At Lifestyle TOPS, our Liquor and Wine Specialist, Eamonn Dowling, is passionate about helping customers discover exceptional wines, whiskies and seasonal favourites, while sharing the stories and heritage behind every bottle. This winter, Eamonn has curated a selection of comforting winter warmers designed for cosy nights in, for relaxed Ballito entertaining.
Bumbu Rum
Winning five gold medals in two years, Bumbu Rum is perfect for slow winter evenings and fireside gatherings, bringing warmth and indulgence to the colder season. The rum is crafted from a blend of the finest sugarcane they can find. Their rums are exceptionally balanced and smooth, full of character with layers of vanilla, caramel and spice. The ultra-heavyweight glass bottle is a work of art on its own, adorned with a tarnished metal “X” in front and map of the Caribbean across the back. Sip your Bumbu straight, try it over ice or in your favourite cocktail. Pair with sticky glazed ribs, dark chocolate desserts, spiced nuts or rich bread-and-butter pudding, for a comforting seasonal treat.
Ferreira Porto Ruby
Produced in the Douro region with more than 250 years of excellence that established Ferreira as leading quality winemakers and the number one brand in Portugal. Porto Ferreira Ruby has an intense and well defined ruby hue, showing the quality of the selected wines. Its intense aroma is reminiscent of very ripe fruit, fine-tuned through its careful ageing in wood as well as through the blending carried out during its natural ageing process. Full-bodied and rich, it has a fine balance between its sweetness and its tannin structure, giving it unique characteristics with a fine and attractive long finish. Pairs beautifully with decadent chocolate desserts, savoury blue cheeses and fruit tarts. A perfect after dinner companion during the winter months.
Van Ryns Single Potstill Brandy Aged 12
Van Ryn’s 12 Year Single Potstill Brandy has won numerous international awards, officially confirming its status as the best brandy in the world. Reveals luxurious layers of dried fruit, red berries, vanilla, cinnamon, sweet tobacco and delicate oak spice. Its smooth, lingering finish makes it ideal for cooler evenings beside the fire. Best enjoyed neat or slightly warmed. Pairs with roasted nuts, dark chocolate, rich fruitcake or hearty winter desserts.
