New Year's Hours, Sparkles Galore, Bye Bye 2023!
H E L L O
C L A PT O N C R A F T
C R E W !
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Firstly, we hope you had an amazing Christmas, filled with great food, rest and, of course, good booze aplenty. We couldn't resist dropping back into your inboxes one last time this year, though it's just a quick one to peruse over with that deserved midday glass of vino.
Our final festive hours are detailed below (with our drink-in sites open a little later), and there's also a nod to our pretty special sparkling selection, as well as our Brewery Of The Year 2023, in DEYA. But, first, something else that we're always keen to say around this time of the year...
A H U G E
T H A N K S F R O M
T E A M C C
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As we're about to bring in the New Year, it seems fitting to take the opportunity to give a massive shout-out to our amazing team! We've faced increasing challenges this year, but their dedication, knowledge and creativity has seen us come out the other side even stronger.
Along the way we're delighted to have introduced some new faces, and we've been equally sad to let some real legends of the game leave for pastures new. Truly, the people make Clapton Craft what it is, and we couldn't be more proud of everyone's commitment to the cause!
It (hopefully) goes without saying we wouldn't be where we are without all your friendly faces through the doors every day, in our bricks and mortar shops, and via the magic of the internet. Considering the current climate, and the ever-increasing list of amazing pubs, restaurants, breweries and bottle shops closing, we really value every last drop of your continued support. Who knows what 2024 will hold but we hope to have you all along for the ride again...
While we're on the topic, we can't forget all our amazing suppliers who truly make the industry a joy and a privilege to be a part of. Over the last year we've made some great new friends, as well as solidifying our relationship with those who we've stocked since day one.
And, this has been exemplified in another mega year for collaboration releases, that has seen us work with all of this rowdy lot: Pastore, Time & Tide, Braybrooke, Whitebox, DEYA, Drop Project, East London Liquor Company, Two Flints, Pillars and Howling Hops.
Of course, this doesn't even factor in our foray into importing wine ourselves. You might not know but just under 50% of vino now sold are Clapton Craft house lines or exclusives you'll struggle to find elsewhere in the UK. We work regularly with over 25 makers, such as Reverte (Garnacha), Celler Cal Costas (Xarel-Lo), Henry Fuchs, Roche Audran, Domaine De La Mongestine, L'Aumonier and so many more.
Working more closely alongside some of our favourite producers has really opened our eyes, especially on a production level as to the current issues facing makers, and just how much effort goes into making sure amazing quality products land safely with us, at a fair price.
Continuing to learn things from a different perspective has really reignited our passion for the industry, and you best believe we'll tee up some equally exciting collaborations next year. The only question is who do we team up with next?
B I G B O T T L E S
F O R T H E
B I G D A Y
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As to the celebrations nearly at hand, whether you're a Champers, Vouvray, Prosecco, or Pet Nat kinda person, we've most certainly got you covered for any sparkling specials to ring in the New Year.
If you're in need of a couple of quick recommendations, our house Prosecco Tradizione Antica with Le Spinee is straight party perfection. Light, clean, and crisp with a savoury touch this is bound to keep everyone happy.
For something a little more indulgent Henry Fuch's Cremant D'Alsace is all rich lemon curd, with toasty rich aromas and wonderful mouth-filling fizz. But if you're after the 'real deal', Michel Gonet's 3 Terroirs Blanc is an extra brut Champagne with elegant, racy acidity rounded off with a delightfully creamy, orchard-fresh mouthfeel.
Finally, if you fancy something a little more out there, Les Chemins De Bassac have an all Pinot Noir Pet Nat Obscure that has the bone-dry brilliance you need to get the family on side, with gently funky notes of pomegranate and strawberry delivering a little intrigue. Similarly, Domaine De l'Aumonier's Au Gre Du Vent is technically another Pet Nat, but with 12 months on lees, brioche aromas and beautifully fine bubbles, it drinks more like a top quality crΓ©mant!
B R E W E R Y
O F T H E
Y E A R
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Following a pretty faultless 2023, we announced our Brewery Of The Year, DEYA just last week. And, it's not too late to get in on a sip of the action with double loyalty points and 10% off 6 or more online extending until next Friday, January 5th. With an epic line-up there's a lot to try so be sure to raise a glass to the Cheltenham massive, whether you're a regular or a first-timer!
A Very Happy New Year To You & We'll See You In 2024! - Team CC