Store this batch cocktail in a glass bottle in the fridge, so it's ice-cold and ready to go whenever the need arises over the festive period; alternatively, bottle and gift it to a loved one or friend. It's a citrussy, martini-style union of sake from Peckham, Japanese vodka and London dry gin. Yuzu vesper Serves 8+ For the jasmine syrup 25ml brewed jasmine tea 25g cane sugar For the drink 2 tsp jasmine silver needle tea leaves 300ml London dry gin, a herbaceous one, ideally
Stepping into Caviar House in Piccadilly feels like entering a world where luxury and comfort meet effortlessly. Known for its caviar heritage, the restaurant does not disappoint when it comes to other delicacies either, especially its sushi and sake. The sushi is impeccably fresh and beautifully presented, each piece clearly crafted with care. Pairing it with sake elevates the experience even further, balancing the delicate flavours perfectly.
When your plane lands in Japan, one of the first things a foodie must do is visit the historic Fushimi district for a taste of sake. Depending on the bottle you buy and the exact distilling technique, you'll experience a diverse range of flavors, from sweet to earthy or even sharp tasting. Of course, before you crack open all the bottles you buy, you probably want to know which sake lasts the longest.
I've had the pleasure of visiting Japan twice in the recent past, and it's quickly become one of my favorite places in the world. Everyone is organized and polite, there are bidets everywhere, the food is outstanding and, maybe best of all, Japanese people love to drink. From Tokyo's neon-lit karaoke rooms and elegant cocktail bars to the buzzing izakayas of Osaka, the drinking culture of Japan is woven into daily life, seasonal festivals and centuries-old traditions.