No Ordinary Gin is built around a juniper forward core lifted by citrus and botanicals, designed to taste like a proper gin even when sipped neat. The gin has been aged for 23 months in a whisky barrel. The July box includes a larger size because choosing between neat and G&T felt impossible, and the idea is for you to explore both. Think of it as the bright, refreshing anchor of the “summer vibes” theme.

Tasting notes
Nose: Clear juniper, zesty lemon and lime, a touch of sweet orange, fresh herbs, and subtle spice.
Palate: Clean and lively, with focused juniper, citrus oils, light floral notes, and a gentle, warming spice underneath.
Finish: Dry, refreshing and crisp, with lingering citrus peel and botanicals.

How to taste it
Neat (without water): Chill the glass lightly or use room temperature to compare; neat, the goal is to experience the full botanical structure. Take small sips and notice how the juniper and citrus lead, with the herbs and spice emerging more slowly. This is best for when the rain is heavy and a sharp, focused drink feels more soothing than a long pour.

In G&T: Use a generous measure of gin with plenty of ice, top with a clean tonic, and garnish with a citrus wedge (lemon, lime, or grapefruit) or a strip of peel. Aim for a balance where the tonic supports rather than overwhelms; the gin’s character should still be clearly in front. This is your sunshine glass – perfect for humid evenings when the rain finally eases.

This 26 year old Irish single malt from Blackadder offers the kind of gentle, mature charm that fits late night conversations while the rain taps against the window. Long ageing brings depth and softness, with layers of fruit, honey, and oak that unfold slowly. It is the contemplative centrepiece of the box: summer warmth in a quieter, more reflective form.

Tasting notes
Nose: Ripe orchard fruit, honey, vanilla, soft floral notes, and polished oak.
Palate: Silky texture with sweet malt, apples and pears, light tropical hints, gentle spice, and a touch of toasted oak.
Finish: Long and mellow, with lingering fruit sweetness, honey and a graceful oak fade.

Palate: There’s an instant spicy hit of ground ginger and turmeric, quickly mellowing into almond croissants, cream soda and cinder toffee. With water, some white-chocolate-covered Belgian waffles.

Finish: Cereals: warm porridge and toast with marmalade. Turning slightly earthy towards the end, but still with a spring in its step.

How to taste it
Neat (without water): Enjoy after dinner or during a slower moment; neat, the age and elegance show best. Let it sit a few minutes in the glass, then nose carefully to pick out fruit versus oak. Sip slowly and pay attention to the texture – the length of time in cask should be felt as smoothness and depth rather than weight.

With water: Add just a few drops; older whiskies can be sensitive, and the aim is to open rather than dilute. Water may bring more fruit and honey to the front and soften any sharper oak tones. Try one sip neat and one with water side by side to find your preferred balance.

Port Askaig 19 Years is an Islay malt that combines coastal brightness with rounded smoke, making it ideal both for sunny afternoons and low cloud, rain soaked days. The July lineup was adjusted specifically to include something that feels bright enough for summer but still comforting when the weather turns gloomy. Expect maritime character, layered peat, and a lift of citrus.

Tasting notes
Nose: Coastal air, gentle peat smoke, lemon peel, sweet malt, and light medicinal notes.
Palate: Medium bodied and energetic, with bonfire smoke, sea salt, citrus, hints of olive brine, and a touch of vanilla.
Finish: Long, salty and smoky, with fading citrus and a clean, mineral edge.

How to taste it
Neat (without water): Pour when the rain is loud and a more assertive, atmospheric dram feels right. Neat, focus on the interplay between smoke and brightness: citrus and salt balancing peat and embers. Take small sips and let the finish run – this is where the coastal character really appears.

With water: A few drops of water can bring out more lemon, maritime notes and sweetness, while slightly softening the smoke. If the whisky feels too intense at first, add water gradually and notice how the peat becomes gentler and more aromatic. This is a great one to revisit on different days – clear, humid, or rainy – to see how your mood changes the experience.

Alongside the liquids in the box, July includes a one day entry ticket to the upcoming Whiskies & More bar takeover in September 2026. This is your invitation to step out of the apartment and into a bar filled with new drams, conversations, and discoveries once summer gives way to early autumn. Think of it as an extra chapter to the month’s story, already locked into your calendar.