We all know one of the finest ways to spend a summer's day is sat in the ROSL Garden overlooking Green Park, with one of your favourite tipples in hand. A glass of Pimm's perhaps, a Gin and Tonic, or a glass of wine? Have any of you ever wondered about the history of the drinks you're enjoying and how they are deeply entwined with the history of this city? Well, in August you'll be able to find out more as Dr Matthew Green takes you on a walking tour around London, explaining its history in five drinks.
Following the success of last year's Medieval Wine Tour, Matthew is back with an epic new whirlwind tour through the metropolis exploring how five drinks forged modern London.
Beginning outside St Michael’s Church, Cornhill, explore how, from the 1650s, “bitter Muhammedan gruel” – coffee – and “the drink of the Gods” – hot chocolate – transformed the social fabric of London forever. From there sip wine from coconut shells and learn about the snobbery of wine during the times of the warlords of Anglo-Saxon England, before enjoying a pint of beer in one of the oldest taverns of London.
For the finale, leapfrog to the present at the City of London Distillery, which was at the heart of London’s recent “Ginnaissance”. This chic venue is leading the way in rehabilitating what was once widely regarded as an agent of oblivion and scourge of the working glasses.
Taking place on 18 August, tickets cost £40 per person. Book yours here.
If you can't wait that long, Davys Wine Merchants, who provide ROSL's club wines, will be hosting a wine tasting in the Garden on 1 August. This new collection comes from the Court Garden Vineyard & Winery, an international award-winning, family-run winery based in East Sussex. Enjoy a variety of flavours as the owners take you through the history of their single-estate vineyard and a selection of their finest wines.
Tickets cost £20 for members and £25 for guests. Book here.
Of course, you needn't attend an event if you just want to enjoy a drink in this beautiful setting. Keep an eye out in the Duke of York Bar and Brabourne Room as we offer summer specials to suit every taste, whether that be the wine of the month, or a cocktail jug of Pimm's or Aperol Spritz. Cheers!
