In the run-up to the festive period, Nottinghamshire’s award-winning rum distillery DropWorks supported the bar team at one of the city’s most anticipated new venues, offering a deep dive into British-made rum and how to maximise its flavour in delicious festive cocktails.
DropWorks, which operates the largest rum distillery of its kind in Europe, nestled in the heart of Sherwood Forest, believes in rum’s great potential and holds a desire to build an exciting new narrative for the spirit.
During The Ivy Nottingham Brasserie’s opening period, the DropWorks team delivered a session centred on how the distillery crafts its signature Barrel Drop, Spice Drop and Clear Drop rums, their tasting notes and how they are best served, especially during the festive season.
The collaboration, led by DropWorks Sales Director and cocktail connoisseur, Chris Bryant-Mansell, included a preview taster of the Cave Smoker, a cocktail which blends Barrel Drop’s warm winter spice notes with tawny port, mezcal verde, maraschino cherry brine and angostura bitters, served in theatrical style with a cloche that reveals a fragrant cloud of vanilla smoke.
Chris said: “When a bartender truly understands what makes a spirit tick - how it’s made, how it tastes, and the best way to present it – the drinks really come alive. The Ivy team really know their art inside out and it was fantastic to share our Drops, which exist to inspire creativity behind the bar, with them first hand. Christmas is the perfect time to explore new flavours and put a twist on a traditional drink, and we know The Ivy team have some delicious festive options on their menu!”
Lewis Hayes, Founder and Master Distiller at DropWorks said: “In a category dominated by mass- produced and artificially flavoured products, we want to prove that great rums can be naturally full of flavour. The Ivy team picked up on the nuances of our Drops straight away and created some brilliant festive serves that showcase them at their best.
“We’re proud to see our locally produced rum on the menu in the Ivy this Christmas, New Years and beyond!”
The Ivy Nottingham Brasserie, the first East Midlands venue for The Ivy Collection, who has 45 restaurants across the UK, opened to much fanfare, adding to Nottingham’s thriving food and drinks scene. Open seven days a week from morning until late evening, the venue offers The Ivy’s signature blend of seasonal inspired dishes, expertly crafted cocktails, curated wine list and beautifully designed, vibrant atmosphere.
DropWorks continues to expand its listings rapidly across the UK, now being stocked in over a third of the UK’s top 50 cocktail bars as well as Nottingham locals Alchemilla and Mollis, and a wide range of high-end restaurants – now including The Ivy Nottingham Brasserie alongside The Clove Club and Moor Hall.
The distillery has also built long term relationships with the likes of Pig Hotels, Mildreds and Adam Handling, all of whom are aligned to the importance of quality British produce.
This latest chapter in redefining rum follows the distillery’s recent successful crowdfunding campaign, which raised almost half a million pounds from 295 supporters. Those who missed the opportunity to invest but would like to learn more about the Drops and gain early access to future releases can sign up for the DropWorks newsletter.
DropWorks represents a significant step forward for British rum. Based in the heart of Sherwood Forest, on the beautiful Welbeck Estate, the brand is on a mission to put the whole spirit category well and truly on the map. With a focus on quality ingredients and a fresh perspective, every Drop is designed to unlock creativity behind the bar and bring joy in the glass.