A client generously gifted me a six-bottle case of ultra-luxury champagne Boêrl & Kroff. After witnessing the market value increase, I made the decision to sell three bottles at a significant premium, while retaining the remaining three bottles. These were served to guests at my wedding celebration in July 2019, where their exceptional quality and rarity made them a memorable highlight of our special day.

I've tried several whiskies throughout various tastings at our events and after some time my palette became more refined and Tamdhu is a personal favourite with its caramel finish. I discovered this at a tasting we had at one of our prestigious events.

Favourite drink is between Cognac and Tequila. I became a massive fan when enjoying cocktails on vacation became a regular tradition! I was gifted a bottle of Hennessy Paradis & Louis XIII Cognac Classic & Magnum.

As someone who has an inherent love for all things Italy I lean towards a full bodied Tuscan red when out for dinner however where my interests truly lay is with Scottish whisky. I was introduced to an incredibly aged Scotch many years ago which snowballed into building my own collection of fine and rare bottles many of which I enjoy and gift to friends and family, on occasion.

I've been drinking whiskies for over 15 years. When people ask me what's my favourite, this is like asking, what is your favourite song? Who has only one favourite song!? When people ask me this kind of question at the pub, I tell them about the distilleries – which I respect the most for their innovation and attention to craft.

With my parents coming from Madeira, and the island famous for the wine it produces, I would have to say that the vintage wine from my home island is my favourite drink. I am also a big fan of port and I have invested in my own collection of wines which I like to enjoy on special occasions, usually with my wife.

As an avid traveller, I’ve had the privilege of sampling fine spirits across the globe. One unforgettable highlight was my time in Mexico, where I savoured some of the most sought-after authentic tequilas. While my Spanish is only conversational at best, ordering a neat Maestro Dobel Diamante needs no translation.

On my birthday one year, I was given a bottle of Silver Oak 2009, and it quickly became a favourite. The elegance and depth of that wine left such an impression that I haven’t found anything quite as exceptional since.

Before discovering fine whisky, my passion was cocktails, I was drawn to their creativity and the rhythm of life behind the bar. That changed when I first tasted Redbreast Irish Whiskey, a spirit that revealed the quiet depth and craftsmanship behind great distillation and aging. From there, I fell in love with the refinement of Cognac and, eventually, the honeyed, waxy joy of old Clynelish. What began as curiosity has become a lifelong pursuit of finding new bottles and discovering their taste and stories. At Hackstons, I’m proud to share that same spirit of discovery with every client who walks through our doors.

Before discovering wine, my passion was finance—I was drawn to its complexity and structure. That changed when I began working with an independent winemaker in the Southern Rhône, where I fell in love with the beauty of such a noble product. Since then, I've worked with a producer in Jurançon and at a few wine bars in London, and what started as curiosity has grown into a true calling. My drink of choice? Any old vintage from Cornas, Côte-Rôtie, or Crozes-Hermitage, alongside a nice côte de Boeuf.

In life, there's always time to celebrate, whether it's a big milestone or a quiet moment of joy, a bottle of Ruinart Blanc De Blanc makes every occasion feel a little more special. Likewise you cant go wrong with a glass of Chablis Grand Cru. Each sip is an invitation to slow down and appreciate the artistry and tradition behind these exceptional wines.

White wine has a special place in my heart for its refreshing qualities and versatility. The crisp, vibrant flavours can elevate any occasion, whether I'm enjoying a sunny afternoon on the patio or sharing a meal with friends. I love how white wine pairs beautifully with a variety of foods, enhancing both the dish and the experience. It’s a celebration in a glass, inviting laughter, conversation, and the simple joy of savouring life’s moments.