From the monks of St Aidan's Distillery on the holy island of Lindisfarne comes this toffee-flavoured vodka liqueur, a spirit that makes absolutely no pretence about what it is. This is liquid toffee with a gentle alcoholic kick, and if that sounds appealing, you will not be disappointed.
At 18% ABV, this sits firmly in liqueur territory rather than vodka proper. The nose is all butterscotch and caramel, with a vanilla warmth that borders on the confectionery. The palate delivers exactly what the nose promises — thick, sweet, and intensely toffee-flavoured.
The key to enjoying Lindisfarne is temperature. Served warm, the sweetness can be cloying. Chilled thoroughly or poured over ice, it becomes a rather more pleasant after-dinner treat. It also works surprisingly well drizzled over vanilla ice cream, if we are being completely honest about its target market.
At £19.50 for 50cl, it is reasonably priced for what it is. This is not a spirit for connoisseurs, but it has its place — Christmas gifts, dessert courses, and anyone with a serious sweet tooth will find something to enjoy here.
