From a vibrant holiday soirée to a collaboration with an esteemed artist, here are the latest events and releases in the world of fine spirits.
Nothing rings in the festivities better than the clinking of bubbly champagne flutes and the camaraderie shared between sips of festive cocktails. Spirits have always been an integral part of the holiday celebrations, both as companions to special gatherings and prized gifts. A number of liquor brands recently mounted exciting events and launched new product lines just in time for the season.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just curious about the latest in the industry, here are a few occasions that garnered excitement.
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Artistic Spirits: Johnnie Walker Blue Label Luxury Artist Series x Anna Bautisa
Johnnie Walker has long collaborated with a variety of local artists for its limited edition Blue Label Luxury Artist Series. Its most recent partnership was with visual artist and art director Anna Bautista: a collection of three unique bottle designs inspired by the animal jewels of Cebu, Bohol, and Davao. This comes shortly after Bautista gained international recognition and acclaim in Italy through a collaborative exhibition with the European Cultural Centre.
The Davao bottle features the majestic Philippine eagle, depicted alongside the region’s natural treasures such as the Waling-Waling orchid, the Mickey Mouse plant, the Durian, and Mount Apo.
Meanwhile, the Bohol bottle celebrates the delicate tarsier amidst fireflies, with additional elements including the cacao plant, wildflowers, and the iconic Chocolate Hills.
Finally, the Cebu bottle showcases the graceful Philippine Whale Shark, or Butanding, set against the vibrant marine life of the province while accompanied by the Philippine Sampaguita, the Cebu Flowerpecker bird, and various aquatic elements. If you’re looking to give a nice gift that acts as both a delicious liquor and collectible art piece — or are a collector of Johnnie Walker’s Blue label Luxury Artist Series pieces — the new release is certainly something to check out for the holidays.
Hendrick’s Gin: The Secret Soirée, A Christmas Wonderland
Hendrick’s Gin launched the holiday season in style with an intimate afternoon soirée that evoked the festive spirit in every way. Guests got to take photos, have themselves painted in charming watercolors by artists, and create colorful Christmas wreaths made from real pine trees before enjoying a spread of delightful dishes paired with refreshing cocktails made with the distinct Hendrick’s Gin, each drink curated by Hendrick’s SEA Brand Ambassador Charmaine Thio. These included the Hendrick’s French 75, Cranberry Fizz, and of course, its classic Hendrick’s & Tonic — all refreshing and tasty cocktails that anyone can make at home for Christmas gatherings big and small.
Ideal for the holidays, the Hendrick’s French 75 is a lavish blend of Hendrick’s Gin and zesty lemon juice with a splash of Champagne, yielding effervescent, crisp citrus notes that make it the perfect drink for raising a toast. Meanwhile, the Hendrick’s Cranberry Fizz was a bright red-pink cocktail that featured Hendrick’s Gin, tart cranberry juice, and a choice of soda or sparkling wine, making it a refreshing crowd-pleaser with a seasonal twist. Last but certainly not least was the beloved Hendrick’s & Tonic, which brings out the unique botanical notes of Hendrick’s Gin through tonic water and cucumber garnishes.
Acapella group Acapellago also entertained guests with soaring and bright holiday classics as they indulged in the wonderful feast.
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift, Hendrick’s Gin is a versatile and thoughtful present for any gin enthusiast. Its distinct flavor profile and beautifully designed bottle make it a standout gift, ideal for hosts, friends, or anyone who appreciates a touch of the extraordinary.
Rosy Celebration : Don Julio Rosado Launches In The Philippines
Leading luxury tequila brand Don Julio recently launched its latest product, the Don Julio Rosado, which made its highly anticipated debut in the country through a dazzling event that transformed Uma Nota in Bonifacio Global City into a vibrant pink paradise, immersing guests in a world of glamor, music, and unparalleled experiences.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the grand introduction of Don Julio Rosado—a distinctive tequila that captivated the senses with its delicate pink hue and smooth, fruity notes. Crafted to perfection, Don Julio Rosado is a reposado tequila aged in Ruby Port wine casks from the enchanting Douro wine region of Northern Portugal. This rare aging process imparts a harmonious blend of sweet dried red fruits, caramel, and subtle hints of oak, creating a smooth, well-rounded profile unlike any other.
Among the four signature serves was the Rosado Shot, featuring Don Julio Rosado paired with a grapefruit wedge for a vibrant twist. The Rosado Spritz combined the tequila with edible glitter and a playful cotton candy garnish, offering a sparkling taste experience. The Passion Play cocktail blended Don Julio Rosado with passionfruit, lime, and honey, finished with a disco ball garnish. Rounding out the selection was the Picture Perfect, a show-stopping cocktail where guests could have their own faces or custom designs printed on the velvety foam. Each drink showcased the smooth, vibrant character of Don Julio Rosado, elevating the evening’s unforgettable atmosphere.
Banner photo by Marcelo Verfe via Pexels.
