Cottons is a Caribbean restaurant (four locations – in every corner of London now) not only famous for its flavour full food, but also for its collection of rum. They even have the Guinness World Record certificate to prove it!
Thanks to being on the Cottons newsletter (for events and special offers) I found out about the rum masterclasses that are offered at the Notting Hill branch and was able to get a session. In a nutshell, Cottons in conjunction with a host of different rum brands, offers a 90 minute informal session where you have the opportunity to learn something about rum production in general, then smell and taste the range of the hosting brand.
On arrival you get offered a cocktail to get started while waiting for other guests and having a look around the impressive bar.
Our masterclass was hosted by Ben, from Highball brands, who are the UK distributor for Takamaka Rum, ‘the spirit of the Seychelles’. Yes the Seychelles! the other side of the world from where you traditionally think rum is made, but the climate is perfect for the cane!
We were fortunate enough to taste five of the Takamaka range including their white rum, dark spiced rum and the coconut rum (favourite!).
The class ended, but the bottles were not empty so tops and tasting some more!
After all that alcohol (remember straight rum tasting, no mixers), food was definitely needed, if we were to make it home. Having enjoyed eating in the Camden Cottons, we were excited for dinner and it did not disappoint. We went for the Mix Meat Grill – which is filling by far and great value for money dish, with a nice spicy kick.
Looking at the booking options, I think definitely booking the class and meal is worth it. I’ve since seen that they also do cocktail making workshops, so that will be added to my to do list! Definitely a place to check either just for drinks (the selections are seriously impressive!), but the food is delicious too and quite a lot of variety.
