SPIRITS were high at the Geraldo’s drinks festival at the weekend.

Around 130 people attended an evening of artesian drinks at the Brisbane Hotel, as well as taking part in masterclasses with the likes of Arran Distillery.

This was the first time the event had broadened its horizons from gin, offering whiskey, rum and cocktails.

Event organiser Toni Dawson said: “I was really pleased. It was so good both customers and producers were positive about it.

“It was a lovely mix of people and it was a more intimate and relaxed affair than previously, which allowed everyone to chat and interact.

“The masterclasses were very popular were fully booked on the night.

“I have to say one of the highlights was definitely ‘Nippy Nora’ serving up her cocktails and banter to the customers.

“I think since we branched out from just gin we have attracted a different clientele and age range, people in their 30’s up to mid-50’s.

“We also seemed to have a lot of interest from whisky drinkers, as whisky collecting is something a lot of people are really in to.

“We had a really nice night for it too and people could wander outside and enjoy the sun in the grounds of the hotel.”

Geraldo’s will be hosting their annual gin festival on November 17, with updates available at www.geraldos.co.uk