% of its profits to conservation projects working to protect endangered tarsiers and the natural habitats on which they depend.
Its first conservation partner is the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, which works to protect one of Southeast Asia’s smallest and most distinctive primates in the wild.
Every bottle helps support that commitment—clearly, directly and without losing sight of the liquid.
Tasting notes
Red floral notes come first, followed by a burst of lychee sweetness and the gentle tartness of raspberry. Subtle juniper runs underneath, keeping the finish fresh, balanced and distinctly gin-led.
Producer: Tarsier Spirit Ltd
Brand owner: Tarsier Spirit Ltd
Country of manufacture: United Kingdom
Category: Spirits
Style: Pink gin
Signature botanicals: Lychee, raspberry and red dragon fruit
Other botanicals: Juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, orris root, orange peel and lemon peel
Alcohol: 40% ABV
Bottle size: 70cl
Perfect serve
Serve 50ml of Tarsier Lychee & Raspberry Pink Gin over ice with a light tonic. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint.
Cocktail serve
Lychee & Raspberry Spritz
A light, aromatic spritz that builds on the gin’s floral fruit character without becoming overly sweet.
Ingredients
50ml Tarsier Lychee & Raspberry Pink Gin
100ml lychee juice
Chilled tonic water
Fresh mint
Method
Add the gin and lychee juice to a wine glass filled with ice. Top with tonic and stir gently, then garnish with a fresh sprig of mint.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Yes
Suitable for vegetarians: Yes
Suitable for coeliacs: Yes
Certified organic: No
According to the producer’s specification sheet, the product contains none of the listed major allergens, including gluten, milk, eggs, nuts, peanuts, soya, sesame or sulphites.
FINE, PERSISTENT BUBBLES, DELICATE AROMATICS AND A CRISP, VERY DRY PALATE WITH A CLEAN, REFRESHING FINISH.
Lamborghini Brut Vino Spumante Ice is a vibrant sparkling wine made from Pinot and Chardonnay grapes using the Martinotti–Charmat method.
Pale yellow in colour, it displays a fine and persistent stream of bubbles alongside an intense yet delicate bouquet. The palate is notably dry, crisp and well balanced, finishing with refreshing clarity.
Secondary fermentation lasting between 10 and 20 days is followed by one to two months of refinement on the lees, creating a lively and approachable Brut suited to aperitifs, celebrations and light dishes.
Tasting notes
Pale yellow in colour with a fine and persistent perlage.
The bouquet is intense yet delicate, offering an inviting aromatic character without overpowering the wine’s freshness.
Very dry, crisp and balanced on the palate, with lively bubbles and a clean, refreshing finish.
Producer: Lamborghini
Wine style: Brut sparkling wine
Varieties: Pinot and Chardonnay
Sparkling-wine method: Martinotti–Charmat method
Secondary fermentation: 10–20 days
Lees refinement: 1–2 months
Colour: Pale yellow
Perlage: Fine and persistent
Bouquet: Intense and delicate
Palate: Very dry and well balanced
Residual sugar: 6g/L
Alcohol: 12% ABV
Serving temperature: 6–8°C
Bottle size: 750ml
Perfect serve
Serve well chilled at 6–8°C in a tulip-shaped sparkling-wine glass.
The gently tapered bowl helps retain the fine bubbles while allowing the wine’s delicate aromatics to emerge. Keep the bottle chilled throughout service to preserve its crisp, dry and refreshing character.
Food pairing
Its fine bubbles, very dry palate and refreshing finish make Lamborghini Brut Vino Spumante Ice a versatile aperitif and an excellent partner for light, savoury dishes.
Serve with:
Oysters and fresh shellfish
Grilled prawns
Smoked salmon
Sushi and sashimi
Seafood canapés
Lightly fried calamari
Vegetable tempura
Fresh salads
Antipasti
Prosciutto and delicate cured meats
Soft, young cheeses
Light seafood pasta
The wine’s crisp character refreshes the palate alongside fried foods, cured meats and creamy textures. Its delicate aromatics also complement seafood, fresh vegetables and lighter appetisers without overwhelming their flavours.
Dietary and allergen information
Contains sulphites.
Suitable for vegans: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients, production methods and allergen information may change.
https://www.lamborghiniwine.it/
A CLASSIC DARK BAVARIAN LAGER WITH ROASTED MALT, GENTLE CARAMEL, RED FRUIT AND A BALANCED BITTER FINISH.
Weihenstephaner Tradition Bayrisch Dunkel is a traditional dark Bavarian lager from the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest brewery, where beer has officially been brewed since 1040.
Dark amber to reddish brown in colour, it pours with a compact, eggshell-white head of foam. Inviting roasted-malt aromas introduce its rich character, accompanied by gentle caramel and subtle red-fruit notes.
The palate is full-bodied and highly drinkable, balancing mild malt sweetness with roasted flavours and measured hop bitterness. Smooth caramel and fruit lead into a clean, pleasantly bitter finish, creating a distinctive yet approachable Bavarian Dunkel.
Tasting notes
Roasted malt, caramel and subtle red fruit shape the aroma. The full-bodied palate combines mild sweetness with toasted grain and smooth dark malt before a balanced bitterness emerges on the finish.
Producer: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan
Beer: Weihenstephaner Tradition Bayrisch Dunkel
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Brewery location: Freising
Beer style: Bavarian Dunkel
Fermentation: Bottom-fermented
Filtration: Filtered
Malt: Light and dark Bavarian barley malt
Hops: Hallertauer Perle and Hallertauer Tradition
Original gravity: 12.8%
Bitterness: 24 IBU
Colour: Reddish brown, 40 EBC
Alcohol: 5.2% ABV
Bottle size: 500ml
Case size: 20 × 500ml bottles
Serving temperature: 6–8°C
Calories: 230 kcal per 500ml
Availability: Year-round
Shelf life: Refer to the best-before date on the packaging
Perfect serve
Serve at 6–8°C in a clean lager glass or beer mug rinsed with fresh, cold water immediately before pouring.
Hold the glass at approximately 45 degrees and pour slowly down its inside wall. Gradually straighten the glass as it fills, allowing a compact head of foam to form.
Food pairing
Weihenstephaner Tradition Bayrisch Dunkel pairs particularly well with roasted meats, poultry, game and other rich, savoury dishes.
Roast pork
Roast beef
Grilled sausages
Roast chicken
Duck
Venison
Game dishes
Beef stew
Mushroom dishes
Mature cheese
Pretzels
Caramelised onions
Roasted meats complement its toasted malt character, while poultry and game work well with its caramel and red-fruit nuances. Mature cheese and mushroom dishes provide a savoury contrast to its mild sweetness and balanced bitterness.
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place, ideally at 4–6°C. Protect the bottles from direct sunlight and excessive heat. For the best flavour and condition, consume before the best-before date shown on the packaging.
Dietary and allergen information
Allergens: Contains barley
Gluten: Contains gluten
Vegan: Not confirmed by the producer
Vegetarian: Not confirmed by the producer
Organic: No organic certification stated
Always refer to the bottle and its accompanying packaging for definitive ingredient, allergen and dietary information.
https://www.weihenstephaner.de/en
DRIED PLUM, ROASTED CHESTNUT AND DARK CHOCOLATE. POWERFUL, COMPLEX AND INTENSE.
Intensity, by design.
SLYRS Fifty-One is a bold and richly layered Bavarian single malt bringing together whiskies matured for varying lengths of time in casks previously used for sherry, port and Sauternes. Each cask contributes a different dimension, creating a powerful expression of the distinctive SLYRS style.
Dried plum and roasted chestnut provide richness, complemented by dark chocolate, bitter herbs and warming clove. Earthy notes of moss and spruce add depth, while an unexpected freshness brings balance to the whisky’s concentrated flavour and formidable 51% ABV.
Complex, uncompromising and built for slow exploration, Fifty-One is SLYRS at full intensity.
The name says it all.
Tasting notes
Rich in appearance, with an intense and inviting depth of colour.
Dried plum and roasted chestnut lead the aroma, followed by earthy moss, aromatic spruce and a subtle hint of dark chocolate.
Full and characterful on the palate, combining bitter herbs, warming clove and roasted nuts with concentrated dark fruit and an unexpected freshness. The finish is long, intense and gently dry.
Producer: SLYRS
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Spirit type: Single Malt Whisky
Cask influence: Sherry, port and Sauternes casks
Style: Powerful, complex, rich and intense
Alcohol: 51% ABV
Bottle size: 700ml
Perfect serve
Serve neat at room temperature in a whisky tasting glass, allowing its dried-fruit, roasted-nut and dark-chocolate aromas to develop gradually.
A few drops of still water are particularly effective with this high-strength whisky. Add the water slowly to soften the alcohol and reveal more of its fruit, herbs and underlying freshness.
Avoid excessive chilling, which may restrict its rich aroma and layered cask character.
Food pairing
The whisky’s dried fruit, roasted nuts, dark chocolate and warming spice make it an excellent partner for game, mature cheeses and deeply flavoured desserts.
Serve with:
Roast venison with a plum reduction
Duck breast with port sauce
Slow-cooked beef
Chargrilled steak
Roasted mushrooms with thyme
Mature Alpine cheese
Blue cheese with dried fruit
Roasted chestnuts
Flourless dark-chocolate cake
Plum tart with warming spices
Dried plum and the influence of port, sherry and Sauternes casks complement fruit-based sauces, game and mature cheese. Roasted chestnut, clove and bitter herbs provide depth alongside beef, mushrooms and chargrilled dishes.
Its dark-chocolate character and gently dry finish also balance rich desserts without allowing the pairing to become overly sweet.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
No declarable allergens are stated by the producer.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://slyrs.com/en/
GOOSEBERRY, GREEN PEPPER AND FRESH HERBS. COMPLEX PFALZ SAUVIGNON BLANC WITH RIPE FRUIT, PEPPERY SPICE AND A FULL, MINERAL-DRIVEN PALATE.
Precision in the vineyard provides the foundations for this expressive Sauvignon Blanc.
Lergenmüller Feuerstein Sauvignon Blanc Trocken 2025 is produced exclusively from pre-selected grapes harvested by hand. Following harvest, the fruit undergoes 24 hours of skin contact, helping to extract greater aromatic detail and structure before fermentation. One week of bâtonnage, or lees stirring, contributes additional texture and fullness.
The result combines recognisable Sauvignon Blanc character with the generous style of the southern Pfalz. Gooseberry and green bell pepper lead the bouquet, followed by fresh herbs, ripe fruit and a subtle touch of black pepper.
On the palate, balanced residual sweetness and acidity complement a full body and clearly defined mineral character. Herbal freshness and ripe fruit remain closely integrated, creating a complex but approachable dry white wine with substance and length.
Distinctively Sauvignon Blanc.
Though not limited to the usual script.
Tasting notes
Bright, youthful yellow with pale green reflections.
Gooseberry and green bell pepper introduce the nose, accompanied by fresh herbs, ripe citrus fruit and a subtle touch of black pepper.
Full and balanced on the palate, with ripe fruit, refreshing acidity and underlying mineral structure. Gentle creaminess from lees contact brings texture to the persistent, herbaceous finish.
Producer: Weingut Lergenmüller
Country: Germany
Region: Pfalz
Winery location: Hainfeld
Range: Terroirlinie
Wine type: Dry white wine
Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2025
Style: Herbal, fruity, full-bodied and mineral
Harvesting: Pre-selected and harvested by hand
Skin contact: 24 hours
Lees treatment: One week of bâtonnage
Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
Residual sugar: 7g/L
Total acidity: 6.5g/L
Recommended ageing potential: Up to 5 years
Serving temperature: 6–8°C
Bottle size: 750ml
Perfect serve
Serve well chilled at 6–8°C in a medium-sized Sauvignon Blanc or white-wine glass.
No decanting is required, although a few minutes in the glass will allow the wine’s gooseberry, herb and pepper notes to develop. Avoid serving it excessively cold if you want to experience its fuller texture and mineral detail.
Give it room to express itself.
It has clearly arrived with something to say.
Food pairing
Its herbal character, ripe fruit and mineral freshness make this Sauvignon Blanc particularly effective with seafood, green vegetables, goat’s cheese and aromatic dishes.
Serve with:
Grilled prawns with herbs
Pan-seared sea bass
Baked goat’s cheese
Asparagus with hollandaise
Pea and herb risotto
Grilled courgettes
Green vegetable pasta
Thai herb salad
Vietnamese summer rolls
Roast chicken with tarragon
Fresh goat’s cheese
The wine’s acidity brings freshness to creamy dishes, while its gooseberry and herbal notes complement green vegetables, aromatic herbs and tangy cheeses.
A lively partner at the table.
Especially when green vegetables are involved.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Yes
Fining agent: Plant-based protein and pea starch
Suitable for vegetarians: Yes
Suitable for coeliacs: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Contains SULPHITES.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://www.lergenmueller.com/en/
RICH MALT, FLORAL HOPS AND LIGHT HONEY COME TOGETHER IN A STRONG, GOLDEN AND DECEPTIVELY SMOOTH BAVARIAN BOCK.
Rich, golden and beautifully balanced, Andechser Bergbock Hell is a traditional pale bock produced by Klosterbrauerei Andechs.
Brilliant gold and crystal clear in appearance, it offers generous malt aromas accompanied by floral hops, ripe fruit and a delicate touch of honey.
Full-bodied and warming on the palate, its gentle malt sweetness is balanced by fine hop bitterness. Despite its strength, the beer remains soft, smooth and harmonious, leading to a clean and composed finish.
Tasting notes
Brilliant gold in the glass, with a crystal-clear appearance and firm, fine-pored white head.
Rich malt and floral hops lead the aroma, followed by delicate notes of ripe fruit and light honey.
Full-bodied and warming on the palate, with restrained bitterness balancing the natural sweetness before a soft, smooth and harmonious finish.
Producer: Klosterbrauerei Andechs
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Beer type: Lager
Style: Pale bock
Fermentation: Bottom fermented
Colour: Brilliant gold
Original wort: 16.9%
Bitterness: 19.4 IBU
Alcohol: 6.9% ABV
Energy: 260kJ / 62.1kcal per 100ml
Bottle size: 500ml
Perfect serve
Serve chilled at approximately 5–8°C in a bock glass, stemmed beer glass or traditional lager glass.
Pour slowly, allowing a firm white head to develop. Avoid serving it excessively cold, as a little warmth allows the beer’s rich malt, ripe fruit and delicate honey notes to become more expressive.
Food pairing
Andechser Bergbock Hell’s rich malt character, warming body and fine bitterness make it an excellent partner for roasted meats, substantial fish dishes and mature cheeses.
Serve with:
Roast pork
Glazed ham
Grilled sausages
Roast chicken
Rich fish dishes
Roasted vegetables
Alpine cheeses
Fruit tarts
Fruit-led desserts
Its full body complements richer dishes, while the floral hops and restrained bitterness provide freshness. The beer’s honeyed malt character also works particularly well with nutty cheeses and gently sweet fruit desserts.
Ingredients
Water, BARLEY MALT, hops and yeast.
The brewery uses malt from Bavarian maltings alongside aroma hops from Hallertau.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: No
Gluten-free: No
Certified organic: No
Contains BARLEY and therefore contains gluten.
Always check the product label before consumption, as ingredients, allergens, dietary suitability and product information may change.
andechs.de
JUNIPER, BRIGHT CITRUS AND GENTLE SPICE. SMOOTH, ELEGANT AND MADE FOR CHAMPAGNE.
Where gin meets Champagne.
The Gatsby Gin combines classic Dutch distilling expertise with the refined character of Marc de Champagne. Produced in Schiedam, the Netherlands, it is made with seven carefully selected botanicals: turmeric, angelica, juniper, lemon, orange, coriander and liquorice.
Classic juniper provides the foundation, lifted by vibrant lemon and orange. Turmeric, coriander and angelica contribute gentle warmth and spice, while liquorice brings a subtle, rounded sweetness. The essence of Marc de Champagne completes the profile with delicate floral notes and an unmistakable sense of occasion.
Smooth, sophisticated and confidently contemporary, The Gatsby Gin shines in a simple gin and tonic while retaining the elegance required for a Champagne cocktail.
Presented in a striking green Art Deco bottle, it is made to be poured, shared and celebrated.
Bottled to be more. Bottled to be Gatsby.
Tasting notes
Bright and aromatic, with classic juniper accompanied by fresh lemon and orange.
The palate is smooth and balanced, combining lively citrus with delicate floral character, subtle sweetness and warming botanical spice. Turmeric, coriander and angelica add complexity, while liquorice gives the gin a rounded texture.
The finish is elegant and gently spiced, with lingering juniper, citrus peel and soft sweetness.
Brand: House of Gatsby
Producer and distillery: Herman Jansen Beverages Nederland B.V.
Country: The Netherlands
Region: Schiedam
Spirit type: Gin
Key ingredient: Essence of Marc de Champagne
Botanicals: Turmeric, angelica, juniper, lemon, orange, coriander and liquorice
Style: Juniper-led, citrus-forward, gently spiced and subtly floral
Alcohol: 44.8% ABV
Bottle size: 700ml
Signature serve: French 75
Perfect serve
Fill a large wine glass with ice and add:
50ml The Gatsby Gin
Premium tonic water
Fresh lemon peel
Stir gently and garnish with a generous twist of lemon.
The clean bitterness and carbonation of the tonic highlight the gin’s juniper and citrus, while the lemon garnish complements its bright, fruit-led character.
Signature cocktail
The Sparkling Gatsby
The House of Gatsby interpretation of the classic French 75 pairs the gin’s citrus, spice and floral character with Champagne.
Ingredients:
30ml The Gatsby Gin
15ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
60ml Champagne
Ice
Method:
Add the gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled, then strain into a Champagne flute. Top gently with Champagne and stir carefully.
Glassware: Champagne flute
Garnish: Lemon twist
Food pairing
The gin’s juniper, citrus and gentle spice work particularly well with seafood, fresh cheeses and light canapés.
Serve with:
Oysters with lemon
Smoked salmon blinis
Prawn cocktail
Crab and citrus salad
Goat’s cheese crostini
Prosciutto and melon
Lemon-marinated olives
Lightly spiced chicken skewers
Orange and almond cake
Dark chocolate with candied citrus peel
Its bright citrus profile complements shellfish and smoked fish, while juniper and gentle spice provide contrast alongside cured meats and creamy cheeses.
When served in a French 75, its Champagne character makes it particularly suitable for oysters, canapés and celebratory dishes.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Allergen information has not been specifically supplied by the producer.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://www.house-of-gatsby.com
FLORAL MUSCAT, RIPE ORCHARD FRUIT AND FINE SPICE. AROMATIC FRANCONIAN BACCHUS WITH JUICY TEXTURE, GENTLE SWEETNESS AND AN EASY-GOING FINISH.
Approachability is not the same as simplicity.
Hans Wirsching Iphöfer Bacchus Kabinett 2024 is an aromatic VDP.Ortswein from Iphofen in Franken. Bacchus is particularly associated with this part of Germany, where it produces expressive white wines with floral fragrance, generous fruit and naturally welcoming character.
A cross involving Riesling, Silvaner and Müller-Thurgau, Bacchus can recall the floral Muscat notes of Scheurebe. Here, that aromatic personality is supported by fine spice, juicy fruit and a full, rounded texture.
The 15.8g/L of residual sugar provides gentle sweetness without making the wine feel excessively rich. Fresh acidity keeps everything balanced, resulting in a harmonious Kabinett that is fragrant, soft and remarkably easy to enjoy.
Hans Wirsching describes it as an ideal introduction for those beginning to explore wine, while retaining enough aromatic character to satisfy considerably more experienced drinkers.
A sensible starting point.
And by no means somewhere one has to stop.
Tasting notes
Bright, youthful yellow in colour.
The bouquet is aromatic and floral, with Muscat-like perfume, ripe orchard fruit and delicate spicy notes.
Juicy and full-flavoured on the palate, with gentle residual sweetness balanced by fresh acidity. The finish is harmonious, refined and pleasantly aromatic.
Producer: Weingut Hans Wirsching
Country: Germany
Region: Franken
Town: Iphofen
Classification: VDP.Ortswein
Prädikat: Kabinett
Wine type: Off-dry white wine
Grape variety: Bacchus
Vintage: 2024
Style: Floral, aromatic, juicy and gently sweet
Grape origin: Iphofen
Harvest date: 20 September 2024
Alcohol: 11% ABV
Residual sugar: 15.8g/L
Total acidity: 5.8g/L
Recommended drinking window: Until 2030
Bottle size: 750ml
Perfect serve
Serve chilled at 10°C in an aromatic white-wine glass.
No decanting is required. Pour directly from the refrigerator, allowing the wine to warm slightly in the glass so that its floral and spicy aromas can develop.
Particularly suitable for relaxed summer drinking.
Regardless of whether summer has cooperated.
Food pairing
Its floral character, juicy texture and gentle sweetness make it a natural partner for fresh salads, light summer dishes and aromatic Asian cuisine.
Serve with:
Thai chicken salad
Vietnamese summer rolls
Mild vegetable curry
Sweet-and-sour chicken
Lightly spiced noodle dishes
Grilled prawns
Fresh garden salads
Goat’s cheese salad
Summer vegetable tart
Mild soft cheeses
The wine’s residual sweetness softens chilli and aromatic spice, while its fresh acidity works well with crisp vegetables, herbs and lighter seafood dishes.
Friendly with food.
Even friendlier without formal arrangements.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Contains SULPHITES.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://www.wirsching.de/en/
FRESH, FLORAL AND CLEAN. THE TOP-FERMENTED COLOGNE CLASSIC FOR PEOPLE WHO EXPECT MORE FROM THEIR LAGER.
FRÜH Kölsch offers the crisp refreshment of a lager with the delicate aroma and character of an ale. In other words, the best of both worlds.
Unlike lager, Kölsch is top-fermented. Yet it pours pale and clear, drinks clean and refreshing, and finishes with the composure lager drinkers love. That makes FRÜH an ideal introduction to ale for committed lager drinkers—and a convincing upgrade for anyone who thinks pale beer cannot be interesting.
Bright gold in the glass, it opens with fresh, floral aromas followed by lively carbonation and a soft, balanced sweetness. A gently bitter note develops across the palate, providing definition without compromising its famously easy-drinking character.
FRÜH has brewed its Kölsch in Cologne since 1904, using the original recipe developed by Peter Josef Früh. Slow Brewing gives the beer plenty of time to ferment and mature, creating its clear, balanced and remarkably polished flavour.
This is not a premium lager, despite appearances. It is something more distinctive: an authentic Cologne Kölsch combining ale fermentation with lager-like clarity and refreshment. Perfect for lager lovers—even those who prefer not to admit that lager is what they really want.
Tasting notes
Bright, clear gold with a fine white head.
Fresh and floral on the nose, with delicate malt and light hop aromas. Lively carbonation refreshes the palate before gentle bitterness and balanced sweetness come together through the middle.
Clean, crisp and exceptionally drinkable, with a smooth, harmonious finish.
What is Kölsch?
Kölsch is Cologne’s distinctive local beer style. It is top-fermented like an ale, but pale, sparkling and clean enough to appeal immediately to lager drinkers.
The result sits comfortably between familiar categories:
More aromatic and characterful than a standard lager
Cleaner and more refreshing than many traditional ales
Pale, crisp and highly drinkable
Softly malty, floral and gently bitter
Ideal for drinkers exploring beyond conventional lager
The Kölsch name is geographically protected. Authentic Kölsch must be brewed within the recognised Cologne brewing area and comply with the requirements of the Kölsch Convention. FRÜH Kölsch is brewed in Cologne and carries the EU protected geographical indication associated with the style.
Producer: Cölner Hofbräu FRÜH
Country: Germany
Region: Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia
Beer type: Ale
Style: Kölsch
Fermentation: Top fermented
Colour: Bright gold
Original wort: 11.3%
Alcohol: 4.8% ABV
Energy: 162kJ / 39kcal per 100ml
Available bottle formats: 330ml and 500ml
Imported product: Traditional FRÜH Kölsch
FRÜH Kölsch is brewed according to the brewery’s original 1904 recipe and carries the Slow Brewing quality seal.
Perfect serve
Serve chilled between 5°C and 7°C.
For the authentic Cologne experience, pour it into a tall, narrow Kölsch glass, traditionally known as a Stange. Its slender shape helps maintain the beer’s carbonation, white head and refreshing character.
Pour into a clean glass rinsed with cold water immediately before serving. Keep the beer cool, but avoid serving it excessively cold—the floral aroma, gentle malt sweetness and fine bitterness need a little room to show themselves.
Food pairing
FRÜH Kölsch has the freshness of a lager and the food-friendly character of a delicate ale. Its lively carbonation and gentle bitterness make it particularly effective with fried, grilled and lightly seasoned dishes.
Serve with:
Schnitzel
Bratwurst and grilled sausages
Roast chicken
Fried fish
Pork dishes
Burgers
Warm pretzels
Mild and semi-hard cheeses
Potato dishes
Salads and crisp vegetable dishes
The beer’s carbonation cuts through fried and richer foods, while its soft malt sweetness complements roast meat, bread and mild cheese. Its restrained bitterness also means it will not overwhelm more delicate dishes.
Ingredients
Water, BARLEY MALT and hops.
Brewed according to the German Purity Law without artificial additives.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed for traditional FRÜH Kölsch
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: No
Gluten-free: No
Certified organic: No
Contains BARLEY and therefore contains gluten.
Always check the product label before consumption, as ingredients, allergens, dietary suitability and product information may change.
https://www.frueh.de
A POWERFUL GRANDE CHAMPAGNE COGNAC WITH PEACH, FIG, HONEY, VIOLET, WARM SPICE AND MATURE RANCIO.
Maison Audry Réserve Aristide is made exclusively from Grande Champagne eaux-de-vie aged for more than 50 years. Bottled at cask strength, it combines remarkable maturity and concentration with the elegance associated with Cognac’s premier cru.
Aromas of peach, fig and honey introduce its rich fruit character, lifted by fragrant violet and warming spice. Extended maturation brings further complexity, revealing developed rancio and deeper notes of leather, coffee and cocoa.
Powerful yet composed, Réserve Aristide offers a profound expression of mature Grande Champagne Cognac. Its concentrated fruit, floral elegance and savoury depth continue through an exceptionally persistent finish.
Tasting notes
Peach, fig and honey lead into fragrant violet and warming spice. The concentrated palate develops mature rancio, leather, coffee and cocoa before an exceptionally long, powerful and complex finish.
Producer: Maison Audry
Collection: Réserve Aristide
Vintage: Non-vintage
Country: France
Region: Cognac
Classification: Grande Champagne Cognac
Crus: 100% Grande Champagne
Composition: Blend of mature Grande Champagne eaux-de-vie
Ageing: More than 50 years
Cask type: French oak
Bottling: Bottled at cask strength
Colour: Deep amber
Style: Powerful, mature, concentrated and complex
Added sugar: No added sugar
Added colouring: No added colouring
Alcohol: Cask strength
Bottle size: 700ml
Perfect serve
Serve neat at 20–22°C in a fine crystal tulip glass. Pour a small measure and allow the Cognac to rest for at least 20 minutes, giving its concentrated aromas and mature rancio time to develop.
Taste it initially without dilution to appreciate its natural cask-strength character. A few drops of still water may then be added gradually to reveal further layers of fruit, violet, spice, leather and cocoa.
Food pairing
Maison Audry Réserve Aristide is best enjoyed alone or with carefully selected accompaniments that complement its mature fruit and powerful rancio character.
Fresh figs
Dried apricots
Candied orange peel
Roasted walnuts
Dark chocolate
Coffee truffles
Cocoa-dusted almonds
Mature Comté
Blue cheese
Cigar-leaf chocolate
Figs and dried fruit complement its concentrated fruit character, while dark chocolate, coffee and cocoa reflect its deeper, mature flavours. Walnuts and aged cheeses provide a savoury contrast to its honeyed richness and floral elegance.
Dietary and allergen information
Sulphites: No sulphite declaration has been supplied
Vegan: Not confirmed by the producer
Vegetarian: Not confirmed by the producer
Coeliac suitability: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Organic: No organic certification stated
Added sugar: Not confirmed by the producer
Added colouring: Not confirmed by the producer
Always refer to the bottle and its accompanying packaging for definitive alcohol, allergen and dietary information.
https://cognac-audry.com
HONEY, DRIED APRICOT AND RIPE PEACH. LUSCIOUS CHARDONNAY WITH ELECTRIC ACIDITY AND A FINISH IN NO PARTICULAR HURRY.
Sweetness is easy.
Balance requires considerably more work.
Weinrieder Beerenauslese Chardonnay Ried Hohenleiten 2020 is an opulent Austrian dessert wine made from carefully selected, overripe Chardonnay grapes. Each bunch was meticulously harvested by hand at peak ripeness, concentrating the vineyard’s honeyed fruit while preserving the vibrant acidity for which Weinrieder’s sweet wines are known.
The grapes come from Ried Hohenleiten, a south-facing vineyard on a high plateau in the Weinviertel. Its combination of loess, clay and sand supports the production of powerful, complex wines with considerable ageing potential.
Honey, dried apricot and ripe peach form the heart of the wine. Notes of honeycomb, candied citrus, mango and pineapple follow, accompanied by delicate nuttiness and a measured touch of spice.
With 129g/L of residual sugar, this is undoubtedly a rich wine. Refreshing acidity keeps the sweetness precise, lifted and beautifully balanced.
Three hundred and seventy-five millilitres may sound restrained.
The contents are not.
Tasting notes
Luminous gold in appearance.
The nose is generous and concentrated, combining honey, dried apricot, ripe peach, honeycomb and delicate nutty aromas.
Luscious sweetness fills the palate, balanced by fresh, energetic acidity. Candied citrus, mango, pineapple and subtle spice lead into a long, persistent finish.
Producer: Weinrieder
Country: Austria
Region: Niederösterreich
Wine region: Weinviertel
Vineyard: Ried Hohenleiten
Wine type: Beerenauslese
Grape variety: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2020
Style: Rich, sweet, concentrated and fresh
Vineyard position: South-facing high plateau
Soil: Loess, clay and sand
Harvesting: Selected overripe grapes harvested by hand
Winemaker: Lukas Rieder
Alcohol: 10.5% ABV
Residual sugar: 129g/L
Total acidity: 6.7g/L
Bottle size: 375ml
Certification: Certified Sustainable Austria
Award: 94 points, À la Carte
Perfect serve
Serve well chilled at 8–10°C in a dessert-wine or small white-wine glass.
No decanting is required.
Use a modest pour.
The flavour is anything but modest.
Food pairing
Serve with:
Apricot tart
Peach desserts
Crème brûlée
Honey and almond cake
Blue cheese
Foie gras
It can also be enjoyed alone as a dessert in its own right.
Dessert has already arrived in the glass.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Sustainability: Certified Sustainable Austria
Contains SULPHITES.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://weinrieder.at/home/
A CLASSIC BAVARIAN HELLES WITH FINE MALT, GENTLE HOPS, FRESH SPICE AND A MILD, REFRESHING FINISH.
Weihenstephaner Original Helles is a traditional Bavarian pale lager from the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest brewery, where beer has officially been brewed since 1040.
Light golden and brilliantly clear, it pours with a compact, fine-pored head of white foam. Delicate malt aromas combine with subtle floral hops and pleasantly fresh spice, creating an inviting and balanced bouquet.
A long maturation period gives the beer its smooth, rounded character. Mild and highly drinkable, the palate balances soft malt with gentle hop bitterness before a clean, refreshing finish.
Tasting notes
Delicate malt, floral hops and fresh spice shape the aroma. The smooth, full-bodied palate offers soft cereal sweetness and rounded hop flavour, followed by mild bitterness and a clean, refreshing finish.
Producer: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan
Beer: Weihenstephaner Original Helles
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Brewery location: Freising
Beer style: Bavarian Helles lager
Fermentation: Bottom-fermented
Filtration: Filtered
Malt: Light Bavarian barley malt
Hops: Hallertauer Perle
Original gravity: 11.6%
Bitterness: 21 IBU
Colour: Light golden, 6 EBC
Alcohol: 5.1% ABV
Bottle size: 500ml
Case size: 20 × 500ml bottles
Serving temperature: 6–8°C
Calories: 215 kcal per 500ml
Availability: Year-round
Shelf life: 12 months
Perfect serve
Serve at 6–8°C in a clean glass rinsed with fresh, cold water immediately before pouring.
Hold the glass at approximately 45 degrees and pour the beer slowly down its inside wall. Gradually straighten the glass as it fills to create a compact head of fine white foam.
For an authentic presentation, serve in a Weihenstephaner Isar-Seidel lager mug or Trumpf glass.
Food pairing
Weihenstephaner Original Helles pairs particularly well with hearty Bavarian food, poultry, salads, stews and cold dishes.
Bavarian cold meats
Grilled sausages
Roast chicken
Schnitzel
Pork dishes
Fresh salads
Chicken salad
Vegetable stew
Pretzels
Mild cheeses
Potato dishes
Bread and charcuterie
Cold meats and sausages complement its soft malt character, while salads and poultry suit its mild, refreshing profile. Stews, pork dishes and traditional Bavarian snacks are balanced by its gentle hop bitterness and clean finish.
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place, ideally at 4–6°C. Protect the bottles from direct sunlight and excessive heat. For the best flavour and condition, consume before the best-before date shown on the packaging.
Dietary and allergen information
Allergens: Contains barley
Gluten: Contains gluten
Vegan: Not confirmed by the producer
Vegetarian: Not confirmed by the producer
Organic: No organic certification stated
Always refer to the bottle and its accompanying packaging for definitive ingredient, allergen and dietary information.
https://www.weihenstephaner.de/en
COOKED BLUE AGAVE, BRIGHT CITRUS AND GENTLE OAK. A SMOOTH, GOLDEN REPOSADO WITH FLORAL HERBS, VANILLA AND SUBTLE CHOCOLATE.
A little time in oak changes the conversation.
Casa Don Ramón Punta Diamante Reposado begins with 100% blue agave and is double-distilled before resting for nine months in white-oak barrels. The result brings the freshness and character of the agave together with a softer, more rounded influence from the wood.
Cooked agave and citrus provide brightness, while floral and herbal notes keep the tequila lively and expressive. Vanilla, chocolate and gentle oak develop through the palate, creating depth without overwhelming the spirit beneath.
Smooth enough to sip, structured enough to mix and approachable enough to introduce drinkers to aged tequila, Punta Diamante Reposado occupies the useful ground between youthful energy and full maturity.
Patient, but not too patient.
Sometimes nine months is exactly long enough to make a good thing better.
Tasting notes
Golden in colour, with a bright and polished appearance.
Floral and herbal aromas lead the bouquet, followed by cooked agave and subtle touches of vanilla, chocolate and oak.
Smooth and rounded on the palate, with bright citrus, sweet cooked agave and fresh herbs balanced by gentle wood character. Vanilla and chocolate emerge gradually before a clean, softly spiced finish.
Producer: Casa Don Ramón
Collection: Punta Diamante
Country: Mexico
Region: Highlands of Jalisco
Spirit type: Tequila
Classification: Reposado
Agave: 100% blue agave
Distillation: Double-distilled
Maturation: Rested for nine months in white-oak barrels
Colour: Golden
Style: Smooth, herbal, citrus-led, gently oaked and subtly sweet
Alcohol: 40% ABV
Bottle size: 750ml
Perfect serve
Serve neat at room temperature or over a single large cube of ice to appreciate the balance of cooked agave, herbs, vanilla and gentle oak.
For a longer serve, pair with fresh grapefruit, lime and chilled sparkling water. The tequila’s citrus character remains bright, while its time in oak gives the drink greater roundness and depth.
Punta Diamante Reposado is also an excellent choice for a Tommy’s Margarita, Paloma or tequila-based Old Fashioned.
Give it ice if you like.
Just give it enough room to speak.
Cocktail
Reposado Tommy’s Margarita
A stripped-back Margarita that places the tequila firmly at the centre. Fresh lime lifts the cooked-agave character, while agave syrup complements the Reposado’s natural sweetness and gentle oak.
Ingredients:
50ml Casa Don Ramón Punta Diamante Reposado Tequila
25ml fresh lime juice
15ml agave syrup
Ice
Sea salt for the rim, optional
Method:
If using salt, run a lime wedge around half the rim of an Old Fashioned glass and dip it lightly into sea salt.
Add the tequila, fresh lime juice and agave syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Glassware: Old Fashioned glass
Garnish: Fresh lime wheel or wedge
Simple, balanced and entirely dependent on good tequila.
Fortunately, that part is covered.
Food pairing
Cooked agave, citrus and gentle oak make Punta Diamante Reposado particularly versatile with grilled meat, roasted vegetables, rich seafood and dishes built around smoke or spice.
Serve with:
Pork carnitas tacos
Grilled chicken with mole
Carne asada
Chilli and lime prawns
Chargrilled octopus
Baja-style fish tacos
Roasted squash with chilli and herbs
Grilled corn with lime and aged cheese
Smoked-cheese quesadillas
Dark-chocolate truffles
The tequila’s citrus and herbal notes provide freshness alongside rich meats and seafood, while its vanilla, chocolate and oak character complements grilled, roasted and lightly smoked flavours.
Its natural agave sweetness also works particularly well with mole, caramelised vegetables and dark chocolate.
A bottle that can stay for dinner.
Assuming there is any left after the aperitif.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not specifically confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
No declarable allergens are stated by the producer.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://casadonramon.com/en/tequila
CITRUS MARMALADE, ROASTED NUTS AND MARZIPAN. FOUR DECADES IN WOOD, FOLLOWED BY A FINISH THAT REFUSES TO LEAVE.
Forty years in wood leaves very little room for simplicity.
Quevedo 40 Anos Porto is an exceptionally mature Tawny assembled through the combined work of three generations: João, Oscar Sr. and Cláudia Quevedo. Their blend balances the extraordinary concentration created by prolonged ageing in the Douro with the freshness and elegance that define Quevedo’s Tawny style.
The wine is fermented traditionally in granite lagares before beginning its long maturation in seasoned chestnut casks. Wines from different harvests are blended to create a Tawny with an average age and character of 40 years. It is bottled without filtration, retaining the full depth developed during its extended maturation.
By now, youthful fruit has transformed almost completely. Citrus marmalade, dried fruit and marzipan meet nutmeg and almond essence on the nose. Roasted nuts, caramel and bitter almond follow on the palate, joined by coffee, cloves, cinnamon and ginger.
There is considerable sweetness, as one might reasonably expect, but decades of evaporation have also produced formidable acidity. That tension keeps the Port energetic, layered and remarkably composed.
Forty years to make.
Considerably less time to understand why.
Tasting notes
Amber in colour with distinctive green highlights around the edge.
The aroma is intense and complex, combining citrus marmalade, dried fruit, nutmeg, marzipan and almond essence.
High acidity gives the opening an unexpectedly sharp and energetic quality. The texture then becomes smooth and generous, revealing dried fruit, roasted nuts and caramel.
Cloves, freshly ground coffee and bitter almonds emerge through the middle. Citrus, cinnamon and ginger take control of the finish, which is powerful, intricate and exceptionally persistent.
Producer: Quevedo
Country: Portugal
Region: Douro Valley
Appellation: Porto
Category: Fortified wine
Wine type: Tawny Port with an indication of age
Age statement: 40 years
Style: Exceptionally mature, concentrated and elegantly oxidative
Grape varieties: Traditional Douro varieties; precise blend not stated by the producer
Fermentation: Traditional fermentation in granite lagares
Ageing: Matured in seasoned chestnut casks
Average age: 40 years
Filtration: Unfiltered
Master blender: Cláudia Quevedo
Colour: Amber with green highlights
Alcohol: 20% ABV
Total acidity: 5.2g/L
pH: 3.44
Residual sugar: 139g/L
Bottle size: 750ml
The 40-year designation represents the average age and mature character of the final multi-harvest blend. It does not mean that every component comes from one vintage or has spent precisely 40 years in the same cask.
Perfect serve
Serve lightly chilled at 12–14°C in a proper Port glass or small white-wine glass.
Too cold and much of its extraordinary aromatic complexity will remain hidden. Too warm and the alcohol may begin to dominate. A gentle chill allows the citrus, nuts, coffee and spices to unfold gradually as the wine warms in the glass.
Because the Port is bottled without filtration, stand the bottle upright before opening and pour carefully. Decanting is not automatically necessary, but it may be useful if you notice any sediment.
Give it time in the glass.
It has already shown considerable patience.
Cocktail serve
Forty-Year Tawny Sazerac
There is a strong argument for leaving a Port of this age entirely alone.
There is also a strong argument for making one exceptionally good cocktail.
Cognac provides structure, while the Tawny contributes marmalade, roasted nuts, caramel and spice. Absinthe and bitters sharpen the edges without attempting to hide the wine.
Ingredients
30ml Cognac
30ml Quevedo 40 Anos Porto
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
Absinthe, for rinsing the glass
Lemon peel
Method
Rinse a chilled rocks glass with a small amount of absinthe and discard the excess.
Add the Cognac, Tawny Port and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir gently until chilled, then strain into the prepared glass without ice.
Express the lemon peel over the surface and use it as the garnish.
Expensive, contemplative and entirely unsuitable for drinking in a hurry.
Food pairing
Lemon tart is an excellent match. Its sharp citrus character reflects the Port’s marmalade notes, while the pastry softens its acidity and complements the caramel developed during ageing.
Cheese is equally effective, particularly mature hard varieties or rich, creamy blue cheeses. The salt balances the Port’s sweetness and allows its roasted-nut flavours to become more pronounced.
Quevedo also recommends foie gras, where the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness while its sweetness provides contrast. (shop.quevedo.pt)
Other suitable pairings include:
Almond tart
Walnut cake
Crème brûlée
Coffee and chocolate desserts
Candied orange peel
Roasted hazelnuts
Aged Gouda
Stilton
Alternatively, serve it alone.
After 40 years, it has developed more than enough complexity to carry the conversation.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: Not confirmed by the producer
Gluten-free: Not confirmed by the producer
Certified organic: No certification stated
Contains SULPHITES.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
quevedo.pt
RIPE BANANA, HONEYDEW MELON AND CLOVE COME TOGETHER IN A SOFT, CLOUDY AND REFRESHING BAVARIAN WHEAT BEER.
Fruity, fresh and classically Bavarian, Andechser Weißbier Hell is a traditional Hefeweizen produced by Klosterbrauerei Andechs.
Cloudy and pale honey-coloured in appearance, it offers inviting aromas of ripe banana and honeydew melon, followed by characteristic notes of clove and fresh yeast.
Soft and rounded on the palate, a touch of honeyed sweetness is balanced by gentle acidity and restrained hop bitterness. Full without becoming heavy, it finishes clean, lively and properly refreshing.
Tasting notes
Pale honey in the glass, with a natural yeast haze and a thick, creamy white head.
Ripe banana and honeydew melon lead the aroma, complemented by notes of clove and fresh yeast.
Soft and rounded on the palate, with mild honeyed sweetness, fresh acidity, restrained bitterness and a clean, lively finish.
Producer: Klosterbrauerei Andechs
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Beer type: Wheat beer
Style: Hefeweizen
Fermentation: Top fermented
Colour: Pale honey
Original wort: 12.8%
Bitterness: 15 IBU
Alcohol: 5.5% ABV
Energy: 193kJ / approximately 46kcal per 100ml
Bottle size: 500ml
Perfect serve
Serve chilled at approximately 5–8°C in a tall wheat-beer glass.
Pour slowly, leaving a small amount of beer in the bottle. Gently roll the bottle to loosen the natural yeast sediment before pouring the remainder into the glass. This helps create the beer’s characteristic cloudy appearance, creamy head and full aromatic profile.
Food pairing
Andechser Weißbier Hell’s ripe fruit, gentle spice and refreshing acidity make it an excellent partner for Bavarian dishes, poultry and lightly spiced food.
Serve with:
Roast chicken
Grilled sausages
Schnitzel
Weisswurst with mustard
Mild curries
Grilled vegetables
Citrus-dressed salads
Soft cheeses
Fresh goat’s cheese
Its soft carbonation and bright acidity balance rich sausages and fried dishes, while the banana, honeydew and clove notes complement mild spices, creamy cheeses and citrus flavours.
Ingredients
Water, WHEAT MALT, BARLEY MALT, hops and yeast.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for vegetarians: Not confirmed by the producer
Suitable for coeliacs: No
Gluten-free: No
Certified organic: No certification stated
Contains WHEAT and BARLEY and therefore contains gluten.
Always check the product label before consumption, as ingredients, allergens, dietary suitability and product information may change.
andechs.de
IF FIVE YEARS BUILDS CHARACTER, EIGHT YEARS BUILDS SOMETHING CLOSER TO PHILOSOPHY.
There's a point in the ageing of a great grappa where the spirit stops developing and starts settling. Where the wood and the marc stop negotiating and reach something like understanding. Eight years is well past that point. What you find at eight years isn't a grappa that's still becoming — it's one that has fully arrived.
Sibona's Barolo 8 Anni begins in the same place as the 5 Anni — freshly harvested Nebbiolo marc from Barolo DOCG vineyards, copper pot still distillation, the full weight of licence number one behind every decision. But then comes three additional years of patience that most distilleries either can't afford or won't commit to. Sibona commits.
The result is a grappa of genuine authority. Deep, complex, and layered in ways that only time can produce — the kind of spirit that makes you put down whatever else you're doing and pay attention.
Tasting Notes
Deep mahogany amber with warm copper highlights. The nose is immediately commanding — aged leather, dried fig, toasted hazelnut and a deep thread of dark spice, with the mineral backbone of the Nebbiolo still very much present beneath. The palate is full, rich and structured — dark fruit, dark chocolate, walnut, tobacco and warm oak, with a complexity that continues to evolve in the glass. The finish is exceptionally long and layered — spice, dried fruit and warm wood fading in slow, unhurried waves.
Producer: Distilleria Sibona
Expression: Grappa Riserva Barolo 8 Anni
Appellation: Grappa di Barolo
Country: Italy
Region: Piedmont
Grape variety: Nebbiolo (Barolo DOCG marc)
Raw material: Nebbiolo marc from Barolo DOCG vineyards, freshly harvested and hand-selected
Production method: Copper pot still distillation, exclusively in-house
Ageing: Minimum 8 years in oak casks
Colour: Deep mahogany amber with warm copper highlights
ABV: 43%
Bottle sizes: 50cl
Perfect Serve
Serve at 18–20°C in a large tulip or balloon glass. This is not a spirit to rush. Allow it ten minutes in the glass before the first sip — it will reward you.
Food Pairing
At eight years, this grappa has the weight and complexity to stand alongside the most considered pairings — or to be the final word on its own.
Aged Parmigiano Reggiano — 36 months minimum
Very dark chocolate — single origin, 80% cocoa or above
Aged Pecorino Sardo or Manchego with truffle honey
Torrone, nougat and mixed aged nuts
Brasato al Barolo or slow-roasted game
A premium aged cigar — this is one of the finest pairings in the entire Sibona range
Neat, in silence, with nowhere else to be
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Replace cap firmly after opening.
Dietary and Allergen Information
No added sugar.
No artificial colouring.
Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Gluten-free.
Always check the product label before consumption, as ingredients, allergens and product information may change.
https://www.distilleriasibona.it/en/
DARK BERRIES, RIPE PLUM AND BLACK CHERRY, WRAPPED IN VANILLA, CEDAR AND CHOCOLATE. A VELVETY, FULL-FLAVOURED RED WITH A LONG, GENEROUS FINISH.
Subtle by name? Not remotely.
FAT BOY is a generous red cuvée built around ripe fruit, supple texture and plenty of character. Blackcurrant and blackberry provide the darker tones, while cherry and plum bring a softer, juicier edge.
Vanilla and cedar sit quietly beneath the fruit, lending warmth and spice without stealing the spotlight. The tannins are smoothly integrated, giving the wine structure while preserving its rich, velvety feel.
A final suggestion of chocolate lingers through the long, full-bodied finish.
Big-hearted, confidently made and unlikely to go unnoticed.
Tasting notes
Deep red with a dark, inviting appearance.
The bouquet is packed with blackcurrant, blackberry, ripe cherry and plum, followed by subtle notes of vanilla and cedar.
Full and velvety on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and a warm thread of spice. A touch of chocolate appears on the long, rounded finish.
Producer: Weingut Lergenmüller
Country: Germany
Region: Pfalz
Wine classification: Qualitätswein
Wine type: Red wine cuvée
Vintage: 2024
Taste: Off-dry
Style: Rich, dark-fruited, velvety and full-bodied
Alcohol: 14% ABV
Residual sugar: 14.4g/L
Total acidity: 5.5g/L
Serving temperature: 16°C
Bottle size: 750ml
Perfect serve
Serve at 16°C in a generous red-wine glass.
Allow the wine a little time to breathe after opening. This gives the dark fruit room to unfold and lets the vanilla, cedar and chocolate notes come forward gradually.
Bring it to the table when the food is hearty, the evening is unhurried and nobody is counting the washing-up.
Food pairing
FAT BOY has the fruit, body and gentle sweetness to accompany richly flavoured dishes, smoky sauces and warming spices.
Serve with:
Slow-cooked beef brisket
Sticky barbecue ribs
Pulled pork
Venison sausages
Smoky bean chilli
Aubergine parmigiana
Charred peppers and halloumi
Mature Cheddar
Chocolate and cherry desserts
Its ripe berry and plum character sits comfortably alongside barbecue glazes and slow-cooked meat, while the vanilla and cedar notes complement smoky, charred flavours.
Save the delicate dishes for another bottle.
Dietary and allergen information
Suitable for vegans: Yes
Suitable for vegetarians: Yes
Certified organic: No organic certification stated
Contains SULPHITES.
Always check the bottle before consumption, as ingredients and allergen information may change.
https://www.lergenmueller.com/en/
A FULL-BODIED BAVARIAN WHEAT BOCK WITH DRIED APRICOT, CITRUS, BANANA, CLOVE AND LIVELY EFFERVESCENCE.
Weihenstephaner Vitus is a pale wheat bock brewed by the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest brewery, where beer has officially been brewed since 1040.
Golden and naturally cloudy, it pours with a creamy head of fine white foam. Aromas of dried apricot and citrus introduce its expressive fruit character, accompanied by classic notes of banana and spicy clove.
Extended maturation gives Vitus a remarkably rounded and balanced character. Full-bodied and warming yet lively on the palate, it combines the strength of a traditional bock with the freshness and effervescence of a premium Bavarian wheat beer.
Tasting notes
Dried apricot and fresh citrus lead the aroma, followed by banana, clove and soft wheat malt. The palate is full-bodied, fruity and gently warming, with lively carbonation creating a refreshing, effervescent finish.
Producer: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan
Beer: Weihenstephaner Vitus
Country: Germany
Region: Bavaria
Brewery location: Freising
Beer style: Pale wheat bock
Fermentation: Top-fermented
Filtration: Unfiltered
Malt: Light Bavarian barley malt and wheat malt
Hops: Hallertauer Herkules and Hallertauer Perle
Original gravity: 16.5%
Bitterness: 17 IBU
Colour: Golden, 10 EBC
Alcohol: 7.7% ABV
Bottle size: 500ml
Case size: 20 × 500ml bottles
Serving temperature: 8–10°C
Calories: 260 kcal per 500ml
Availability: Year-round
Shelf life: Refer to the best-before date on the packaging
Perfect serve
Serve at 8–10°C in a clean, cold-rinsed Weihenstephaner Vitus wheat bock glass.
Hold the glass at approximately 45 degrees and pour slowly, leaving a small amount of beer in the bottle. Gently swirl the remaining beer to lift the natural yeast sediment, then pour it into the glass to form a generous, creamy head.
Its higher strength and complex fruit character are best appreciated when the beer is allowed to warm slightly in the glass.
Food pairing
Weihenstephaner Vitus pairs particularly well with substantial meat dishes, spicy cheeses and rich desserts.
Roast beef
Grilled steak
Roast pork
Venison
Game dishes
Duck
Spicy sausages
Mature cheese
Blue cheese
Apricot tart
Banana bread
Fruit-based desserts
Rich meat dishes complement its full body and warming strength, while mature and spicy cheeses balance its fruity sweetness. Apricot, banana and other fruit-based desserts reflect the beer’s distinctive fermentation aromas.
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place, ideally at 4–6°C. Protect the bottles from direct sunlight and excessive heat. For the best flavour and condition, consume before the best-before date shown on the packaging.
Dietary and allergen information
Allergens: Contains barley and wheat
Gluten: Contains gluten
Vegan: Not confirmed by the producer
Vegetarian: Not confirmed by the producer
Organic: No organic certification stated
Always refer to the bottle and its accompanying packaging for definitive ingredient, allergen and dietary information.
https://www.weihenstephaner.de/en
— discovery new liquid elements, speak to us today
— discovery new liquid elements, speak to us today
— NOT YOUR TYPICAL DISTIBUTOR
— NOT YOUR TYPICAL DISTIBUTOR
If you make something extraordinary and you're wondering whether Hong Kong is ready for it — the short answer is yes. The longer answer is: it depends entirely on who's representing you.
We work alongside the people who make the liquid — not above them, not at arm's length. When you join the ALCOLOGY portfolio, we don't just open doors in Hong Kong. We walk through them with you.
YOUR BOTTLE DOESN'T
GO INTO A WAREHOUSE.
IT GOES INTO
THE RIGHT HANDS
work with us
OUR PARTNERS
