What and how will we be drinking next year? We won't pretend that we have a definitive answer to that but we do have an idea, and it revolves around one word: better. As in a better appreciation of our bars and bartenders, a better understanding of the history behind our drinks and of course, better quality spirits and ingredients.

With this in mind we're focusing on a few things that we will be making a big impression with us in the coming year. All with the 'better' philosophy in mind, of course. Which is why we've zoned in on X Muse, a decidedly stylish premium vodka bursting with complexity and attitude. It's destined to put this much maligned spirit back in the top spot. Our other pick is O/Purist, a new iteration of an ancient grape marc distillate, created by 10 forward-thinking Greek bartenders.

As for our reading matter, we're delving into 'The Big Book of Amaro' meticulously compiled by Matteo Zed. Why? Because like we said, we're resolving to get a better understanding of the history behind our drinks and this little beauty is packed with everything you need to know about the category.

Our bar review is the newly opened, simply stunning The Maine Mayfair which you should definitely have on your radar. Then we hand over to Lauren Mote, one of the most respected women in the drinks biz, for her tips for the year ahead.

What we're mixing:

Bamboo

40ml Fino Sherry

40ml Dry Vermouth

1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters

1 dash Orange Bitters

Lemon zest to garnish

Method:

Stir all ingredients over ice. Pour into a chilled Cocktail glass. Garnish with lemon zest.

For more from The Cocktail Lovers, including signing up for our digital and print magazine, visit our website, thecocktaillovers.com

To see the products featured in this episode, check out our Instagram page @thecocktaillovers and see their websites below:

O/Purist Tsipouro

The Big Book of Amaro is published by The Countryman Press, available from amazon.co.uk

The Maine Mayfair, 6 Medici Court, 20 Hanover Square, London W1S 1JY

X Muse Vodka

Contact/follow Lauren Mote via Instagram:

@laurenmote

@bittered_sling

@womencelebrate

@chardlaverbv

@nightcapmedia

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