Ki Price/ Emulsion London
Hotel du Vin have teamed up with Fever-Tree, launching their gin-inspired afternoon tea menu, so naturally we had to go along for ourselves to put these delicious treats to the test.
Stepping into Hotel du Vin in Newcastle, the building used to be the HQ of a shipping company and its historical charm has been maintained. Exposed brickwork interiors are offset against contemporary touches such as a wine glass chandelier. You can also cosy up by a luxurious fire; ideal for lazy autumn lounging.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted with menus and asked which tea we would like. Although both choosing delicious hot coffee, up for grabs are lots of Twinings favourites such as; Elderflower & Blossom Darjeeling, Moroccan Mint with Rose and Pure Camomile.
For those of us fancying something a little stronger, the gin options are extremely enticing. You can choose from an array of alcoholic wonders including; Sipsmith Sloe & Lemon Tonic, Hendrick’s & Elderflower Tonic, Gin Mare & Mediterranean Tonic and Carounn & Indian Tonic. A fresh addition which throws a delightful twist into your standard menu, we love this idea. Perfect for hen parties, dates and girly time, sipping on a special gin and tonic within the glorious setting of Hotel du Vin Newcastle has to be one of the best ways to spend and afternoon.
Onto the food, and we have to say, we were seriously impressed with the spread provided. To start with, we received plates of savoury snacks covering everything from a Severn and Wye smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel and goat’s cheese and spinach quiche, to a heritage tomato and tapenade galette, egg and cress mayonnaise brioche and ham with Gruyere croissant. Gluten-free options are also available. Full of sumptuous food, we clearly still had room to spare for the sweet delights to follow.
Presented on afternoon tea towers, scones with clotted cream and jam were nestled underneath mini lemon meringue pies, raspberry and dark chocolate teacakes, rhubarb and custard donuts and knickerbocker glories, finished off with the piece de resistance of, candy floss.
It’s safe to say that some afternoon tea selections can be a bit of a tired format, but seriously, this was one of the best collections we have ever come across. The flavours were massively more-ish, the miniatures looked exquisite and, with a side of gin; what else could you ask for?
Afternoon tea is priced at £20. Gins start at £7.30 per drink.