As we look out of the window, there’s snow on the ground. If you’re eager to pop on a hat, pull on your boots and get out there, we have a few hot tips from our distillers, Joao and Dan.

Their cosy winter serves and favoured flask-fillers will warm your cockles on a walk or thaw you out when you get back home.

Joao’s Hip Flask Faves

“Our approachable Single Malt Whisky is mainly matured in new French oak, but there’s also a touch of bourbon-cask influence. It’s smooth, rich, and gently warming, with notes of honeyed fruit, vanilla, caramel and soft spice. It’s an easy-drinking malt that delivers comfort and warmth without being overpowering, making it ideal for sipping neat from your hip flask on a cold, crisp walk.

“If you are looking for something with a bit more heat and depth, Adnams Rye Malt Whisky is full-bodied and naturally warming, with peppery spice, vanilla, raisin fudge and lingering coffee notes. It’s a brilliant winter warmer.

“Adnams Sloe Gin is a traditional English sloe gin, made by steeping hand-picked sloe berries in our Copper House Dry Gin. It’s soft, fruity and gently warming, with flavours of plum, cherry and a hint of marzipan. Its smooth, rounded character makes it ideal for sipping neat from a flask or I’d add it to hot apple juice for a cosy winter serve when you get home.

“While great with tonic, First Rate Gin really shines neat. This bold London Dry gin is redistilled from Adnams’ award-winning Longshore vodka, using 13 botanicals including juniper, citrus peel and warming spices. Its higher ABV, juniper backbone and subtle spice give it a surprising warmth that would work brilliantly on a winter walk, offering something refreshing yet comforting.”

Dan’s winter warmers

“I had a bit of cold between Christmas and new year and turned to the classic hot toddy. You just need a quality whisky, honey, lemon and hot water and you’re good to go. I use Adnams Rye Malt Whisky because it has that subtle spicy note to it, for some added depth of flavour on dilution.

“I really enjoy a mulled sloe gin after braving the elements. I put Adnams Sloe Gin in the slow cooker along with a bit of star anise, some cinnamon, cloves, and some orange peel, and then just leave it on low and it’s ready when you get back. It’s the perfect way to warm up after taking the dog out for a walk.

“Another delicious warm serve is achieved by adding a splash of coffee syrup to your favourite gin. I like using gingerbread syrup. Add 50ml of that to 25ml of First Rate Gin, then add hot water and a slice of lemon. I like this combination of flavours because First Rate has lots of lovely liquorice notes that really work with the gingerbread.

“I’m a bit of a coffee addict, so another favourite has got to be a classic Irish Coffee using our whisky. I always use Adnams Triple Malt Whisky because it has amazing chocolate and coconut flavours. We use wheat in this whisky, which adds a creaminess that complements the cream on top. There is always something satisfying about balancing the cream on top of the coffee.”

If you are looking for a little bit of something good, why not give them a shot?