Journal
Guides & bar culture
Original guides for SEO and readers — home bars, ingredients, pubs and winter hosting. Pair with the cocktail generator when your shelf is oddly stocked.
- Home bar·1 min read
How to stock a home bar for under £75: a UK guide
Build a functional home bar on a tight budget with five essential spirits, mixers and glassware. This practical guide shows exactly what to buy and where to save money at UK supermarkets.
Read article → - Spirits 101·1 min read
Three Ingredient Whisky Cocktails: Easy UK Home Bar Recipes
Master simple three-ingredient whisky cocktails perfect for UK home bars. Learn classic recipes, ratios and variations that deliver pub-quality drinks with minimal fuss.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
How to Make a Mojito Without Fresh Mint
Fresh mint isn't always in the cupboard when a mojito craving strikes. We've tested substitutes—from dried mint to liqueurs—so you can make a proper mojito at home, any time.
Read article → - Spirits 101·1 min read
Best supermarket own-brand spirits for cocktails UK
Own-brand spirits from Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons deliver solid cocktails at half the price of premium labels. We've tested the best value gins, vodkas, rums and whiskeys for home bars.
Read article → - Spirits 101·1 min read
How to Make a Proper Espresso Martini Without a Shaker
You don't need a cocktail shaker to make a silky espresso martini at home. We show you three foolproof methods using kitchen kit you already own.
Read article → - Culture·1 min read
Non-Alcoholic Mocktails for a UK Garden Party
Serve impressive mocktails at your summer garden party with simple recipes using supermarket ingredients and no special equipment. Keep guests refreshed with elegant, flavourful drinks that rival alcoholic cocktails.
Read article → - Ingredients·1 min read
Summer garden cocktails with supermarket ice: UK home bar guide
Make refreshing garden cocktails at home using standard supermarket ice cubes and spirits you'll find in Tesco or Sainsbury's. Learn cooling techniques, recipes, and pro tips for outdoor entertaining without special equipment.
Read article → - Seasonal·1 min read
Warm winter cocktails without a cocktail kit UK
Mix hot cocktails at home using only a spoon and mugs—no fancy shakers or bar tools needed. Learn simple winter drink recipes perfect for UK kitchens and cosy nights in.
Read article → - Culture·1 min read
Batch cocktails for six people under £20 UK
Make a big-batch cocktail for six on a tight budget using supermarket spirits and simple ratios. We show you three £20 recipes that feed a crowd without compromise on flavour.
Read article → - Ingredients·1 min read
Cocktails Using Only Fridge Door Ingredients UK
Make proper cocktails with just what's already on your fridge shelf—no fancy liqueurs or bitters needed. We've tested five brilliant recipes using everyday UK staples.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
What to Mix with Baileys Besides Coffee: 7 Easy Alternatives
Baileys Irish Cream mixes brilliantly beyond coffee—try hot chocolate, cola, cream sodas, or dessert cocktails. We've found seven simple two-ingredient combinations that work in any home bar.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
What to Mix with Disaronno If You Only Have Basic Mixers
Disaronno shines with everyday kitchen staples—cola, lemonade, ginger ale, and juice. Learn five simple two-ingredient combos and one no-shaker method that work with supermarket mixers.
Read article →