Unveiling the Life of a Drinks Taster: Secrets of the Trade
“I’ve got another parcel for 86. It’s booze again,” jokes a neighbor. As a drinks writer for over a decade, receiving and testing alcohol for reviews has become a regular part of Joanne Gould’s routine. From bottles of gin to spritzes and wines, life as a drinks taster is unique and, at times, misunderstood by friends, neighbors, and curious onlookers.
“I’ve been writing about drinks for ten years, so yes, I have to drink them,” Joanne explains. Testing spirits is an art and a science. Typically, she begins with research, exploring the ingredients, production methods, and serving recommendations. Only after meticulous background work does the tasting begin, often around 4 PM (to avoid interfering with the school run).
While some drinks get mixed and sipped, others, like wine or spirits she finds too sharp, are responsibly sampled and spat out. “It takes a few weeks to complete a review, as I try not to drink daily. I aim for a balance,” she shares.
Crafting the Perfect List
When creating her iconic shortlists, Joanne delves deep. For gin reviews, she explores various serves: paired with tonics, botanical garnishes, or even as part of cocktails. According to her recent tests, Hernö Gins – especially the Old Tom, Six Rivers, and Juniper Cask – were standout options. “They offered great versatility and impeccable taste,” she noted.
When it comes to spritzes, Joanne’s approach shifts. The goal? To appeal to diverse flavor profiles. Italicus and Bellamie emerged as top picks for their light, summery, and refreshing notes. These selections not only showcase quality ingredients but also emphasize the importance of drinkability.
“My drinks collection has grown substantially, and while miniatures would be practical, full bottles often need to be rehomed. Local donation sites like Olio or even my children’s school bottle tombola often benefit!” Joanne laughs.
Tips to Stay Cool This Summer
As heatwaves continue to sweep across the UK, staying cool is a top priority. Beyond sipping refreshing spritzes, investing in cooling gadgets might be the game changer you need. Reviewers have tested everything from handheld fans to air coolers, which combine water usage with energy efficiency to cool the surrounding area effectively. To maximize their efficiency, consider pairing them with a reusable water mist bottle for on-the-go hydration.
Looking for recommendations? The Dyson Cool Me™ personal air purifier fan is a top-rated choice for compact cooling power. Check it out on Dyson’s website.
Must-Have Reusable Water Bottles
Whether you’re bracing the heat or heading out for a fitness session, hydration is key. Reusable water bottles like the Hydro Flask have gained popularity for their ability to keep beverages cold for hours. Durable, sustainable, and available in various designs, this is one accessory you’ll never leave home without.
Trend Alert: Short Shorts Are Back!
From Paul Mescal’s red-carpet looks to Alexander Skarsgård’s onscreen appearances, short shorts are making waves this summer. Stylist Peter Bevan offers valuable guidance on styling this bold trend for any occasion. Versatile and comfortable, short shorts are timeless, proving their relevance decade after decade.
Quality That Lasts: Timeless Gifting Ideas
In an age of disposable products, which gifts have stood the test of time? Whether it’s a sleek leather bag, durable cookware, or high-quality jewelry, lasting gifts are those crafted with care and meant to endure. Think thoughtfully designed items like Le Creuset cookware – a perfect wedding or housewarming gift, now and forever cherished.