VENUE
INSIGHT
NIGHT TIME INDUSTRY MAGAZINE OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2015
voidacoustics.com 5 Top London Venues
Q&A with Alex Proud
The Social Festival
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A Peep at Le Peep Boutique
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Growing together
Contents
Welcome to the October / November issue of Venue Insight. With the great response to the first issue we have stepped up our game in the design aspect with our new designer Karl, who has been working day and night to offer the most visually pleasing publication possible. In this issue, we will cover the all important industry news, a very special interview with multiple venue operator and TV personality Alex Proud and a new nightclub opening in Derby for the over 35’s! We also look at new gadgets and machines which are now behind your trendy cocktail! The Venue Insight this month is award winning and new, Le Peep Boutique which has a mind blowing amount of support due to its richly evocative interior and inspired by the high style of 1920’s Paris! With a recent landmark court case win for the night time industry for London based club KOKO against a housing development, we look at this triumph and hope this could this be the start of the upturn in the night time industry. We hope you enjoy the read and look forward to seeing and reporting what happens over the busy Christmas trade months.
David Sullivan
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Editor David Sullivan editor@venue-insight.com 01634 568927 Publication ManagerS Andy Morfey andy@venue-insight.com 01634 568928 Jon McIntosh jon@venue-insight.com 01634 568928 Design Karl Speller design@venue-insight.com 01634 568927 publisher Robert Robinson Crystal Design & Media Ltd 01634 568925
Features
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5. Foster’s new humourous short film series staring Rick Edwards 8. Derby nightclub for the over 35’s!
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10. Top 5 music venues in London 14. Q&A interview with Alex Proud 20. Amazing new drinks gadgets
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22. The Social Festival 2015 36. Le Peep Boutique 48. Cocktail Recipes
Crystal Design & Media Ltd and the publication Venue Insight Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or the accuracy of information received. All material will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication under copyright and within the editors rights to edit and offer comment. All editorial contributions are to be sent to: editor@venue-insight.com www.venue-insight.com
Front Cover image supplied by VOID 3 3
News
Deltic Trading bucks the trend
Following three years of consecutive growth, the UK’s largest clubs and bar operator, The Deltic Group has announced a sales increase of 15.5% in the 26 weeks to 29 August, with like for like sales up 7.5%. Peter Marks, Chief Executive of The Deltic Group comments:
“There’s been plenty of speculation about the health of the UK nightclub sector. Our consistently strong performance is testament to the fact that there is still huge consumer appetite for a big night out experience; something that only clubs can deliver.” Deltic’s refurbishment programme continues to deliver results with the company poised to make the single biggest investment in a UK regional club
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for ten years. The £3m investment in Basildon will create a new triple scene club with a roof terrace bar that will offer the latest in entertainment and service standards. In addition, Deltic has already completed five refurbishments this year (Camberley, Andover, Ipswich, Exeter and Oxford), with circa £5m earmarked for five additional sites scheduled to open before Christmas, which in addition to Basildon include its first Bar & Beyond concept in Chelmsford and venues in Canterbury, Windsor and Tamworth. As part of its tactical acquisition strategy,
the company has just expanded its 57-strong portfolio with the addition of Play, a 1,000 capacity club in Hereford. Deltic has also completed banking arrangements with HSBC a new partner to the Group, which has agreed to provide a £10m term loan and £5m revolving credit facility, which will be used to partially repay shareholder loans, invest in existing sites and fund future acquisitions. “The fact that we’ve secured new banking facilities with HSBC and our continued sales growth, proves there’s still real upside in the sector for strong operators with wellinvested venues,” concluded Peter. www.venue-insight.com
News
Foster’s brings heritage to life with new short film series
Foster’s, the UK’s number 1 lager, is bringing its heritage and sense of humour to the fore this month with a series of short films starring TV personality Rick Edwards, telling the story of its founders, brothers William and Ralph Foster. The activity sees Rick, known for presenting a variety of Channel 4 and E4 shows including Tool Academy and Freshly Squeezed, recreate the trials that William and Ralph Foster endured 127 years ago to create the perfect lager.
The films, which aim to provide a real insight into the iconic Australian brand, see Rick undertaking a series of challenges ranging from transporting giant blocks of ice and constructing machinery involved in the brewing process, to tracking down legendary Australian yeast. The series of films document Rick’s journey in the outback and will be available to view on YouTube and across Foster’s social media channels from 17th September. Ifeoma Dozie, Brand Director at Heineken said: “The story behind a brand is becoming an increasingly important factor for consumers when choosing a lager. We are very proud of our Australian www.venue-insight.com
heritage and felt the story of the Foster’s brothers is one worth telling. This series taps into this need, offering drinkers an in-depth insight into Foster’s history and increasing interest in the brand across the market. We’re confident our partnership with Rick will help the brand connect to a new generation of consumers and raise the profile of the brand and its heritage among a younger audience.”
“Beer is close to my heart, and ice cold beer even more so. I don’t think beer drinkers realise the lengths that William & Ralph went to back in 1888 to create Foster’s. The opportunity to recreate their trials in the outback was an exciting one, and I’m pleased to be able to give everyone the beer education I’ve just had! I definitely have a new found respect for Foster’s, having experienced first-hand how much dedication went into the brewing process all those years ago.” Rick Edwards
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News
Camden nightclub wins legal battle to block pub conversion A historic Camden nightspot has triumphed in its High Court fight to block plans to convert the pub next door into flats after a judge ruled that councillors’ attention had not been drawn to the potential heritage impact of the development. Koko, a late night club and live performance venue at 1A Camden High Street, occupies a landmark listed building of national importance. Its owners, Obar Camden Ltd, fiercely objected to plans to convert the next door Hope and Anchor pub into eight new flats. The developers behind the scheme, Vidacraft Ltd, also planned to build a three-storey extension and either shops or estate agent’s offices on the ground floor. Obar launched a legal challenge after the London Borough of Camden granted full planning permission for the project earlier this year. The club’s lawyers argued the development had no place in the Camden street scene and would be at odds with the area’s character. Residents of the new flats would be likely to complain about noise from Koko and other nearby venues and the project posed a threat to local businesses, it was claimed. High Court judge Mr Justice Stewart this week quashed the planning permission. He said councillors’ attention had not been drawn to the potential impact
Above: Koko of the development on Koko’s premises and other local heritage assets. The setting of listed buildings and the character ofthe conservation area had to be given “considerable importance and weight”, he added. Although a planning officer had been convinced the development would cause no harm, the judge said the decision making process had been “truncated”.
Nightclub Drama: ‘chaotic utopia of hedonism’ opens in Mayfair
Drama is the brainchild of entrepreneur Nick House of Mahiki and Whisky Mist, and Ryan Bish and Tom Berg of Cirque Le Soir. It features a gold room, a wall made from Japanese cat (Maneki-Neko) figurines and banana-scented wallpaper from New York. Champagne is served in neon supermarket trolleys. At the opening of the 300-capacity club in Hertford Street, Mayfair, guests were served by staff wearing fetish clothing, PVC bow ties and flashing LEDs. House, whose other projects have included Steam & Rye in Bank and Bodo’s Schloss in Kensington said: “London nightlife is a very competitive environment which in turn means one is always having to raise the bar to succeed.”
Drama, launched by nightclub impresarios Nick House, Ryan Bish and Tom Berg, serves champagne in neon supermarket trolleys The impresarios behind some of London’s leading celebrity hotspots have joined forces to open a nightclub that promises to be a “chaotic utopia of hedonism”.
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He said he had wanted to work with Bish and Berg whose circus-themed club in Soho, Cirque Le Soir, has been attended by Cara Delevingne, Rihanna and Miley Cyrus because they are “world-beating in terms of entertainment and hedonism”. He added: “I do fun places, sometimes a little bit ironic, and these guys are certainly known for doing very fun, wildly entertaining places. They’re the front runners on theatrical aspects of nightlife.” Drama has 500 founding members which House claims will “become the drama”. Open Thursdays to Sundays, it will play an “eclectic” range of music. Top left: Drama Alex Lentati www.venue-insight.com
News
Jack Daniel’s sets the category alight with new Tennessee Fire Jack Daniel’s has expanded its core range with the introduction of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, a hot cinnamon flavoured variant, now available in pubs and bars across the UK. Positioned for the late night shot occasion as a straight up serve, the new fiery expression is crafted with Jack Daniel’s original Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey blended with a cinnamon liqueur, resulting in a taste that is authentically Jack in flavour, but with an enticing, warm finish. The official launch of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire to the on trade follows one of the most successful trial periods the brand has ever undertaken in the UK, demonstrating the strong growth potential that remains in the ‘Flavours’ category in the UK market. Positioned for the late night shot occasion as a straight up serve, the new fiery expression is crafted with Jack Daniel’s original Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey blended with a cinnamon liqueur, resulting in a taste that is authentically Jack in flavour, but with an enticing, warm finish.
The official launch of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire to the on trade follows one of the most successful trial periods the brand has ever undertaken in the UK, demonstrating the strong growth potential that remains in the ‘Flavours’ category in the UK market. category in the UK market.
Cavo Paradiso Located on the stunning Greek party island of Mykonos, leading nightclub Cavo Paradiso has been showcasing the hottest dancefloor trends for over two decades. Offering a pool-side dancefloor with panoramic sea views and state-of-art sound-system, the cliff-top venue has, this year alone, welcomed a massive list of internationally sought after DJ talent in the form of Zedd, Richie Hawtin, Alesso, Sven Vath, Fatboy Slim, Marco Carola and Armin Van Buuren.
sets and marathon back to backs, seeing the likes of John Digweed and his amazing 11 hour show in 2001 and David Morales’ consecutive birthday celebrations since its opening. Now, the club has established itself as an essential fixture on the international clubbing calendar, with Resident Advisor calling it, “one of Europe’s biggest and most beautiful nightclubs”. Cavo Paradiso ensures Mykonos is firmly on the map as a strong contender for the new Ibiza and can truly hold its own against the white island’s parties.
In its early stages, the club existed as an after hours party venue having been built in 1993 with locals expressing their doubts at whether anyone would leave Mykonos town to party on a deserted hill top. The architectural design was developed through various stages with total respect for its natural surroundings, ensuring its harmonious existence with the wild beauty that the island and the Aegean archipelago has to offer. The club rose to fame for its sunrise
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News
New Derby nightclub - for the over-35s When an industry goes into decline – as is the case with UK nightclubs – it’s time to do something different, which is why Steve may be about to pull off a masterstroke. Nearly half the UK’s nightclubs have shut their doors in just 10 years according to recent reports and subsequent analysis has looked at why students and young adults were no longer heading for their doors.
Soon, there will be a nightclub in Derby with an admission policy for the over-35s only. It is being launched by Nottingham music promoter Steve Edwards, who says there is a market for club nights that reject young ‘uns. They will be held once a month at Queens Hall, in London Road – a former Methodist church that today is used for parties, conferences and wedding receptions. Steve says the idea is to plug a noticeable gap in Derby’s nightlife market.
Few, if any, questions were asked about why over-35s were steering clear of nightclubs – and Steve says that was a mistake because they could be the age group that could save the industry. He says: “Thirty-five is the kind of age where their kids are now grown-up and so they can go out again. They need somewhere to go in Derby and it’s a case of them not having to go to the city centre and mixing with a younger crowd. It’s something of their own. It’s also a good location for it. Parking won’t be a problem as there’s a car park in the next street that’s free after 8pm, and there’s a small car at the back of this building.”
“It’s something new in Derby that’s going to become the place to be. It’s a community thing for everyone over 35. At the moment, a lot of them go out in Nottingham because there’s not much in Derby for them. This is about keeping people in Derby.” Steve Edwards
Tickets for the launch night cost £16.50-£20. For details, visit www.soulshowcase.co.uk. Those will book online can receive a 25% discount by entering the code: EARLY35.
“There’ll be DJs playing different genres of music, ie, soul, Motown, funk and R&B – all those different types across the board, aimed at people aged 35 to 75. They’ll be able to come down and reminisce, as well as have a dance and a drink. We’re also lining up a host of tribute acts such as Abba, Bee Gees and The Blues Brothers, etc. They’ll all be groups and artists from the 1970s and 80s. And we’re looking to showcase local bands and talent.” The opening night will be Friday, October 16. First, there will be performances by tribute acts to Heather Small and The American Four Tops. Then, DJ Waxy and DJ Steve Handsley will get people in the party mood with soul and Motown hits. Steve – whose company is called Soul Showcase Events – says: “The American Four Tops tribute act is a really good one. They play all over the country and are very popular. And the artist singing as Heather Small was once a finalist on Stars in their Eyes, so she’s very good as well.”
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5 Top London Venues
CARGO A quick look at Cargo’s live music listings reveals everything from psychedelic rock to jazz, hip-hop to electronic pop. Located underneath railway arches in Shoreditch, Cargo is at the centre of East London’s music scene. The venue also hosts regular DJ nights and offers a tasty bar menu.
CORSICA STUDIOS One of London’s first warehouse venues, in the last 10 years, Corsica Studios has become a highly regarded and awardwinning venue. Offers a diverse events programme, from top promoters to in-house club nights.
EGG LONDON A venue like no other, Egg London continues to push the boundaries. With the best music from the world’s greatest DJs, mixing with the best sound and lighting available, this club combines a variety of spaces indoors and outdoors along with a 24 hour licence. With an eclectic mix of nights, there’s something for all kinds of dance music fans to enjoy. Acts such as Dubfire, Laurent Garnier, Derrick May, Danny Tengalia and Kevin Saunderson have all played at the club in recent times.
ELECTRIC BRIXTON Electric Brixton opened its doors in September 2011 following a million pound investment, maintaining many of the club’s original features and installing a new sound system. This is one of South London’s best dance venues, hosting regular drum’n’bass, electronica and dance nights, plus big name DJs and live acts.
FABRIC Fabric is a legendary mega-club, playing a variety of electro, house music, breakbeat, and drum’n’bass. It has forged a worldwide reputation of excellence by consistently hosting quality musical acts without being afraid to bring in new and diverse talents. Although there are no specific student nights at Fabric, students can enjoy reduced entry prices every night of the week as long as they have relevant ID with them.
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Trends
Everything you need to know about alcohol in 2015 Refreshing ideas, tasty products and must-have gadgets to make your drinking experience more exciting. Flavour trends
Bottled cocktails
At a recent meeting with several influential bartenders in London, I posed a question about where these seasoned experts felt the next cocktail flavours and trends would come from - which stimulated some very interesting responses.
In his marvellous book Everyday Drinking, Kingsley Amis surmised that the death of the Jazz Age cocktail movement back in the 1930’s was in part down to the fact that wealthy party hosts no longer kept servants and that to produce a round of fresh cocktails meant that the host was essentially missing out on the party, spending more time behind the bar than socialising.
With the popularity of Asian food at the moment, especially all things Korean, expect there to be a few unusually savoury or highly spiced cocktails and ingredients hitting the menus of some of the UK’s most progressive bars. Speciality teas, Yuzu (a citrus fruit, the juice of which, can be infused with honey) and all manner of imported herbs and spices will give a few tried-and-tested classics a newly discovered Asian twist. Similarly, keep an eye out for the all-conquering Korean spirit, Soju. This low abv tipple is similar in flavour to vodka (i.e. it has none at all) but the flagship brand, Jinro, is the world’s biggest selling spirit, with around a staggering 61 million cases sold last year. Some companies are capitalising on the shift to far eastern flavours, creating innovative hybrids of spirits. One of the most likely to cause a stir in the cocktail community is Jinzu - a gin created in partnership by Bristol bartender Dee Davies and drinks giant Diageo - which lists cherry blossom and distilled saki as two of its botanical ingredients. Jinzu gives a really unusual, dry-yet-floral twist to a classic Martini.
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One could argue that the same applies to today’s home cocktail experience, but fortunately, help is at hand from some of the most pioneering bartenders and retailers. Bottled, or pre-made cocktails (the overly syrupy kind you find on some supermarket shelves) have always been viewed with caution by true drinks connoisseurs. However expect to see a wholly different type of bottled cocktail hitting the shelves this year, with bartenders like White Lyan’s Ryan Chetiyawardana and spirits retailer Master Of Malt bucking the trend towards high-end, thoughtfully crafted classics and bespoke offerings. The best bit is that all one needs to do is simply chill down the contents, or stir over ice and add a garnish. All the hard work of sourcing premium ingredients in the right quantities is done for you, so all you have to worry about is the standard of conversation, as your party guests get merrier by the glass.
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Trends
The rise of truly underrated spirits
The ‘must have’ gadgets
As we see the current crop of darling/uber cool spirits (particularly Scotch whisky, small batch bourbon and premium gin) become increasingly more expensive and therefore, more unobtainable to some drinkers, we’re likely to see an emergence of spirits you thought you should know more about, but never had the time to ask about.
Like the moment when you suddenly just had to have a chef’s blowtorch to caramelise your shallots, the gadgetry surrounding drinks has jumped up a notch for 2015. Whether you can actually live without these is debatable, but my 2015 shopping list is topped by the wonderfully designed citrus zester, (Mista Citrus - £6.99) perfect for adding an extra fresh zing to Martinis and Manhattans.
Armagnac, the brandy produced in the Gers region of rural South West France is without doubt as equally complex as some of the most premium Cognacs and single malt whiskies, but commands a fraction of the price. In fact, you can pick up some incredible bargains, with even the smallest Armagnac houses bottling vintages sometimes dating back to the early 1900s. This won’t last long, however. More and more drinkers who are looking for alternative, highly flavoursome dark spirits are beginning to discover just how accessible Armagnac can be. Travel to the Gers in November and you’ll actually get to see the distillers in action: the true definition of craft, if ever there was one. Mezcal, the more rustic brother of Tequila, is another spirit on the rise and 2015 will be yet another bumper year for this delicately smoky agave-based Mexican tipple. Fortunately, some real gems from the Oaxaca region of the country are now being imported into the UK in very small batches and fans of smoky whisky in particular will be in for a real treat.
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Similarly if you fancy some serious cocktail experimentation, grab a Smoking Gun and try permeating your favourite drink with some additional wafts of weirdness. Lastly, most bartenders will tell you that the key to a great cocktail is not just in the quality of the ingredients or technique, but also the ice that you use. Bad ice can totally kill the enjoyment of a great drink, so why not try making your own Japanese style ice balls. Muji sell a simple silicone mold, but for those wanting a crystal clear sphere of perfect ice, the Wintersmith’s Ice Baller is a marvel of science.
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Interview
Interview with Alex Proud British entrepreneur, celebrity and founder of Proud talks to Venue Insight Magazine. Q. What is the story behind opening up Proud Camden? A. I was working as a dealer in Japanese art – but they were not interested in pictures on the walls. They wanted cars. They were proper gangsters. I read an article about how buying Mercedes was the thing to do in Russia if you had some money, that is was the ultimate status symbol. I mentioned to one of these Mafioso that Rolls Royce’s were much better, and much cheaper. They asked me if I knew where he could get them – and so he did research and ended up selling cars for £200,000 a go, taking a hefty cut. They’d come over with the money in a suitcase, and ask for a bullet-proof Roller. I did everything above aboard, but where the cash came from, I don’t know – and it gave me the funds to do what I really wanted to do, which was run an art gallery.
Q. As an NTIA member what are the association trying to achieve for the night time industry? A.
The night time industry across the UK is facing a number of different challenges, from our perspective it’s frustrating to see so many well known and loved venues being closed. You’ve only got to took at some of the statistics to see what’s been happening. Recently it was reported that 50% of live music venues and also half of nightclubs have closed across the UK in the last five to ten years. Our feeling was that not enough was being done to change the situation hence the role of the NTIA. We feel the NTIA has a twofold approach, firstly to to bring awareness to and challenge these closures which in some way have to stop. Secondly and more importantly the NTIA promotes the cultural, business and social benefits of the night time industry. They lobby on behalf of venues like ours to the Government, the home office, the mayor’s office. It’s a £66bn industry that contributes jobs, business, tourism and also provides the culture and experience that makes London one of the best, most fun cities in the world. It’s important our leaders understand its significance and help to create a thriving night time industry that we can all be proud of.
Q. What do you feel is one of the main reasons behind the current decline in UK clubs and bars? A.
There are a number of reasons all of which in some way contribute to a perfect storm of sorts for the industry. There is no doubt that the growth of residential and commercial space in cities across the UK has impacted clubs. With rising profit opportunities for such ventures it can prove more profitable, hence many well known clubs and live music venues being
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turned into flats. We’ve seen a consensus shift in licensing policy across the UK and, and in light of more oppressive policy many venues have not survived. The police have massively had their resources reduced through austerity which hasn’t helped, leading the Met Commander to recently quote that the country would be better off if we reduced the number of pubs and bars by 50%. Finally as increasing numbers of residents move into city’s, the law is still clearly on their side when it comes to noise complaints. Its not uncommon now for a new resident who moves into a busy city centre to complain about the noise and then for authorities to close down the venue, or put significant restrictions on it. All of these factors make are working against having a prosperous industry, and its a great shame to see it suffer because of this.
Q. In your opinion what do we need to do to bring it back to its former glory? A.
We need to treat venues as less of a place to see live music & go clubbing and think about using it more as a ‘space’. That’s why I’m so with our secret garden terrace bar (soon to become the polar bar), it’s a genuinely great area where people can relax and enjoy themselves in a different surrounding to what they’re used to. Nightclubs typically live and die by their ticket sales on the night so using the ‘space’ in the day time as well is essential to the venues survival. Diversifying the way you can use the venue from photography exhibitions, exclusive screenings, pop up shops and offering food are great ways of using an otherwise dormant space when most people are out and about, in the daytime. The only way we can survive as venues is if we offer more options for people to come and use the space, give them variety and experiences they’ll remember and the glory days will soon return.
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Interview
Q. What makes your venues different and what advice can you offer people just entering the night time industry? A.
We have great variety throughout the Proud Group. For example we have a rare and unseen Rolling Stones photography exhibition in City coming up, a Jimi Hendrix exclusive album screening and talk with legendary sound engineer Eddie Kramer in our Camden gallery, our beautiful cabaret girls at City, the comedy nights in cabaret and weddings in Brighton. I feel really blessed we’ve got these four fantastic venues. We’re really looking to expand and provide different experiences for people in the spaces we have. What advice would I give to people entering the nightclub industry? Don’t do it. The events industry right now is very crowded and it really is a cut throat business, the only way to succeed is to provide something different and make the most of the spaces you use.
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Left: Alex Proud, British entrepreneur & founder of Proud, Camden
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Sound & Light
Amon Tobin ISAM Amon Tobin ISAM is an immersive audio visual show that has made a huge imprint on the world of electronic music over the last two years. Its groundbreaking design and integration of interactive projection mapping pushed the boundaries the medium to new levels. Headed up by CEO and Director Vello Virkhaus and the team at V Squared Labs in collaboration with Amon Tobin, set designer Vitamotus, Technical Producer Alex Lazarus and Leviathan.
Mau5 cube This piece of kit is the huge cube that serves as a platform and DJ booth. The cube has 36 tiles, and amounts to over 2800 individual F11 LEDs in all. It has a 1600 x 1200 native resolution, and can display virtually any colour imaginable. Continuing with the techie theme, the opening motion- graphics sequence is an old-school simulation of Super Mario, albeit with a deadmau5 character trying to beat Mario to the castle. It’s entertaining, and mirrors Joel’s own affinity for gaming
Skrillex Mothership Skrillex’s Mothership tour brought a brand new meaning to production value last year. Debuting a huge prop designed to look like a space shuttle, Skrillex was suspended above the crowd powered by a hydraulic lift spewing fog, confetti and fire outwards towards the crowd while mixing an unforgettable set. If you were a patron at some point last year to see him live on the Mothership tour, consider that a memory to never be forgotten.
Daft Punk Pyramid Daft Punk performed in 2006 at the Coachella Music and Arts Festival. During the critically acclaimed live show, Daft Punk distorted synthesized elements via a 40-foot-tall, LED-surfaced pyramid. The pyramid was powered by software, such as Ableton Live, along with supercomputers, Behringer BCR2000 midi controllers, ethernet remote computer screens, Minimoog Voyagers, analog synthesizers, and Jazzmutant Lemur. The technology involved in the electronic performance made it one of their most memorable shows ever.
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Selected Installations:
Void Acoustics designs, manufactures and distributes advanced professional audio systems for the installed and live sound market sectors. The company oers an evolved series of audio solutions that encompass loudspeaker systems, power ampliiers, control electronics and accessories.
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Mixology
New Tobacco Flavour Drops Tobacco is the newest flavour to be added to Cream Supplies’ Flavour Drops range. This somewhat controversial flavour is likely to divide opinion but, although it is partially derived from tobacco plants, it contains no nicotine or tar and is completely harmless. The warm, earthy and smoky flavour notes of tobacco have been used by many notable chefs over the years. In fact, Ferran Adria frequently included it in El Bulli’s desserts while both Anthony Bourdain and Joan Roca have been known to use it. It works very well with strong flavours such as caramel, chocolate and coffee while, for drinks, it is probably most successfully paired with whiskey or Cognac. Tobacco Flavour Drops are an easy and convenient way of achieving flavour without
having to resort to extracting it from the leaves themselves and, because they are very highly concentrated, very little is required - just 1-2 mls (8-16 drops) is sufficient to flavour approximately 1 litre of base liquid. The drops are water-based so they disperse well in most foods and drinks and, because they don’t contain alcohol, they won’t evaporate or denature quickly when used with hot foods. Their shelf life is 18 months to 2 years when stored in dry, cool conditions and out of direct sunlight. Once opened quality is maintained for around 6 months as long as the bottle is re-sealed. Tobacco Flavour Drops are sold in a 30ml glass bottle with a pipette for easy use and are available for £5.95 from www.creamsupplies.co.uk. Many other flavours are available. Left: New Tobacco Flavour Drops from Cream Supplies.
Bonzer Barware launches new campaign with leading craft spirit brands The marketing initiative witnessed MDs from Half Hitch Gin, Vestal Vodka, East London Liquor Company and Kamm & Sons take part in a full day’s photo shoot, where the photographer, Sam Robinson, captured them using the new range of tools in their brand signature drinks. Bonzer Bareware has been considered the industry standard in cocktail equipment since the 1920’s. Synonymous with quality, style, reliability and versatility, the brand is designed in Britain at the company’s headquarters in Uckfield, Sussex and is inspired by years of bartending expertise. The latest campaign is designed to highlight the quality and position that the tools have in the market as well as being the starting point for further exciting projects which will unfold later in the year.
“We were very conscious that we wanted to work with some establised craft spirit producers who are respected within the industry and which have a taste for style and quality in the same way as Bonzer. The spirit brands we worked with were certainly on our wish list and we were delighted that all were able to align themselves with the Bonzer brand.” Kat Cooper, Project Director at Bonzer.
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Mixology
The amazing machines and gadgets behind your trendy cocktail From ultrasonic waves to ice ball machines, Britain’s mixologists are turning to laboratorystyle equipment to make amazing drinks. Once upon a time, the only equipment you needed to make a cocktail was a shaker and a strainer. How things have changed. Today, Britain’s top mixologists are infusing their own spirits, carving intricate ice cubes and serving drinks in clouds of smoke that make drinkers go oooh and aaah. Some bars now have as many gadgets as a crazy scientist’s lab – and in a lot of cases, the gadgets are the same. Cocktail king Tony Conigliaro, the man behind top London drinking destinations 69 Colebrook Row and Bar Termini, was one of the first mixologists to turn to scientific methods to create innovative drinks. At his laboratory in East London, he has a vast array of kit, from a bain marie to a centrifuge, which transforms cloudy drinks into beautiful clear liquids. But the star of the show is a machine called a rotary evaporator, which scientists use for separating potentially dangerous compounds from solutions. Conigliaro’s, by contrast, distills quirky infused spirits, from horseradish vodka to pine-infused gin. The low pressure, he says, allows delicate ingredients to be preserved much more successfully than with conventional distillation methods, so the flavour really sings. “We first came across this piece of equipment around 12 years ago and managed to purchase one a year later. This bit of kit has been used in laboratories for 50 or so years, but no–one had thought to use it to impart flavour into liquid,” he explains. “This is now essential in almost everything we do and we are now seeing bartenders using them around the globe.”
Great Gatsby cocktail recipes: Drink like it’s the 1920s Tristan Stephenson, the drinks expert behind London’s Worship Street Whistling Shop, is another fan of the ‘rotavap’. He reckons there are no more than 12 bars currently using the machine in the whole world, but his team find it so invaluable, they have three. “We use the rotavapor to infuse peanut butter and jam into bourbon and infuse cream into gin to make our signature Whistling Shop Cream,” he says. “We use it on a day-to-day basis.” At Artesian in The Langham Hotel, named the world’s best bar for the third year in a row in October, Alex Kratena and Simone Caporale use an alternative gadget called the Sonicprep. Priced at a staggering $4,999.95 (and only available on request), it releases rapid ultrasonic waves to extract and infuse ingredients. The advantage? “It works super fast,” the pair explain. “Some of the preparation we use it for takes as little as 45 seconds.”
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Liquid being infused in the Sonicprep For those mixologists who don’t have deep enough pockets for such high-tech machinery, there are plenty of other, cheaper gadgets which can instantly make a cocktail memorable. The £60 Smoking Gun – which shoots a flavoured smoke over food and drink in seconds – has become ubiquitous, with bars including Opium and The London Cocktail Club among the proud owners. By using different types of wood chips, bartenders can adjust the flavour of the smoke, while the billowing clouds create a little theatre for customers (who doesn’t want to order a drink that looks like it’s on fire?).
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Mixology
DIY cocktails: how to make your own drinks at home At the stylish bar of the Hotel Una in Brighton, bartender Ben Leggett loves impressing visitors with his ice ball machine, a sleek piece of equipment which sculpts a solid block of ice into a perfect sphere in just a few seconds.
called a CNC (computer numerical control) machine, which, a little like a 3D printer, allows intricate shapes to be created in minutes. An ice cube shaped like a miniature Buddhist temple, carved for the Suntory whisky brand using CNC.
“It’s cool to watch, and blows customers away when delivered in front of them, but it’s also practical – serving a drink over a large ice ball ensures the first and last sips are near exactly the same, as there’s a lot less dilution that when you use small cubed ice,” he explains.
As for garnishes, forget a humble strip of lemon peel or a brine-soaked olive. At East London Speakeasy Nightjar, owner Edmund Weill loves his dehydrator. “It allows us to store huge amounts of fruit, citrus and vegetables for garnishes that look beautiful and retain the aroma of the ingredient,” he explains. “It is also an excellent way of reducing wastage behind a bar as any items that are in danger of going off can be dehydrated overnight.”
Some bars take their ice even more seriously. If you’ve ever had a piece of ice in your drink that looks like a work of art, the mixologist may have had access to an industrial cutter
So next time you order a fancy cocktail at a bar, take a moment to appreciate the drink before you slurp it down. You never know how much work went into it!
An ice ball machine in action
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Interview
The Social Festival 2015
This year The Social Festival welcomed around ten thousand revellers from its local Maidstone and beyond with explosive sets from the likes of Richie Hawtin, Four Tet and even a very special exclusive back to back to back with Sasha, Joris Voorn and festival head, Nic Fanciulli. The 2015 edition was its third and took place in the scenic surroundings of Mote Park bringing together internationally renowned electronic music, bespoke culinary talent and innovative creative production including The Social veteran, Seth Troxler’s very own Bamboo Village.Â
On entering through the festival gates we were greeted by what can be described as a nice deep house background sound, plenty of laughing and the smell of a range of different global foods. It was like a big festival atmosphere in a small setting, boutique perhaps. Mapped out with different arenas it was genuinely hard work trying to decide which artists we wanted to see with a lot of deliberation sitting on hay bales with a glass of cider. None the less, the entertainment outside the arenas was fantastic with numerous vendors such as mobile cocktail vendors Beetle Juice who this year have been used at many internationally recognised festivals such as SW4 and Creamfields offering a 7 cocktail menu and showcasing the traditional bartender bottle spins and shaker showboating really adding to the occasion. There was even a truck with about 20 different slushy flavours hanging off the side and fair ground rides. The Social also host a winter festival in February which has recently been announced as moving location to the larger Detling Showground just up the road from Mote Park. So it would seem that The Social Festival is gaining serious momentum and being from Maidstone myself, really has stamped itself on the local calendar as a go to event in both summer and winter.
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Interview
“Thanks to everyone that came and made the third year of The Social Festival so fantastic, it was great to see crowds of over 10,000 people from the surrounding areas in Kent, abroad, and all different areas of the UK travelling to Maidstone for good, quality music. The support we’ve had over the past few years has been amazing, and we’re always striving to give back to the local community. We work very closely with Maidstone Borough Council to monitor sound, traffic and any other issues concerned with organising a large scale event, whilst maintaining the best experience for festival-goers. We can’t wait to share the exciting plans we have for 2016.” Nic Fanciulli, international star and Festival Head.
Photographs accredited to Daniel James Underhill
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Spirits
The BenRiach Distillery Company wins 10 medals at IWSC 2015 The BenRiach Distillery Company has won 10 medals, including two Gold and four Silver Outstanding, across its three brands at this year’s International Wine and Spirits Competition. And rounding off an excellent performance at the Awards, the Edinburgh-based company was again shortlisted for the 2015 UK Spirits Producer award. Founded in 1969, the International Wine and Spirit Competition is one of the most prestigious in the world. It currently receives entries from over 90 countries, giving it global reach. It was set up to seek out, reward and promote the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs. Now in its forty-sixth year, the IWSC’s pursuit of excellence underpins every aspect of the competition today. Judging for the competition is unique in that it has two stages; first, the products are tasted blind by expert panels, selected from over 300 fully experienced and qualified industry judges. Then, products which receive the top medals are subject to technical analysis before results are released; this crucial stage ensures winners receive complete validation.
2013 and has been critically acclaimed in all our markets. It bursts with flavour and is full of the distinctive Glenglassaugh coastal character.” He added: “Winning four outstanding silvers is also very pleasing, especially the two for our brand-new releases, the BenRiach 10YO and the GlenDronach 8YO. The BenRiach 10 Years Old is Classic Speyside in character and the cask formula focuses on ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks – exactly the types of wood we favour at BenRiach. And the GlenDronach 8 Years Old, known as The Hielan’, is a rich and immensely satisfying dram with a classic sherry signature. “It is a huge achievement for a small independent to make the UK spirits producer shortlist in the company of global companies and we are thrilled with these fantastic results.”
Sales Director Alistair Walker said: “An IWSC award is an internationallyrecognised badge of quality and we’re delighted to win ten this year, especially as they are spread across all three of our brands.
“To receive a Gold Medal for the GlenDronach 12 Years Old is particularly satisfying as it is both our flagship expression and our best-selling brand this year with fantastic worldwide sales and growth. It is also very gratifying to see the Glenglassaugh 30 Years Old taking gold too. It was the first release from the distillery after we took over in
The company’s full list of awards: Gold Medal GlenDronach 12YO Glenglassaugh 30YO Silver Outstanding Medal BenRiach 12YO Sherry Wood Matured BenRiach 10YO GlenDronach 8YO BenRiach 35YO Silver Medal GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 4 Glenglassaugh Revival Glenglassaugh Torfa Glenglassaugh Evolution
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Spirits
Love Drinks brings Mr Black cold press coffee liqueur to the UK Love Drinks, the sales and distribution agency for Goslings Bermuda Rum, Hayman’s Gin and El Dorado Rum has added the award-winning Mr Black, a cold press coffee liqueur, to its portfolio.
Mr Black is entirely cold-extracted with no addition of flavourings, caramels or vanillas. The cold extraction – 23 degrees in the case of Mr Black – results in a less acidic brew with a rounder mouthfeel and big coffee flavour – perfect for creating a liqueur that stands up to blending with spirits, which is exactly what Mr Black does.
Established in 2012 in Australia, which is often cited as having the most innovative coffee culture in the world, Mr Black was created by designer Tom Baker and Philip Moore, one of Australia’s highest awarded distillers. The two men were united by a love of bitter, black beverages and joined forces to make Mr Black – a dark and decadent spirit with an unadulterated coffee kick.
As you’d expect with a co-creator who is a designer, the bottle that houses Mr Black is also a work of art. On the back of the bottle is an illustration from Australian artist Dale Bigeni which details a striking owl design. The further you explore the depths of this dark delicious liquid, more of the bottle design is revealed.
As the saying goes, good things come to those who wait and with Mr Black that’s certainly the case. The process to make Mr Black is a slow one. • The Coffee – single origin Arabica coffee beans from Ethiopia, Brazil and Papua New Guinea are chosen for their distinctive flavours to create a house blend. • Low and slow – cold extraction produces a full-flavoured coffee without the acidity and eye-squinting bitterness of an espresso. • Cold press – a basket press is used to extract the rich liquid rom inside the coffee infusion. Time consuming yes, but worth every minute. • Coffee over spirit – the cold press coffee is then blended with pure Australian grain spirit, which allows the rich flavour of the coffee blend to shine through. Every process in the making of Mr Black is handled at the tiny distillery on the central coast of Australia; from the sourcing of the coffee beans to the grinding of the coffee and the bottling of Mr Black (300 bottles at a time). This process, laid down by Tom and Philip, ensures they are producing the best tasting Mr Black day in and day out.
“Mr Black is truly like no other coffee product in the drinks industry. We’re absolute purists when it comes to our product and spend more time thinking about coffee and spirits than anyone else out there. We love coffee - it pumps though our veins. Plenty of people make coffee liqueurs, but it’s just another flavour to them - an ingredient for cocktails. Mr Black is the star of the show - a heavy pour over a lump of ice and people pretty quickly get what we’re about.” Tom Baker, Co-creator of Mr Black.
“Introducing Mr Black to the UK is extremely exciting and something that we’ve considered and planned for a while. It certainly feels like the right time to introduce Mr Black to both the UK bar and coffee industries. There are definitely similarities between the two sectors, the pride in the drinks they serve and the quality of ingredients they use in their drinks are just two that spring to mind.” Kirsty Loveday, Managing Director and Founder of Love Drinks said: “Like Tom, we have been waiting to bring Mr Black to the UK for some time and are excited to see what the reaction will be. In the initial tastings we’ve held, feedback has been incredible and even our sales team have been pushing for an earlier launch as they can see the potential Mr Black has within the drinks industry and beyond.”
Mr Black Tasting Notes Colour: Black Aroma: Overwhelming fresh espresso Body: Bitter yet balanced. Chocolate and caramel. Fine citrus edge Finish: Toffee. Marmalade. Coffee ‘til the end
Mr Black Serving Suggestions Think of Mr Black as a cocktail-ketchup for dark spirits and stirred cocktails. It makes a number of classic cocktails better; think a Negroni made with Mr Black, a Black Old Fashioned or blend Mr Black 50:50 with whisky, mezcal, tequila or rum for a small demonstration of what coffee can bring to mixed drinks.Bl Mr Black is available in 700ml bottles and has a 25% ABV. www.venue-insight.com
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Spirits
Fire Starter
Molvino Fine Wines & Spirits Co. Ltd are proud to introduce new additions to their unique and premium portfolio.
Tower Bridge London Dry Gin follows the traditional, aged recipe of London Dry Gin and uses only natural botanicals (Juniper Berries, Star Anise, Sweet Woodruff and Root Bark). Tower Bridge gin has a bouquet that is composed and rich, with a predominant juniper hint. With a great bottle in black or white it is a truly iconic gin option. Another addition is the new Firestarter vodka glass crystal style bottles with their unique, high quality appearance these are creating a real buzz in the vodka category.
“We have been working hard to create new products with the company ethos in mind... distill a quality spirit in a unique package and be that different brand in the market” “Both our new products are about capturing attention. The vodka and gin categories are image conscious and with our recent 2015 IWSC awards for both spirit and packaging we deliver that very well.” Mark Ingram, Molvino Business Development Manager.
FSV was born from an 18th century Russian recipe and has been perfected in Moldova by its existing high-tech 5 and new 7 times platinum filtered process... a real smooth vodka !
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Spirits
Movino Prosecco & Pinot Brut Rose Spumante Molvino Prosecco DOCG is the offering that has recently won the IWSC Bronze medal and partnering that is a Pinot Brut Rose Spumante.
With the Prosecco and Spumante market growing and offering several options at various price and quality levels, Molvino Fine Wine & Spirits have introduced their offering with a higher standard vino as the bench mark.
Both look amazing in their sleek, quality dark bottles with simple yet premium labeling gives the feel and appearance of a decent sparkling option. Molvino chose to introduce the DOCG option as the market had many DOC offerings they felt and the category needed a new higher finished Prosecco to complete in the Retail and Ontrade sector. Both offer a fresh, crisp and fruity taste that will appeal to bubbles consumer,plus with purchase bundles that offer merchandise and pricing Molvino are confident the market will appreciate their latest creation.
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Spirits
Buffalo Trace launches on-trade support campaign As UK Bourbon sales boom, Hi-Spirits is launching a major on-trade support campaign designed to build awareness and appreciation of the range of award winning bourbons and American whiskeys from the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky. Along with the return of the popular Buffalo Bourbon Empire pop-up bar during London Cocktail Week, Hi-Spirits is hitting the road with a series of Buffalo Trail events in ten locations around the UK, until December. Held in high-profile on-trade venues, the events will include consumer masterclasses and food matchings, as well as exclusive trade-only sessions. These will see Bourbon experts from Buffalo Trace guide participants through a bourbon-tasting journey, looking at the craft and care that goes into distillation, as well as the history and heritage of bourbon and the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Both the Buffalo Bourbon Empire, opening this year in Shoreditch, and the regional Buffalo Trail events, will be the first opportunity to sample the five limited edition whiskeys in the 2015 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. At selected events, tastings will be led by Drew Mayville, Master Blender for Buffalo Trace owner Sazerac. Tim Giles, UK Brand Manager for Buffalo Trace, said: “Bourbon sales are growing strongly in the on-trade, and amongst younger and more affluent consumers in particular. We’re taking the opportunity to build awareness of the flagship Buffalo Trace brand, as well as the full range including Eagle Rare and the Antique Collection. “Buffalo Trace will have a high profile at the Whisky Show on October 3 and 4, and then throughout London Cocktail Week at the Buffalo Bourbon Empire in Shoreditch. We’re also holding the Buffalo Trail events to support the on-trade across the UK and help bars capitalise on the profit potential. “The annual UK allocation of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection always sells quickly, so the opportunity to sample the five whiskeys is an added incentive.”
Buffalo Trail events are free for on-trade participants who sign up in advance, and are being held in: • • • • • • • • • • •
Buffalo Bourbon Empire, London: Oct 6 Buffalo Bourbon Empire, London: Oct 8 Bristol: Oct 14 Cardiff: Oct 21 Nottingham: Oct 26 Liverpool: Nov 3 Manchester: Nov 10 Sheffield: Nov 18 Newcastle: Nov 26 Glasgow: Dec 1 Edinburgh: Dec 2
Antique Collection Masterclasses with Drew Mayville: • • • •
Boilermaker, Nottingham: October 7 Jake’s Bar, Leeds: October 8 Cain and Grain, Manchester: October 9 Copper Blossom, Edinburgh: October 10
Details are at www.buffalotrace.co.uk, where bartenders can sign up for a free place at the Buffalo Trail events and book sessions at the Buffalo Bourbon Empire. The range from Buffalo Trace distributed in the UK by Hi-Spirits includes: • Buffalo Trace - a bourbon aged for 8-12 years, a multiple award winning spirit at an unbeatable price point. • Buffalo Trace White Dog – the unaged, clear spirit bottled before barrelling. • Benchmark - an aged bourbon at an entry level price. • Sazerac Straight Rye – the classic rye whiskey. • Eagle Rare Single Barrel – a premium 10 year old bourbon. • The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection – five limited edition. whiskeys, released annually, the range was recently inducted into the Spirit Journal Hall of Fame.
The Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Kentucky is the world’s most awarded distillery and was named Innovator of the Year at the 2015 Whiskies & Spirits Conference in London for maintaining a continuous commitment to experimentation and research in the production of premium American whiskeys. To stock Buffalo Trace, please contact Hi-Spirits on: 01932 252 100 Email:
info@hi-spirits.com or see:
www.hi-spirits.com
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THE NEW SHOT ON THE BLOCK Discover the kid in yourself...
- The Aftershot Experience
Soft Drinks
Mesmerizing J₂O launch set to captivate consumers J₂O launches new Midnight Amber limited edition exclusively for the on trade channel. Leading soft drinks manufacturer, Britvic Soft Drinks, is introducing a new limited edition variant from J₂O this September, exclusively for the on trade channel. J₂O Midnight Amber blends fantasy with reality and will bewitch the senses, charm the taste buds and sprinkle some magic into adult soft drinks sales for winter. The tantalising limited edition captures the spirit of the winter season with a magical burst of orange, lemon and mandarin fruit juices, blended with a winter spice flavour. J₂O Midnight Amber can be enjoyed either on its own as a sophisticated adult soft drink or as part of a range of delicious mocktails and cocktails. With the strongest ever marketing activation for a J₂O limited edition range, J₂O Midnight Amber will benefit from a £2million investment in a through-the-line campaign, running from October to December, including in store activity, digital, social media and PR. J₂O will also be back on TV from November, raising brand awareness and helping the on trade to capitalize on the lucrative opportunity that adult soft drinks present during the winter months. In addition, Britvic will be enchanting consumers further still with the launch of a J₂O Midnight experience through mobile phone app, Blippar. Using this innovative mobile phone technology, consumers will be able to ‘blip’ the limited edition J₂O bottles to reveal a bewitched clock. By simply tapping the clock, consumers can instantly win Amazon vouchers worth up to £500, access exclusive drinks recipes or take an enchanted selfie. Launching on 31st August and running until 20th December, this enchanted J₂O Midnight experience will be sure to captivate the attention of consumers and drive interest in the new limited edition variant.
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Magical New Look The new limited edition will benefit from a premium, sophisticated pack design, reflecting the flavours in the blend and story. Colourings for J₂O Midnight Amber echo the delicious orange, lemon, mandarin and winter aromas contained within, symbolizing the fruit as it tumbles down the steps of the clock tower in the brand story. The gold bordering on the bottle represents the shimmering moonlight and, along with the magical font and logo, enhances the premium nature of the product to encourage standout on shelf.
Serving Suggestion: J₂O Midnight Mocktail Recipes Red Burst: • J₂O Midnight Amber • Blood Orange Tango J₂O Midnight Cocktail Recipes Midnight Spritz: • 50ml Aperol or Campari • Half Bottle of J₂O Midnight Amber • 50ml Britvic soda • Garnish with flambé orange peel
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Soft Drinks
“As the UK’s largest juice drink brand, holding a 61% value market share of the on-trade soft drinks category, we’re confident that J₂O’s fantasyworld-inspired Midnight Amber blend will capture the spirit of the season and help drive adult soft drinks sales. J₂O has a strong track record in delivering incremental sales through limited edition variants in winter and we expect Midnight Amber to continue this legacy. Benefitting from a perfectly balanced combination of flavours, it can be consumed on its own, combined within other juices as a mocktail or with alcohol to create some wondrous winter cocktails. Thanks to its exceptional versatility and supporting activity, we’re positive that the new J₂O Midnight Amber will continue to deliver for publicans in 2015 by enticing new consumers to try this year’s fantasy-themed juice drink.” Kevin McNair, GB Marketing Director of Britvic Soft Drinks.
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Reviews
La Fee Absinthe The La Fee Absinthe Parisienne is the brand original and is based on the classic 19th centuary recipe, distilled in conjunction with the Frence Absinthe Museum with Grand Wormwood and the other traditional herbs and spices. Absinthe is a hugely misunderstood spirit with complex flavour profiles and many different uses. Once the water has been added and the infamous green cloudiness forms there are strong aromas of anise with more subtle smells of coriander or fennel. On the taste I got quite a strong liquorice with slight mint and found it really refreshing and the preparation was made easier with the free Absinth spoon attached to the bottle. I really enjoyed this and I can’t help but feel it can be used more in mixology.
Franklin & Sons I tasted the entire range of the Franklin and sons and the best way to describe these would be an adult soft drink. With a few different flavours including Strawberry and Raspberry with cracked Black Pepper or Apple and Rhubarb with Cinnamon they really do offer the “ooo I would like to try that’’ factor. I think the main factor with these are that they are not overly sweet like many similar drinks so I would recommend drinking on their own or with spirits like gin or vodka. I tried the Lemon and Elderflower with gin and it truly was fantastic. For my taste the Dandelion and Burdock with Star Anise was a little too sweet to be traditional and had a strange aroma but still very drinkable.
Hoopers Plum & Sloe The first thing I noticed with this was the colour deep red it looked like it was going to taste nice just by the first pour crashing over the ice, flavour wise very strong plum and the flavour profile was much more sophisticated with a medium taste which is probably the result of the Sloe. This is the kind of drink that can be enjoyed all night with flavours feeling more organic and British than some of the European equivalents. If you like fruit ciders then this is up there with the best with many turning into large alcopops this still feels like cider to me.
Blue Beard Best known for its barbershop-quality range of shaving and grooming products, the brand has well and truly thrown caution to the wind with a brand new tipple dubbed ‘The Ultimate Pale Ale for Real Men’. The new brew is the product of a unique collaboration between the Devon-based brand and local Hunter’s Brewery, and has already set tongues wagging ahead of its arrival in local pubs and bars later this month. Made with Citra and East Kent Golding’s hops combined with the finest of British ingredients, the Ultimate Pale Ale is bottle conditioned, unpasteurised and unfiltered, with a strong, uncompromising and proud flavour. It really is a great pale ale…
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Installations
Canteen and Cocktails: Barry Faulkner set to open Newcastle version of Norton bar Businessman says there could be potential to roll the name out across the north and is now looking to Leeds and Harrogate Canteen and Cocktails is set to open a second branch in Newcastle after it proved to be a hit in Norton. Barry Faulkner is investing around £500,000 in his second bar and restaurant under the brand. It comes 10 months after the Norton branch opened its doors. Mr Faulkner, who also co-owns La Pharmacie, Medicine Bar and the Empire nightclub, said: “It’s going to be based on the Norton model but we’re going to tweak it for the Newcastle audience – it’s basically going to have a little bit of everything. We’ll be serving great food and fantastic cocktails, and we have a 2.30am licence on Saturdays so we’ll have DJs, play all the sport on TVs and have live music. It’s something a little bit different for Newcastle. We are really changing the inside of the place, and can only cross our fingers it goes down well. I do all the design myself – I started out when I was 15 and I own a few places in Middlesbrough including La Pharmacie and the Empire. John Adamson (Director of the Ramside Estates Group) and I are working on this bar together and we’re investing around £500,000 – we’re spending what we need to get it right. There’s potential to roll the name out across the North too, so we’re looking to Harrogate and Leeds and will open up one at a time. Once complete, Canteen and Cocktails will be serving authentic American pit barbecue food – such as “Crock ‘O’ Bones” and “Kentucky Piggy Treat” – cocktails and showing all major sporting events. Live music and DJs playing at weekends are also planned.” Newcastle’s Canteen and Cocktails, which is set to create 40 jobs, will open either at the end of October or beginning of November.
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Venue Insight
A night in
Paris
Le Peep Boutique is a new London venue with a richly evocative interior, creating an inner world of intrigue and fantasy, inspired by the high style of 1920s Paris and the secret inner world of the peepshow.
The new club is located on Park Lane and occupies the ground and basement floor of the Marriott Hotel, an imposing Beaux-Arts building of the 1920s. Nick Leith-Smith Architects were involved in creating the identity and overall concept behind the brand as well as responsible for the interior design of the new space. In addition to being a bar, restaurant and nightclub, Le Peep Boutique will also play host to music events and other live performances.
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Venue Insight
Nick Leith-Smith’s design is intended to take the guest on a journey through a series of spaces, each with its own unique identity. Le Peep Boutique is set up as a series of individual areas, which cumulatively build to create a masque-like atmosphere, revealing inner circles, theatrical flourishes and hidden zones.
The principle staircase down to the basement rooms has been styled in the form of a mirrored birdcage, with elaborate ironwork rising up around the steps and framing the transition between floors. A trapeze bar hangs down in the double-height space, a place for impromptu performance and display. The main space functions as a ‘street’, off which are arranged a series of intriguing and varied interiors, accentuating the sense of a visitor attending a series of Parisian boutiques.
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Venue Insight
Each of the individual ‘shops’ has been given a defining character, from the panelled discretion of the Salon Rouge, the rich decoration of the Secret Garden, the mysterious Paper Theatre and the seductive Boudoir space. Bold lighting, elaborate forms and high quality materials are used extensively, from the custom-built leather banquettes and seating booths through to the sparkling glass chandeliers in the bathrooms. Bespoke illustrated wallpapers, Baroque mouldings and patterns add layers of detail and depth. The theatrical theme runs throughout Le Peep Boutique to create an exotic and intriguing inner world.
Nick Leith-Smith Architecture, formerly Data Nature Associates, was founded in 2000. The practice specialises in high quality, bespoke contemporary design. The studio has extensive experience of working in luxury retail design as well as high-end residential work, delivering detailed, highly crafted projects with strong elements of personalisation and individual taste. Nick also has strong connections to the fashion world, together with a thorough understanding of bespoke design, resulting in a playful yet distinguished approach that marries a sound understanding of historic and contemporary design with contemporary craft, materials and form.
Photographs accredited to Quintin Lake & Anthony Spennato.
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Venue Insight
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Venue Insight
Nightclub marks a decade of dancing and star appearances Mayhem nightclub sees its ten-year anniversary since it very first opened its doors.
”We are proud to have bought some of the biggest stars to the club, from television shows such as the Inbetweeners, Towie, Made in Chelsea and Geordie Shaws, to the biggest music stars of their time such as Neyo, Will.I.Am, Tinie Tempah, Clean Bandit.
It did so on Friday, September 30, 2005, with Lee Ryan from the boy band ‘Blue’ making a star appearance to mark the occasion. Since that time the club based in Warrior Square, Southend, has seen nearly two million customers go through its doors and welcomed a host of other glittering stars from Will.I.Am to the Prodigy, from Coolio to Busta Rhymes.
We’ve also seen the biggest shake up of England’s licensing laws, seen the introduction of the smoke ban and have seen many fads in music come and go. The club scene has been in decline over the years, with 50 per cent being reported to close down which have opened in the last two years. We have continued to move forward and despite costs increasing, have managed to keep our prices not too different from when we first opened.” Gary Stokes, General Manager.
The club took over an empty basement, which had once been part of Keddies toy department. It’s since grown into one of Southend’s most popular nightspots, and with General manager Gary Stokes on the committee of the Purple Flag award which works to create a better, safer nightlife in the town, has pioneered now commonplace moves such as using polycarbonate glasses and having taxi marshalls to make sure people get home safely.
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Installations
We can offer a full range of embroidered or printed clothing to suit any style and budget
Tel: 01622 751449 E-mail: info@4u2promote.co.uk
www.4u2promote.co.uk
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RTD’s
WKD concocts bewitching brews for cocktail cauldrons WKD’s popular Halloween Cocktail Cauldrons are making a welcome return to pubs and bars, along with mixing guides and posters featuring four ghoulish Halloween-themed cocktail recipes allowing consumers to share a cocktail with mates. Ringing the changes, WKD brand owner SHS Drinks has concocted three bewitching new recipe suggestions which will be featured on posters alongside the established best-seller ‘WKD Bolt from the Blue’ (WKD Blue, port & lemonade). The accompanying trio in this year’s spooky WKD Halloween cocktail line-up also includes ‘Boo Suede Juice’ showcasing the WKD Vegas Limited Edition mixed with Amaretto, spiced rum & lemonade; while ‘WKD Zombie Zinger’ (WKD Red, coconut rum, raspberry liqueur & lemonade) and ‘WKD Pumpkin Grin’ (Iron Brew, spiced rum & fiery ginger beer) have both been given an ingredients makeover for 2015. As well as the cocktail-related activity, WKD will also be providing outlets with a range of fun POS items created in a suitably WKDstyle. Banners, posters, mobiles and table-talkers will all help Halloween celebrations go well. Since the end of September, sales teams have been distributing the WKD Halloween Cauldron kits to WKD stockists.
“Halloween is now the third most celebrated occasion in the UK after Christmas and Easter, and this year Halloween falls on a Saturday so celebrations and sales in pubs are likely to be even greater in 2015. Young adults thrive on social occasions and shared experiences and Halloween is a key calendar event which provides them with a great opportunity to celebrate with friends. WKD’s Halloween Cocktail Cauldrons and recipes provide the theatre and excitement which will help licensees to create a fun and vibrant atmosphere and maximise the Halloween sales opportunity.” Debs Carter, Marketing Director.
RTD’s
RTD’s
Hooch offers daredevils full on prizes with new campaign Hooch gives its core millennial target consumer the chance to win experiences fit for any daredevil’s bucket list with cutting edge new campaign. Hooch is the fastest growing RTD*, fronted by ITV comedian Keith Lemon and won the Best TV & Cinema Campaign at The Grocer’s Marketing Advertising and PR Awards in 2014. Leading drinks business, Global Brands have continued to invest heavily in Hooch this year with the launch of a new Apple flavour released with a series of hilarious online cocktail videos, featuring Keith Lemon and delivering National radio coverage in May. This latest offering will continue to build on that success with an engaging on pack promotion to find an ‘H’ hidden underneath selected bottle caps. The winning caps reveal a unique code, which direct consumers to an online microsite for an instant prize win. The prizes continue Hooch’s pledge to push the boundaries and delight drinkers with the brand’s ethos of ‘full on refreshment’. The main prize is a choice of three holidays; To cage dive with Great White sharks in South Africa, white water raft in Denver or hang glide over Christ the Redeemer in Rio and is combined with over 1000 other prizes, such as red letter experience day vouchers, valued at £100 and discounted Hooch.
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Social and digital media activation including entertaining videos featuring Keith Lemon has been planned to support the campaign and drive engagement. Simon Green, Marketing Director at Global Brands said: “Hooch is showing a +42%* volume growth due to a demand for more ‘grown up’ choices and an increase of spend on occasions.
“This is just part of the investment into product development and innovative multimedia campaigns to support Hooch, which has helped to contribute to the phenomenal sales growth this year and the successful launch of the new Apple SKU.”
H
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RTD’s
RTD’s
Hoopers take it nice and Sloe Global Brands has launched another quintessentially British flavour, Plum & Sloe, which will add to the classic collection of Hooper’s authentic fruit brews.
The 4% ABV drink will portray the same quirky and traditional characteristics in the iconic 500ml bespoke bottle design, to be served over ice for a relaxed, refreshing drinking experience.
Launching this month, ideally timed just before the first autumn leaves start to fall, Plum & Sloe is made using only natural ingredients. The rich autumnal tones of plum are perfectly balanced by the dry, fragrant infusion of the sloes, to deliver true British refreshment.
Hooper’s was first launched by explorer and drinks entrepreneur William Hooper in 1817 who travelled the globe in search of inspiring new ideas he could bring back to British drinkers, the brand was re-launched in 2012.
The latest SKU will sit alongside the existing collection of alcoholic fruit brews including Dandelion & Burdock , Cloudy Lemonade, Strawberry & Elderflower, Raspberry & Nettle and Ginger Beer, which complement the flavours of traditional British dishes.
The launch is supported by Global Brands with promotional sampling, bespoke POS alongside planned digital and social media campaigns to drive awareness and engagement.
Plum & Sloe will add an element of seasonality to the line-up, which is all backed with investment in a calendar of British events throughout the year, including the World Conker Championships in October and pop up secret garden parties, which will feature across the UK. Simon Green, Marketing Director at Global Brands said: “Plum & Sloe is another example of the investment and innovation that we are making in Hooper’s this year, delivering for consumers who now expect more from their drinks experience. “Innovation across the premium RTD category is centred on a shift in demand towards products that have premium credentials, real provenance and heritage with more interesting and natural flavour options.”
Introducing
Franklin & Sons products were first introduced in 1886 when the three Franklin brothers began selling their handcrafted range of soft drinks from 171 High Street, Rickmansworth, London. Over 100 years later, this range of crafted British soft drinks combines heritage and specially sourced ingredients to reintroduce the naturally refreshing taste of Franklin’s. For more information or to order please call 01246 216 000
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www.franklinandsonsltd.com Franklin & Sons
@Franklinandsons
@Franklinandsons
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Recipes
Apricot Julep Ingredients
How to make
• 1 tin apricots – you’ll need 25ml tinned juice for each serving
1. Drain the apricots (reserving the juice).
• 8 mint leaves, plus 1 extra to serve
3. Squish into the sides of the glass.
• 50ml bourbon
2. Add mint leaves to a glass.
4. Pour in the bourbon. 5. Add crushed ice. 6. Pour in the apricot juice. 7. Garnish with mint.
Strawberry, Lemonade and Mint Ingredients • 3 strawberries • 125ml cloudy lemonade • 1 small handful fresh mint • 1 sprig fresh mint and 1 strawberry, to garnish
How to make 1. Put 3 strawberries into a highball glass. 2. Add a handful of mint. 3. Muddle (bash) together until smooth. 4. Top with lemonade and stir to mix. 5. Top with ice. 6. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a whole strawberry.
Marmalade Punch Ingredients
How to make
• 500ml cloudy apple juice
1. Add everything bar 4 slices of orange to a jug.
• 250ml ginger beer • 100ml whisky • 2 dashes Angostura orange bitters
2. Add lots of ice. 3. Stir and pour into tankards. 4. Peg a slice of orange to each side.
• Juice of of ½ lemon • 8 slices orange
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Recipes
Rum and Raisin Old-Fashioned Ingredients
How to make
• 50ml Appleton VX rum
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
• 25ml Harvey’s Bristol Cream
2. Add rum, sherry and bitters.
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
3. Stir.
• 1 dash Angostura orange bitters • 1 orange twist, to garnish
4. Gently squeeze the oils from the orange peel on the surface of the drink. 5. Drop into the glass and serve.
Somerset Appletini Ingredients • 35ml Somerset apple eau du vie • 15ml Noilly Pratt • 1 lemon twist
How to make 1. Chill a coupe glass. 2. Combine eau du vie and vermouth into a shaker. 3. Stir until chilled. 4. Double strain the glass. 5. Squeeze the lemon twist over the drink. 6. Drop into the glass.
White Sangria Ingredients
How to make
• 6 strawberries
1. An hour ahead, cut the strawberries in half and sprinkle with sugar.
• 30g sugar • 1 750ml bottle sauvignon blanc • Juice from 1 lemon
2. Combine everything in a large jug. 3. Stir. 4. Top with ice and serve.
• 1 small apple, sliced • 1 small handful fresh basil leaves
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