Breadcrumbs [Home](/index%2Ephp/) > [My Life In Booze: Stephen Cronk](/index%2Ephp/markdownify/node/3101) ![ My Life In Booze: Stephen Cronk](https://media.slman.com/x_4BK-5JJw2q7O4Jn34heHA5lPk=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fslman-site-assets-100924-thumb-my-life-in-booze-mirabeau-founder.png) Photography: THE GUARD'S BAR & LOUNGE AT THE OWO [Food & Drink](/index%2Ephp/life/food-drink) / 11 September 2024 # My Life In Booze: Stephen Cronk Stephen Cronk is co-founder and president of Maison Mirabeau – the Provençal rosé brand you see in all the right places. We asked the veteran winemaker about his own favourite drinks, bars and boozers. Photography: THE GUARD'S BAR & LOUNGE AT THE OWO [ ![The Connaught](https://media.slman.com/DcbMmvep3o4jkRzB64VSNo1DtRM=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fslman-stevn-cronk-my-live-in-booze-connaught-bar_0.png) ](https://www.the-connaught.co.uk) The Connaught **The first drink I ever enjoyed was a pint of bitter.** I snuck out of school one evening when I was about 16, and some of the older kids treated me to a classic warm, flat English beer. That sparked my love for beer, which eventually led to a love of wine. Like most people, I drink more selectively these days – I want to really enjoy the moment. **I** **could talk about my favourite wines for hours, but some of the best these days are the sustainable ones.** A friend of mine makes an incredible chenin blanc from Anjou called [Domaine Belargus](https://www.belargus.com/) – I love a Ronceray white as it’s so elegant. This one has notes of peach and pear, but also a fresh salinity. Close to our vineyard in Provence is a young regenerative farmer in Bandol, making a great red called [For My Dad](https://www.vivino.com/GB/en/castell-reynoard-for-my-dad/w/5733897?srsltid=AfmBOopJ69pSbgyXpQHxD5Lsl58esrutKkDQhjhFyzV4aMz5TA2ho9cU). It’s made of mainly grenache and mourvedre grapes. The fruit is so present and it’s gorgeous and silky, reminiscent of a balmy evening in the South of France. I also have to give my own regeneratively farmed rosé, [La Réserve](https://www.maisonmirabeau.com/our-range/domaine-mirabeau-la-reserve-rose/), a little plug, because, even if I am biased, I love every moment when I drink it. I love rosé because it quenches your thirst and cleanses the palate. **But sometimes, only a beer hits the spot.** We have a great microbrewery in our village in Provence called [La Tuf](https://www.loucalen.com/en/bar_restauration/la-tuf-microbrewery/), so that’s my go-to. When I’m London I love drinking London Pride from [Fuller’s Brewery](https://www.fullersbrewery.co.uk/). When it comes to beer and wine – and also cocktails – a good drink is all about balance. Anything that’s out of balance will be a disappointment and you’ll be wondering what’s missing or not right. And I love flavours that surprise, something that makes you stop and think ‘wow’ as you sip is fantastic. **I’m a big fan of both champagne and English sparkling wine.** I’ve been sampling some great English sparklers, including [Blanc de Noir](https://coatesandseely.com/product/blanc-de-noirs-2014-vintage-la-perfide/) from our friends over at [Coates and Seely](https://coatesandseely.com/), as well as the delicious [White Cliffs Blanc de Blancs](https://simpsonswine.com/products/white-cliffs-blanc-de-blancs-2019?srsltid=AfmBOoqb7izvc0jrxPNS3D7Ch1Jgg9fdaNloY8712JspYslfQDEfh6Py) from the [Simpson’s](https://simpsonswine.com/) family-run wine estate in Kent. My wife Jeany and I work with a small champagne house in France called [Philipponnat](https://www.philipponnat.com/), which makes an awesome rosé cuvée, as well as a delicious reserve with zero dosage if you like your champagne ultra-dry. [ ![La Tuf](https://media.slman.com/p2vVaeR62c-rErmAnIAr-1PtQfY=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fslman-stevn-cronk-my-live-in-booze-la-tuf.png) ](https://www.loucalen.com/en/bar_restauration/la-tuf-microbrewery/) La Tuf **When I’m at home, I like to make gin palomas using our** [**Mirabeau Rosé Gin**](https://www.waitrosecellar.com/spirit-type/mirabeau-rose-gin-797717?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw8rW2BhAgEiwAoRO5rLIbtPLVBeWFbDFAKMsMFE6ZhpgzRl2zMMJIuFdl6rXPlZwqQhq2FBoCYdQQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)**.** Made from grapes, it’s refreshing, light and perfect for warmer days. To make it, fill a large wine glass with ice. Then add in a double measure of gin (50ml), a simple measure of fresh grapefruit juice (30ml), the juice of half a lime, and a tablespoon of agave syrup. Give it a gentle stir and top up with soda. I like to decorate it with a large pink grapefruit peel – give it a slight twist before adding to the drink to express some essential oils. You could even add a sprig of rosemary. **The most memorable cocktail I’ve ever had was a negroni at** [**Mr Fogg’s Residence**](https://www.mr-foggs.com/mr-foggs-residence/) **in Mayfair.** It was my first ever negroni and it couldn’t have been in a better bar. To me, a good bar must have a high-quality cocktail list, great ambience, and friendly people behind it. It’s a special moment when you watch someone make your drink. I’ll always have a quick chat with the barman to ask about their inspiration and pick up any at-home tips. **If I’m out with my mates, I order a pint of real ale or a Guinness**. I also love a cold weissbier, ideally with some Bavarian sausages, which reminds me of the amazing wedding breakfast we had the day after we got married many years ago. **When I have friends over, I like to serve rosé from a magnum because it’s fun and more impactful.** Nothing is more special than sharing a bottle with the people you love. I proposed to my wife Jeany over rosé, so even before we were making it, it had a special place in our lives. **My favourite spirit brand is** [**Oban**](https://www.obanwhisky.com/)**.** It’s such a classic and you get the quality whisky you pay for. I also rate [Sapling Spirits](https://saplingspirits.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorlQJmCPYexLwoj00TXAddSadTMtxZ4zPJR9_igXjlT3TVlu2ao) and [Discarded Spirits](https://www.discardedspirits.com/) for their dedication to sustainability and commitment to making a positive change. Of course, the drinks are great too. [ ![The Guard's Bar & Lounge At The OWO](https://media.slman.com/6l7GTtJnuMMX94tUhTtZSTVCo-o=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fslman-stevn-cronk-my-live-in-booze-the-guards-bar-lounge-at-the-owo.png) ](https://theowo.london/the-guards-bar-and-lounge) The Guard's Bar & Lounge At The OWO **The most expensive drink I’ve ever ordered was a bottle of** [**Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon**](https://www.bbr.com/producer-36-stag-s-leap-wine-cellars?srsltid=AfmBOoozlUKcGyIgdlxiT8Tiw_ZPKXm-rcS4jTXb9bw3PdgrhflG5yDZ)**.** We were at a very nice steak restaurant in Dallas and… I wasn’t paying! So yes, it was definitely worth it. And the strangest drink I’ve ever had was a cocktail made with mezcal infused with worms. I’ve been told the worms add a silk texture to the finished product. It was indeed a very tasty drink. **One of my favourite pubs is** [**The Orange**](https://www.cubitthouse.co.uk/the-orange-boutique-hotel-belgravia/) **in Pimlico.** It’s a Cubitt House establishment so you can trust everything will be spot on, from the cool interiors to the food and its selection of beers. For a special occasion, [The Connaught Bar](https://www.the-connaught.co.uk/restaurants-bars/connaught-bar/) is awesome, as is the new [The Guard's Bar & Lounge at the OWO](https://www.raffles.com/london/dining/the-guards-bar-and-lounge/), where we have a cocktail on the list. We like to pop in for a glass of wine, followed by some small plates at [St John](https://stjohnrestaurant.com/) which is near our home. **I still love a well-made G&T with a good-quality gin.** I pop the gin in the freezer and use the classic Fever-Tree Indian Tonic. It’s so refreshing and is easy to make when you come home after a long day. I add a slice of citrus, rosemary sprig and lots of ice. When I’m not drinking, I like [Mother Root](https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=l&ai=DChcSEwjE-73q5pWIAxXqq2YCHZZCB1EYABAIGgJzbQ&co=1&ase=2&gclid=CjwKCAjw8rW2BhAgEiwAoRO5rPd8bbVLqD1G5yAOSvXowAvHymaFKap_w8QIgO28UvF0pf7v5JqUFxoCPxQQAvD_BwE&ei=HhvOZsDcE-Ph7_UP-Nr0wAE&sig=AOD64_0xll7OEySRbedOFl7h8FhUyrnDeQ&q&sqi=2&nis=4&adurl&ved=2ahUKEwjA463q5pWIAxXj8LsIHXgtHRgQ0Qx6BAgLEAE), an alcohol-free aperitif, which is great with a large wedge of lemon and sparkling water. **Every at-home bar should have a good bottle of gin and a scotch whisky.** Also, a nice bottle of vermouth – I like [Vault](https://www.vaultaperitivo.com/?) – and some good bitters like [Luxardo](https://www.luxardo.it/). That’s all you need to make good, easy drinks. My dream bar would have [Richard Brendon](https://richardbrendon.com/?) glasses. All his glassware is top of the game, and I love the wine glasses he made with Jancis Robinson. They convinced me that nice glasses make a real difference to the experience. **I try not to have too many hangovers these days.** The secret is to stop drinking a little earlier and to have some food. But if it’s a big night, a sachet of electrolytes with plenty of water before I go to bed helps curb a hangover. That and some scrambled egg on sourdough, with a strong coffee when I wake up to blow off the cobwebs. Visit [MaisonMirabeau.com](https://www.maisonmirabeau.com) [ ![The Connaught](https://media.slman.com/_gg5ggMGPChFxeZ_jd_c73IG180=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fslman-stevn-cronk-my-live-in-booze-connaught-bar2.png) ](https://www.the-connaught.co.uk) The Connaught --- ## SHOP STEPHEN'S FAVOURITES BELOW ![Belargus Anjou Magnum 2020 from Bonnes Blanches](https://media.slman.com/lM_7XrhGVGutJ_4wx0NqGSZvh3w=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fbelargus-bonnes-blanches-magnum-2020-shrine-to-the-vine.png) [#### Belargus Anjou Magnum 2020](https://shrinetothevine.co.uk/products/belargus-bonnes-blanches-magnum-2020) ##### Bonnes Blanches £235 ![Discarded Grape Skin Chardonnay Vodka from Discarded Spirits Co](https://media.slman.com/wkfhnkqCtZLYoJHR2hbviB30DoA=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fdiscarded-grape-skin-vodka.png) [#### Discarded Grape Skin Chardonnay Vodka](https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/59997/discarded-grape-skin-chardonnay-vodka?) ##### Discarded Spirits Co £30.75 ![Maraschino Liqueur from Luxardo](https://media.slman.com/EgzIyJ2IG8JIW-CAwIJbtzWHd4g=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fluxardo-maraschino-liqueur.png) [#### Maraschino Liqueur](https://www.masterofmalt.com/liqueurs/luxardo-maraschino-liqueur-70cl/?) ##### Luxardo £30.95 ![Pure Provence Rose from Mirabeau ](https://media.slman.com/v3XAw0O_QYzt7kCxtSmx-8iwh0s=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fmirabeau-pure-provence-rose-75cl.png) [#### Pure Provence Rose](https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/308827697) ##### Mirabeau £16.50 ![ 14 Year Old Scotch Whisky from Oban](https://media.slman.com/Xyw-2F3ZvUBTNb6WXCQZFh9DQBE=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Foban-14-year-old.png) [#### 14 Year Old Scotch Whisky](https://www.drinksinc.com/products/oban-14-year-old-scotch-whisky-700ml) ##### Oban Price On Enquiry ![Original Wine Glass / Set of 2 from Richard Brendon ](https://media.slman.com/Fj-NW3ykjsxkzkwd26BBDTHdX1E=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Frichard-brendon-the-original-wine-glass-set-of-2-or-6.png) [#### Original Wine Glass / Set of 2](https://www.boroughkitchen.com/products/rb-jr-fine-crystal-original-wine-glasses-set-of-2?variant=34180499013764) ##### Richard Brendon £90 ![Royale Reserve Bottle from Philipponnat](https://media.slman.com/tUsQs5Cwg0vkd6Dl1e7qjPEgx-E=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fphilipponnat-royale-reserve-brut-champagne-nv-75cl.png) [#### Royale Reserve Bottle ](https://www.plus-de-bulles.co.uk/en/champagne-philipponnat/315-royale-reserve-3370896001007.html) ##### Philipponnat €46.50 ![Premium Indian Tonic Water from Fever Tree](https://media.slman.com/CVZKNkW2ndVrLf6xhTZjQNSDx_k=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Ffever-tree-premium-indian-tonic-water-500ml.png) [#### Premium Indian Tonic Water](https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/267004604) ##### Fever Tree £2.20 ![Dry Rose Gin from Mirabeau](https://media.slman.com/TPAw-EJ0A_9zX_H2zK5paemv3Og=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fmirabeau-gin.png) [#### Dry Rose Gin](https://www.maisonmirabeau.com/shop/gin/mirabeau-dry-gin-1x70cl/) ##### Mirabeau From £32 ![2019 White Cliffs Blanc de Blancs from Simpsons](https://media.slman.com/tdcQ7p4tMwMswvKqawTYH8cHloU=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fwhite-cliffs-blanc-de-blancs-2018.png) [#### 2019 White Cliffs Blanc de Blancs](https://simpsonswine.com/products/6-2017-white-cliffs-blanc-de-blancs-single-bottle) ##### Simpsons £45 ![Coastal Dry Vermouth from Vault](https://media.slman.com/WMvMOl0bjpXKrIYXpFSa1374Qww=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fvault-vermouth.png) [#### Coastal Dry Vermouth](https://www.vaultaperitivo.com/product-page/coastal-vermouth) ##### Vault £31 ![Climate Positive Gin from Sapling](https://media.slman.com/WF0egwGFRU0pXUN5Ia2F5Rvmcvo=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F09%2Fsapling-climate-positive-gin-sapling-store.png) [#### Climate Positive Gin](https://saplingspirits.com/products/sapling-climate-positive-gin?) ##### Sapling £35 DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. 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