I'd like to invite Faldage and wow (and maybe CapK, as long as he promises to bring real whisky) to a party. I figure by the time you all get here with your duty free there should be enough to keep us going for a while...

I've also accepted my English roots - tea, no coffee, and a very strong penchant for gin...

I assume none of you commit the heinous crime of putting ice in your malts? I had a terrible experience once where a waiter brought my Scotch with ice, without asking. When I complained he took it away and brought me... not a fresh drink but the same drink with the ice cubes taken out! (shudder of complete non-comprehension and disgust even years after the experience emoticon) Worst of all, (sorry Nick) it was New Jersey water.

On a less alcoholic note, in Taiwan I also acquired the habit of drinking hot water. In theory, this causes evaporation causes cooling. I just find it better than cup after cup of tea in the office. Anyone else ever do this?

One of the best hot summer day drinks - fill a glass with as many ice cubes as you can cram in and pour neat Rose's Lime Cordial into the gaps. The ice is so cold it masks the strength of the cordial, the cordial is so strong you can only sip and the whole thing is refreshingly tart.