DRINKS edit

TROPICAL NOD

If you’re looking for a warming tipple that hints at sunnier climes, Black Collar Distillery’s Spiced Pineapple Rum hits the mark. Made from ripe, juicy pineapples which are slow-roasted over a bed of hot coconut charcoal then infused into Black Collar Rum and barrel rested, it’s not overly sweet and is delicious enough to be enjoyed neat as a winter sipper. $74.95 from blackcollardistillery.com.

DARK AND DREAMY

Garage Project’s popular Snug Irish Stout has now been packaged in a nitro can so you can enjoy a pint at home anytime. Give the can a couple of shakes, crack the lid, pour into a glass and watch as a cascade of tiny nitrogen bubbles slowly rise to form a creamy head atop this silky smooth, pitch black stout. $7.99 from some supermarkets and liquor stores or from garageproject.co.nz.

MOCKTAIL MAGIC

Make sure your non-drinking friends are well taken care of at your next cocktail party with a Black Pineapple cocktail kit in partnership with alcohol-free spirit company Seedlip. There are several kits to choose from, including a Cinnamon, Spice and All Things Nice Kit (pictured). Prices start at $59 for two people, allowing four fresh cocktails, with a range of bundled options including a pro bar kit and Spiegelau crystal glassware. Visit blackpineapple.co.nz.

THE SPICE IS RIGHT

Revel in the zing and mild sweetness of real ginger in Zeffer’s light, golden Alcoholic Ginger Beer, made using fermented ginger root and its freshly crushed apple cider. It’s a proper ginger hit with a lingering finish, perfect for winter. $12.99 from New World, some Pak’nSave and liquor stores or from zeffer.co.nz.

TASTE OF THE SOUTH

Broken Heart Spirits owner and master distiller Joerg Henkenhaf describes his Queenstown Edition Gin as “Queenstown in a bottle”. Awarded gold at the NZ Spirits Awards 2021, the gin was created to celebrate the company’s ninth birthday and is a warming and rounded drop. Serve with tonic and a sprig of thyme or rosemary. $89.99 from brokenheartspirits.com.