Fortnum & Mason Toasted Panettone & Saffron Liqueur – 21.9% ABV, £35/50cl
This festive season, the iconic grocer Fortnum & Mason launches its latest indulgent innovation: the exclusive Toasted Panettone & Saffron Liqueur. This new release, made by Cotswolds-based makers of exquisite liqueurs, Reverend Hubert, is inspired by the opulent flavours of toasted panettone and luxurious saffron—a perfect addition to Fortnum’s renowned festive drinks offering.
Rich gold in colour, the liqueur greets with aromas of hot buttered toast and opulent saffron, leading to a palate of candied orange, lemon, heady-sweet dough, and a subtle saffron dryness. Its lasting impression is long and surprisingly clean, inviting the next sip.
This truly unique liqueur blends British wheat spirit with Italian crystallised glacé fruits, rich butter, plump raisins, and fine saffron. A perfect embodiment of Fortnum’s festive spirit, this offering ties into the grocer’s long history of sourcing and creating extraordinary products for its customers.
Oscar Dodd, Drinks Buyer at Fortnum & Mason, said: “Panettone is a staple of Fortnum’s festive offerings, so it was high time this iconic Italian delicacy was reimagined for our Wine & Spirits department. By combining the familiar, indulgent flavours of toasted panettone with the luxurious warmth of saffron, we’ve created a liqueur that feels both comfortingly traditional and excitingly new – perfect for celebrating the festive season.”
Thomas Lester, Managing Director at Reverend Hubert, added: “At Reverend Hubert, our passion for crafting liqueurs stems from a rich family heritage and this Toasted Panettone & Saffron Liqueur reflects our commitment to quality and innovation. By marrying the traditional flavours of toasted Panettone with the luxurious essence of saffron, we’ve created a distinctive spirit that pays homage to our legacy while appealing to modern palates.”
This sumptuous liqueur is an ideal accompaniment to Panettone, fruity desserts, and after-dinner coffee. It can also be enjoyed in a simple festive cocktail—simply pour 25ml into a chilled Champagne flute and top with sparkling wine for a special toast.
This exceptional liqueur is rooted in the rich history of saffron in the UK, which was first introduced to Cornwall in the 14th century and used in the baking of bread cherished by the Duke of Cornwall, the King’s eldest son. This connection is especially significant given Fortnum & Mason’s enduring relationship with the British Royal household, established in 1707 when Queen Anne allowed footman William Fortnum to sell discarded candles from St James’s Palace. Fortnum & Mason’s two Royal Warrants also highlight its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
This liqueur is also vegan-friendly, gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free, making it an inclusive choice for all festive celebrations.
Available now, in-store and online at Fortnum & Mason.