The Three Drinkers returns for third series

Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin have announced a third series of their Amazon Prime drinks travel show, The Three Drinkers in Cognac.

The Three Drinkers in Cognac follows Smith and Nicklin as they embark on a journey around the French region of Cognac, while learning about the traditional French spirit, as well as other local products.

“We like to showcase drinks through a lifestyle lens, in a relaxed, unintimidating setting,” explained Nicklin, who also acts as co-producer of the show.

Smith added: “One of the most important aspects of this series is to highlight that Cognac doesn’t belong at the back of your grandparent’s cupboard and we’ll be exploring a number of simple serves and cocktails that the audience can create from the comfort of their homes or be inspired to order the next time they’re at a cocktail bar.”

The two-hour series is made up of four 30-minute episodes in which the pair discover the art of Cognac with houses such as Rémy Martin and Courvoisier, alongside Cognac and bitter orange liqueur brand Grand Marnier.

Throughout the series, The Three Drinkers meet with Grand Marnier’s master blender, Patrick Leger, who shares an insight into the origins and production of the brand.

Leger commented: “The Three Drinkers in Cognac series explores the origins, history, and evolution of Grand Marnier. From the years of dedication behind our audacious recipe; to a discovery of the unique flavour combinations that can lead to more elevated cocktail experiences – we’re excited to see the magic behind Grand Marnier come to life in this grand encounter.”

Throughout the series, Smith and Nicklin also discover unique dishes from the region, and try their hands at various crafts, including chocolate-crafting, shoemaking, and beekeeping.

They also visit local gin distillery Audemus to take a deep dive into Highballs and cocktails for different occasions, while also exploring the world of mixers, sodas and tonics with Franklin & Sons, which sponsors the series.

James Stimson, senior brand manager at Franklin & Sons, said: “Aidy and Helena are fantastic ambassadors of the Franklin & Sons range, and we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with them.

“Viewers are sure to be inspired by the variety of highball combinations showcased, including remarkable pairings of our range with Umami Gin and Quinoa Vodka. Enjoy viewing this series and watch this space for more exciting partnerships with Aidy and Helena going forward.”

The ‘third’ drinkers

For this series, Smith and Nicklin have enlisted the help of ‘third drinkers’, Virgin Radio presenter Eddy Temple-Morris, and travel presenter, journalist and influencer Eulanda Shead-Osagiede.

In the series, Smith and Nicklin are tasked with inspiring spirits-sceptic Temple-Morris into falling in love with the liquid of the Cognac region, while Shead-Osagiede seeks out some of the hidden lifestyle gems of the region, setting the duo tasks along the way.

The Three Drinkers in Cognac will launch in mid-May on Amazon Prime in 120 countries and territories, and will be available to watch in nine languages.

The first Three Drinkers series, The Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky, aired on Amazon Prime in 2019 and is still streaming in more than 170 countries. It is available to view in 39 languages.

The Three Drinkers in Ireland was released in 2022, and won the Cultural Contribution to the Spirits Industry award at The Spirits Business Awards 2022.

In March, The Three Drinkers collaborated with Sliabh Liag Distillers to produce a limited edition Irish whiskey.