And just like that, we're over half way through season nine and rather coincidentally, that brings us half way through (or thereabouts) of summer. Not that we're letting the season TOTALLY dictate our choices in this episode, although (spoiler alert) our bar review and interview sees us soaking up the rays in France…

But first, our two featured products – which couldn't be more different. On one hand, we have the joyous Seven Tails Spiced Brandy, and on the other, we taste the No 52 Martini created by Sotiris Konomi at The Spy Bar in honour of a very special friend, the late and very great journalist and author, Forest Collins of 52 Martinis.

Our book is highly recommended for those who want to gen up on all things slow, botanical and infused– it's Wild Drinks – The New Old World of Small Batch Brews, Ferments and Infusions by Sharon Flynn. Then we head off to the stunning Maybourne Riviera where we catch up with Julien Lecharpentier and Laure Ferrand to talk about the liquid delights on their new menu, Identité.

For more from The Cocktail Lovers, visit thecocktaillovers.com

For the products featured in this episode, see websites below:

What we're mixing:

Italicus Spritz

1 part Italicus Rosalio di Bergamotto

3 parts Prosecco

3 green olives (garnish)

Method: Add Italicus Rosalio di Bergamotto and Prosecco to an ice-filled highball glass. Gently combine ingredients with a mixing spoon and garnish with 3 olives pierced on to a cocktail stick

Le300 at The Maybourne Riviera

Seven Tails Spiced Brandy

The Spy Bar at OWO

Wild Drinks – The New Old World of Small Batch Brews, Ferments and Infusions by Sharon Flynn

Forest Collins' reviews about the people and places in Paris can be appreciated at 52martinis.com

With thanks to our partners:Can Makers

The Cocktail Lovers theme music is by Travis 'T-Bone' WatsonEdited by Christian Fox

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