As that famous Scottish pop combo Wet, Wet, Wet once sang, Love Is All Around. Or at least it will be on Sunday. Whether you have a significant other, are spending February 14th in a bubble, or on your own, this weekend is all about sharing the love. And something fabulous to drink, of course.
The ultimate way to start your day would be with the absolutely gorgeous Breakfast in Bed package from The Berkeley*. What’s not to love about fresh-from-the-oven raspberry croissants, freshly squeezed orange juice, granola and yoghurt, and here’s the best bit, heart-shaped brioche French toast, dipped in Madagascan vanilla butter served with fruit, berry coulis, maple syrup and clotted cream? Nothing, that’s what! Add a bottle of Laurent Perrier Champagne to your order and you’ll score top marks in the love stakes. Whether you’re sharing breakfast or enjoying it by yourself.
*Valentine breakfasts have now sold out (boo!) but love isn’t just for one day, right? Order yours (minus the hearts) when you fancy an extra-special breakfast in bed. Prices from £28.
theberkeley.slerp.com
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not mandatory for Valentine’s Day cocktails to be pink. Or red for that matter. Whisky and chocolate are ideal partners and make for a welcome alternative to the traditional hearts and flowers. Try Compass Box Hedonism whisky paired with a high quality (what else?) chocolate laced with almonds or hazelnuts? Alternatively, match Compass Box Flaming Heart with sea salt, caramel or butterscotch flavoured chocolates?
Order from compassboxwhisky.com
Not to say that red cocktails are off the agenda… If you want something just the right shade of crimson, may we suggest the Valentines Cherry Cosmo from Loves at Ladies & Gents Cocktail Bar? Not only are the handy pouches mixed to perfection by the experts but all you have to do is open and pour over ice. Job done!
Check the website lovesat.co.uk – but be quick!
For something altogether cheekier, there’s the Vestal Valentines Bundle, containing your pick of Vestal Vodka, tonic and Vestal Vodka Karma Sutra Gummies – yours for £22.
Available from thedropstore.com
And lastly, if you do want to mix things up at home, try this:
Sweet Manhattan
50ml J&B Rare
25ml Vermouth Rosso
5ml Maraschino Liqueur
Garnish with a Maraschino cherry.
Method:
Chill your coupe or Rocks glass. Stir ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker – the slower the better. Try the drink with a straw or spoon to check that the drink has mixed and diluted slightly. If it is too strong stir another ten times. Strain into the chilled glass and garnish with a Maraschino cherry or with a piece of chocolate on the side.
