Looking to bring home unique souvenirs from your travels? Here are five standout bottles recommended by HTSI’s drinks expert to pack for your summer return.
Faccia Brutto Centerbe Herbal Liqueur
Feeling the pinch of the Green Chartreuse shortage? Head over to Astor Wines & Spirits in Manhattan for Faccia Brutto Centerbe. Priced at $49.96 for 75cl, this emerald-green herbal liqueur, crafted at Brooklyn’s Faccia Brutto distillery, offers a delightful alternative.
Henri Giraud Ratafia
Ratafia, once seen as a relic of the past, is making a comeback, especially at Champagne Henri Giraud in Aÿ. Their Ratafia Solera 90-19 and Ratafia Vieillissement Exceptionnel blend eaux de vie with Champagne grape juice, resulting in rich flavors of apricot, nuts, and spices. Consider these for a sophisticated after-dinner indulgence.
Château Nagu’s Frontier Wines
Witnessing a rise in winemaking due to climate change, Château Nagu in Finland’s Nagu archipelago grows Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in glasshouses and open-air vineyards. Although their 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon (€1,050) debuts in 2026, you can sign up early and explore their vineyards and summer art exhibitions.
QDOL Sea Salt Soda
For quirky finds, explore local supermarkets like Tokyo’s for treats such as QDOL Sea Salt Soda, adorned with a cult video game character from King of Fighters 97. Despite its misleading name, it offers a cream soda-like taste—a fun surprise for the family.
The Lakes Distillery Kairos “Whiskymaker’s Edition”
Exclusive to visitors, The Lakes Distillery in Cockermouth offers the Kairos “Whiskymaker’s Edition” (£80 for 70cl). Ideal for fans of sherried malts akin to Macallan, this limited edition is complemented by distillery tours and alpaca feeding—a memorable excursion indeed.
Each of these bottles promises to capture the essence of your journey, making them perfect additions to your holiday memories.