Food and Drink

The connection between Dom Pérignon and the pioneering Benedictine monk from which it takes its name is not as simple as is often stated. Although he is sometimes credited with it, Pierre Pérignon (the ‘Dom’ is an honorific, derived from Dominus, for monks from the order) was not responsible for the creation of sparkling wine. […]

Akvavit has been a Scandinavian favourite for centuries. The spirit’s name is derived from the Latin aqua vitae, or ‘water of life’ (as indeed is the word ‘whisky’, which comes via the Gaelic equivalent of the phrase). Like vodka, it is distilled from either grain or potatoes and is then flavoured with herbs, spices or […]

Gin has undergone a remarkable resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many new brands and flavours emerging. There are some older producers, though, with a heritage even stronger than the gin they create. One English name in the art of distilled juniper berries that can be traced back more than 130 years is Beefeater […]