Warming Wines & Spirits for November 5th

The crackle of the fire, the bang of fireworks, and the comforting smell of smoke and autumn food in the air. Bonfire Night is a celebration of warmth and a reason to come together. And of course, the right bottle can make the evening even more memorable.

We’ve chosen four standout bottles for November 5th, each with character, depth, and a touch of smokiness or spice that makes them the perfect partners for firelit feasts and classic Bonfire Night treats.

Domaine Bruno Blondelet Pouilly Fumé 2023 – £20.99

Pouilly Fumé, from the Loire Valley in France, is famed for its signature flinty, smoky edge, making it a natural fit for Bonfire Night. Domaine Bruno Blondelet’s 2023 vintage balances citrus brightness with elegant minerality. Aromas of grapefruit, lime, and white flowers are layered over a subtle smokiness, while the palate is crisp, clean, and refreshing with a long, zesty finish.

Perfect Pairings: The wine’s freshness lifts richer Bonfire Night foods. Try it alongside creamy pumpkin or squash soup, or pair with roasted chestnuts to mirror its nutty, smoky undertones.

Ardnamurchan “The Midgie” Single Malt Highland Whisky 48% – £59.99

From Scotland’s rugged westernmost distillery, Ardnamurchan’s The Midgie is a small-batch single malt that delivers warmth in every sip. Aged in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks, it reveals layers of honey, malted barley, dried fruits, and sweet spice. The 48% ABV gives it an intensity that’s bold without being harsh, with a lingering finish of smoke and heather.

Perfect Pairings: A dram by the fire is hard to beat, but it’s also a great partner for Bonfire Night sweets. Try it with toffee apples, the whisky’s caramel and spice play beautifully against the sticky sweetness, or sip it slowly alongside gooey S’mores.

Mezcal Amaras Verde 42% – £44.99

If whisky is the drink of Scotland’s bonfires, mezcal is the soul of smoky celebrations in Mexico. Amaras Verde is handmade with Espadín agave, roasted in earthen pits to capture its distinctive smokiness. Expect a nose of citrus peel, herbs, and a whiff of campfire smoke. On the palate it’s bold but smooth, with green pepper, roasted agave, and a peppery finish that lingers.

Perfect Pairings: Its smoky, savoury edge makes it an excellent match for Bonfire Night hot dogs, spicy sausages, or anything flame-grilled. For a bold twist, sip mezcal between bites of charred sweetcorn or spiced veggie chilli.

Goldstone Dark Rum – £41.99

Closer to home, Sussex’s own Goldstone Distillery has created a rich, characterful dark rum that’s tailor-made for autumn evenings. Aged with care, it delivers aromas of treacle, molasses, and dark chocolate. On the palate you’ll find warming notes of caramel, coffee, baking spice, and dried fruit, rounded by a smooth, lingering finish. It’s versatile too – enjoy it neat, mix it into cocktails, or transform a hot chocolate for the ultimate Bonfire Night treat.

Perfect Pairings: Dark rum’s richness pairs beautifully with roasted nuts and sugary sweets. Think roasted chestnuts, sticky parkin cake, or toffee apples. For something truly indulgent, splash a little into your hot chocolate and top up with marshmallows.

Fireworks, Food & Festivities

Gathering round the fire has always been a natural way of bringing us closer, sharing stories, laughter, food and drink. 5th of November is the ultimate fire gathering and the perfect time to meet up with friends and loved ones to wrap up warm, light a sparkler and bask in the glow of shared festivities. Join Butler's in this special seasonal event and have a drink to remember.