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Aqua Amore Blog & News

Introducing… The Switch Promise

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
05
Oct

At Aqua Amore we are passionate about delivering the waters you love.

At present the industry is faced with global supply chain issues. Fortunately, our unique and long standing relationships within the industry have meant that in many of these instances we’re able to source products directly from the source or use a wide range of suppliers, bypassing the issues. However, this is not always possible. Recognising this, we’ve developed our Switch Promise – an initiative designed to ensure continuity of deliveries to our loyal customers, as well as allowing you to try & discover new products, and potentially even new favourites.

So, how does it work?

We have over 20 years of experience in sourcing and tasting waters. That knowledge allows us to make parallels between water brands, and therefore recommendations based on the characteristics you know and love. If your favourite products are out of stock, simply give us a call on 0208 8874 7589 and we’ll recommend an alternative. We’re so confident in our recommendations that if you don’t love our alternative, tell us why and we’ll credit you the cost to spend on your next order!

It really is that simple – you get to keep enjoying water and try something new, all at no risk to you.

T&C’s
Call 020 8874 7589 and quote ‘Switch Promise’ to take part in this initiative. If the product recommended to you isn’t to your liking you must call the same phone number, then state that you have taken part in the Switch Promise and that you are not happy with your alternative. Our team will ask you a few simple questions, then provide a credit voucher to spend on your next order for the value of that product (maximum 1 case). Please note, this is only valid for products recommended under the Switch Promise initiative, not for all standard orders. Please note, with selected brands we will arrange for the remainder of the case to be collected – you will be made aware if this is applicable when a recommendation is made.

Aqua Amore Blog & News

Aqua Amore and Alice Lascelles (Drinks Editor of the Financial Times) discuss why Natural Mineral Waters deserve more attention

Posted on by Michael
05
Aug

The FT Weekend is quite a substantial tome and periodically the HTSI (previously ‘How To Spend It’) supplement offers anyone with a taste of the finer things to delve into the possibilities offered by the high life.

I was therefore delighted to have had forwarded to me an enquiry from Alice Lascelles, the well-respected Drinks Editor for the FT; she was curious about experiencing ‘Naturally Sparkling mineral waters’ for a column. Her questions?

  • Which are the good ones?
  • Why do they taste different?
  • What are the considerations when choosing one?

She suggested an interview, so I gave her a call and she was ready to record the call there and then.

A little taken aback, I had to think on my feet… how does one best approach this topic to answer Alice’s questions and also ensure that the message is conveyed in a meaningful way to her educated audience?

Firstly, it was imperative that the hierarchy of bottled waters were clarified and obligingly, this was dutifully relayed in Alice’s third paragraph (once the fact checkers had checked their facts). As Natural Mineral Waters are the most highly regulated foodstuff in the EU (the UK’s regs are harmonised post-Brexit), a walk-through the qualifying criteria is fundamental. Additionally, since all the waters that Alice would be tasting were Natural Mineral Waters (as opposed to ‘Spring Water’ or ‘Table Water’), it was important to outline this key differentiation to the product.

What makes a natural mineral water distinct? A quick run-down:

  • Mineral composition has to be stable at source i.e. some allowable +/- in mineral content is permissible, but within established parameters
  • Microbiologically pure at source
  • Bottled at source
  • From a single source
  • Label has to indicate the source as the most prominent feature n.b. the spirit of the regulations is to ensure that the customer knows that this is a water of provenance rather than a brand
  • Limited permissible treatments to the water i.e. removal of iron

As a note on the labelling – ‘Spring Water’ can be prefaced to say, ‘Natural Spring Water’ or ‘Organic Spring Water’. ‘Table Water’ doesn’t even have to be labelled as such! Therefore, it can be ‘Artesian Water’ or ‘Volcanic’ etc… is it any surprise that we’re all apathetic when it comes to understanding what it’s all about?

Secondly, I covered the nature of water itself; it’s a solvent and absorbs minerals from the earth. Alice refers to ‘geothermal activity’ in paragraph four – some water routes so deeply underground that it is heated by the earth’s crust; it dissolves limestone which becomes CO2 – hence, the appearance of geothermal, naturally carbonated waters from a spring. Note, not all naturally carbonated waters are geothermal. As they are generally warm/hot (Vichy Catalan emerges from the spring at 59°C, for example), water becomes keener to absorb minerals than at lower temperatures, so this class of waters is generally mineral-rich (a term also regulated to indicated >1,500 milligrams per litre).

Thirdly, Alice allowed me to opine on the significance of the mineral sales in water, which is key in understanding why Natural Mineral Water sources are protected. The fact is that the naturally acquired mineral salts in water are the most bio-available to human physiology of any foodstuff (for example, calcium from water is absorbed more greatly than calcium sourced from milk or cheese). This is significant as minerals affect our well-being – magnesium, sulphates, calcium, bicarbonates and even lithium can be found in water, amongst others! It is for this reason that people want assurances that their source of hydration and nutrition remains consistent – that’s right, people turn to mineral water for reasons of wellness and for their curative properties – and have always done so since time immemorial.

A note on the mineral content – mineral content within water is measured in milligrams per litre (mg/L). This is determined by boiling one litre of water at 180°C until the liquid evaporates and measuring the weight of the remaining mineral salts. The total weight is referred to as ‘Total Dissolved Solids’ or TDS. It can also be referred to as ‘Dry Residue’.

Finally, we touched on the ‘organoleptic’ experience of the waters – why such an unusual word? Well, ‘taste’ is a loaded term as one then looks for properties that a water doesn’t commonly deliver. Of course, Alice picked up on the saltiness of Vichy Catalan in the article and rightly so – there is a good chunk of sodium (not table salt!) within each litre (mineral salts are measured in milligrams). Mineral salts also alter the texture of a water; hence people can be disappointed when looking for flavour. Alice did comment on the variability of the carbonation, from “big crunchy bubbles” to “very fine, pin-prick bubbles”.

So, there’s my four-step guide on how to introduce the esoteric topic of mineral waters to a curious and enthusiastic drinks journalist – I hope that you enjoyed the experience, Alice!

If you too would like to sample the very same variety of waters that Alice did, we’re delighted to offer a special edition selection Discovery Box, found here. This case features 12 bottles of naturally sparkling water from a unique selection, curated specially for the FT. My advice is to chill them first (as this is how most people consume them) and do try share your thoughts with us!

Yours,

Michael

try FT Sparkling Discovery Box
Aqua Amore Blog & News

UK/EU ‘Water Wars’ compromises health and well-being

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
23
Feb

Aqua Amore Ltd is very concerned to hear reports of a developing trade rift that threatens to deny UK residents access to the vital minerals contained within Natural Mineral Water.

As published in The Daily Telegraph on 20 February 2021, it has been reported that the UK has threatened the EU with a ban on European bottled mineral waters in response to the on-going European ban on UK shellfish.

Should such retaliatory action take place, the UK’s citizens would immediately be denied access to an essential source of naturally occurring minerals such as magnesium, sulphates, bicarbonates and chloride. None of these are to be found in significant quantities within Natural Mineral Water originating from the British Isles, due to the absence of volcanic regions.

The EU and UK recognise the impact of minerals on the body and regulate the declaration of minerals on the label, when nominated levels are met or exceeded. This is because minerals in water are the most bio-available of any food source i.e. naturally occurring calcium consumed in water is more readily absorbed efficiently by the body than in, say, milk or cheese.

One of the contradictions of Natural Mineral Water is that the value of the minerals are often under-valued outside of societies that possess mineral-rich water >1500mg/L. As mentioned above, this is possibly the consequence of the absence of volcanic regions in the UK, so that most of the Natural Mineral Waters are of a low mineral content <500mg/L.

This means that such a ban would not fail ”to penalise UK consumers unnecessarily’ as suggested by Patrick O’Flynn in his Daily Telegraph comment piece, quite the contrary. Whilst the sources of domestic waters are indeed located in areas of outstanding natural beauty and have many virtues of their own, one cannot substitute low mineral waters for high mineral waters and receive identical health benefits. Aqua Amore proudly stock a wide range of mineral and spring waters from the British Isles. An example of a mineral rich UK water would be Whitehole Springs water from Somerset, which boasts a very high level of calcium from it’s source within the Mendip Hills – witnessed by the build up of naturally occurring Tufa.

Natural Mineral Waters are the most highly regulated and tested food source within the European Union, which in turn results in very accurate mineral analysis. As outlined in our ‘Magnesium Waters’ blog post the minerals contained within each unique water source, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, bicarbonates, sodium etc, are available in distinctly high volumes and are often essential sources for health and wellness.

Mineral waters such as Vichy Celestins from France have been long used for the treatment of gout, whereas Italy’s Fiuggi water is accredited by the national health service in Italy in the treatment of urinary calculi (kidney stones) and its recurrence – something a UK government ban would prevent from being a natural treatment option for residents.

Aqua Amore therefore call upon both the European Union and UK government to find an urgent resolution to the current ‘water wars’ which threaten the supply of a healthy, natural and vital food stuff to the people of the UK.

Aqua Amore Blog & News

An Aqua Amore journey to Caldes de Malavella

Posted on by Michael
01
Aug

We have been thrilled that so many of you have been invigorated by Zac Efron’s Netflix show Down to Earth with Zac Effron Episode 2 and reached out to us to try many of our unique mineral waters. Please join us on a leisurely ten minute read whilst we guide you through our own visit to the source of a natural mineral water.

There has been a lot of recent interest in Vichy Catalan, the distinctive and beguiling water that emerges from the ancient Roman spa of Caldes de Malavella in Catalunya. This town, just South of Girona, is the source of at least three thermal water sources – one of which is supplied a Roman spa which now remains as a disused relic and is open to visitors. Another is the eponymous Malavella, a natural mineral water in a distinctive pear drop bottle which possesses a remarkably similar mineral content to Vichy Catalan – though is imbued with less CO2 hence, small bubbles.

The centrepiece of this sun drenched town, however, is the Balnearia Vichy Catalan; this is the heart of the source of Vichy Catalan, a bottling plant and a hotel/spa. Christopher and I took the time to visit in May 2018, which was very exciting for us, as Aqua Amore has been a reliable source for many UK (and European!) based afficionados of this evocative brand for over a decade and for us, it has always carried a certain mystique.

In the 19th Century, many people were ‘taking to the waters’ throughout Europe and the most renowned of these spa towns was that of Vichy, in the department of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in the centre of France and in a volcanic regions with an abundance of thermal springs. It is from this region that Aqua Amore source the majestic Natural Mineral Waters (NMW) of Chateldon, Vichy Celestins, Vichy St Yorre and Vals.


According to the myth of the commercial origin, Dr. Modest Furest Roca, studied the beneficial effects of highly mineralised thermal water for the human physiology. Back in his native Catalunya, the volcanic region is around Girona – a region from which we also source Sant Aniol. When he was visiting the region of Caldes de Malavella, he encountered a goat herder, who remarked that his goats would drink from a mineral spring and subsequently be full of energy and bounce around; this story isn’t too dissimilar to the origins of coffee in Ethiopia, with the curious goats chewing on the coffee berry and exhibiting the effects of the caffeine! Dr. Furest was delighted with the analysis of the water and commercialised it by adopting the moniker of ‘Vichy’, in order to establish an evocation and recognition of its provenance. Fast forward to the present day and France is not accepting of this gross usurpation of its cultural heritage and will only allow the product to be sold as ‘VCH’!

We do know for certain, that the water emerges from the spring at a stable 59°C and visibly steams upon emergence into the atmosphere, in addition to possessing a whitened appearance due to the presence of CO2. We could feel the heat from the water and tasted it – the sensation is very unusual as one is essentially consuming warm, bubbly minerals in a liquid form. It is actually very highly mineralised at 3,052 mg/L – and these are minerals that can be tasted and sensed on the palate. It is noticeably carbonated, saline (due to the sodium) and viscous (due to the bicarbonates) and it is best enjoyed very chilled.

The water is captured underground and before it is bottled, it is topped up with CO2 in order to represent the character of water as it emerges from the spring, so that we can enjoy it as those knowing goats did for so many centuries. The operation itself is continuous – Vichy Catalan is the most popular sparkling water in Spain and Portugal and they have expanded to produce juices and carbonated flavours.

It is clear the Vichy Catalan brand is one that captures the heart and essence of Catalunya – with the adoption of the Gaudi pattern seen at Barcelona’s Parc Guell sealing its position as one of Spain’s most distinctive products.

Should you have the opportunity to visit, we would highly recommend a stay to enjoy the hospitality of the spa and dining facilities; in combination with the historic fort of Girona, it makes for a wonderful tour of a less travelled area of Catalunya. We would recommend a driving trip, starting from Perpignan and following the wonderful D914 ‘Costa Brava’ as the road clings to the cliffside and offers a glistening panorama of the Mediterranean. Passing through Cerbere and Portbou, before coming inland through Figueres and into Girona.

Thank you for joining us on this re-visiting of our journey and we welcome your enthusiasm, feedback and questions, as always.

 – Michael Tanousis, co-founder of Aqua Amore.

Aqua Amore Blog & News

Meet: punchy – Liquid Sunshine in a can!

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
04
Apr

Meet: punchy – Liquid Sunshine in a can!

Punchy make delicious soft drinks that help you feel punchy, available in great fridges across the UK and beyond. 

The business was started by 2 school mates in 2018, Paddy & Charlie, who saw an opportunity to create a new age soft drinks business that tapped into the growing demand for no and low options and healthier soft drinks. The guys had no drinks industry experience, but bucket loads of energy, a heavy sprinkle of naivety and a desire to have an impact. 

Taking inspiration from challenger beer brand success stories, punchy is adopting similar tactics to take on the bigger soft drinks players, leveraging clean natural ingredients, its eternal summer brand aesthetic, and a more sustainable, transparent supply chain as its advantages. 

Fast forward to 2024, since launch punchy has sold millions of cans with thousands of customers across the UK, and presence in 11 markets globally. The brand has over 500 5* reviews online and has been featured in the likes of The Times, The Guardian, VICE, Evening Standard, and Daily Mail, as well TV shows like Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch.

Punchy boasts two product ranges, each strategically positioned to thrive in its respective market segment.

Its existing range of premium low calorie sodas are made to sip or mix, created with feel-good-all-natural-ingredients, and a splash of Vitamin D to help you catch the sun all year round. These products have sold millions of cans servicing the likes of British Airways, Hilton Hotels, Wimbledon Tennis Championships, Carrefour, Glastonbury, Ole & Steen and more, providing a brilliant alternative to sugary soft drinks, as well as a non-alc alternative, or a fantastic mixer with premium spirits. 

Not wanting to rest on their laurels, the team have been busy mixing up a revolutionary new range, launching in April 2024, tapping into the growing demand for functional beverages. Their new hydration range features a mix of real fruit, bubbles, electrolytes and minerals as well as Vitamin C & D to offer consumers a replenishing and revitalising caffeine free wellness blend. 

The range takes on existing old school players in the space such as Powerade and Lucozade, moving hydration away from a sports led positioning, into a more everyday, accessible space with a product that champions flavour, genuine efficacy, a clean ingredients list, and more sustainable packaging. The range is perfect as a daily pick me up, or post gym or post night out, lending itself to food service and the off-trade sector. The products are launching with national wholesalers such as Aqua Amore.

The punchy team are extremely ambitious, and are targeting becoming a household name in the coming years, widely enjoyed and trusted. They’re super excited to be partnering with Aqua Amore to help spread their Liquid Sunshine far and wide. Cheers!

Aqua Amore Blog & News

Celebrate with Bubbles: Sparkling Cocktail Creations with Avalis Glacier Water

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
28
Nov

Celebrate with Bubbles: Sparkling Cocktail Creations with Avalis Glacier Water

As we toast to Aqua Amore’s 16th birthday this November, what better way to celebrate than with a splash of effervescence from our latest addition, Avalis Glacier Water? In partnership with Avalis, we’re excited to present a series of delectable sparkling cocktail recipes, perfect for adding a touch of festivity to your gatherings.

Whether you’re a fan of mocktails or cocktails, these eight recipes are sure to bring a fizzy flair to your celebrations. Let’s dive into the sparkling world of Avalis and raise our glasses to another year of exceptional hydration and taste.

Mocktails

The Avalis Raspberry Rumble
Looking for a refreshing mocktail that you can enjoy all year round? Look no further than The Avalis Raspberry Rumble. A tantalising blend of tangy lime, sweet raspberry, and the fizzy punch of Avalis Sparkling Water. Garnish with fresh raspberries for a delightful finish.

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 50ml Raspberry juice
• 2 Fresh Basil Leaves
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
• Fresh Raspberries to Garnish

The Avalis Berry Burst
This refreshing and flavorful mocktail is very easy to make. With only a few ingredients, this can made for one or a crowd. A sure to be a hit at any holiday party. 

Ingredients: ​
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 40ml Cranberry Juice
• 20ml Orange Juice
• Half Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
• 10ml Orgeat Syrup
• Fresh Berries to Garnish

The Avalis Melon Mist  

Savour the refreshing taste of The Avalis Melon Mist, a blend of juicy watermelon and freshly squeezed lime juice, enhanced with a dash of watermelon syrup and topped off with the fizzy goodness of Avalis Sparkling Water.

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• Blended cup of Watermelon
• 15ml Watermelon Syrup
• Half Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
• Mint Leaves
• Lime Wedge/Watermelon Slice to Garnish

The Avalis Zingy Zest 

Hosting a festive party this year? Wow your guests with this delicious and easy-to-make mocktail. With the perfect balance of flavours, this drink is full of refreshing zing. Just add ice, top it off with Avalis Sparkling Water, and let the celebration begin!

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 40ml Non-Alcoholic Tequila
• Half Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
• 10ml Agave Syrup
• Lime Wedge to Garnish


Cocktails

 

The Avalis Spiced Apple Martini 

Introducing the delicious spiced apple martini. Made with apple juice, apple liqueur, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a hint of sloe gin. Top it off with Avalis Sparkling Water for some fizzy fun. Don’t forget to garnish with two cinnamon sticks for an extra touch of warmth.

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 30ml Apple Juice
• 25ml Apple Liqueur
• 10ml Maple Syrup
• 15ml Sloe Gin / Non-Alcoholic Sloe Gin
• Cinnamon Sticks to Garnish

 

The Avalis Blooming Rose Mojito

A unique twist on the classic Mojito. The Avalis Blooming Rose Mojito is the perfect blend of flavours, topped off with a splash of Avalis Sparkling Water for that extra fizz.

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 35ml Gold Rum / Non-Alcoholic Gold Rum
• 20ml Rose syrup
• Lime Wedges and Mint Leaves
• Rose petals to Garnish

The Avalis Berry Breeze 

Ready to elevate your cocktail game? The berry crush cocktail is a game changer. You won’t be able to resist its deliciousness. Give it a sip, and get ready for a flavour explosion.

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 40ml Vodka / Non-Alcoholic Vodka
• 15ml Creme De Cassis
• Juice of 1 Orange
• 5 Blackberries
• 2 tbsp Pomegranate Seeds to Garnish

The Avalis Pink Gin Zing
Ready to take your tastebuds on a journey? This gin cocktail is here to make waves. The Avalis Sparkling Water enhances the experience, creating a light and invigorating texture.

 

Ingredients:
• Avalis Sparkling Water
• 35ml Gin / Non-Alcoholic Gin
• Fresh Lime juice
• 10ml Sugar Syrup
• Lime Wheels to Garnish 


 

Mix up one of these bubbly concoctions at your next gathering. And be sure to stock up on Avalis Glacier Water to keep the festivities flowing. Available in both still and sparkling varieties, it will bring a touch of sophistication and refreshment to all of your holiday entertaining.

Shop here 

Aqua Amore Blog & News

A CERTIFIED WATER SOMMELIER’S REVIEW OF SOUTH DOWNS NATURAL MINERAL WATER

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
01
Nov

As a certified water sommelier and co-founder of Aqua Amore, I’m delighted to spotlight South Downs Natural Mineral Water – a brand we proudly offer to homes and businesses across London. In this blog, I’ll share my insights into what makes South Downs a special British water, from its mineral composition to its journey from source to your glass.

Natural Mineral Water is the highest standard for bottled water. To gain this status, the water must be bottled directly at a protected source with the source name clearly labelled. The mineral content must also remain consistent and regularly tested. This sets it apart from generic spring or purified waters that have less strict regulations and recognition.

The 90mg/L of calcium in South Downs Water delivers over 10% of your recommended daily calcium in one litre consumed. Minerals from Natural Mineral Water are the most bioavailable of any other food source, making them the easiest for our systems to absorb and use. It’s a natural and efficient way to boost your daily mineral intake.

Sourced from an independent artesian spring at the foot of the iconic South Downs National Park, South Downs is enriched with minerals from filtering through the chalky white limestone geology. With a pH of 7.5 and low sodium levels, it has a beautifully balanced mineral composition and light, refreshing mouthfeel.

Not only does South Downs meet the highest Natural Mineral Water standards, it also happens to be the closest water source to our warehouse in London. This allows us to reduce miles travelled and the overall environmental impact of bringing South Downs water to our customers.

We proudly offer it in sustainable packaging, including glass bottles made with recycled content and aluminum cans using 62% recycled materials.

As a specialist bottled water distributor for over 16 years, it’s a joy to provide our customers with this unique British Natural Mineral Water straight from the protected South Downs artisan spring. The light mouthfeel and sustainable local sourcing make it a perfect everyday drinking water. 

Natural Mineral Water is the highest standard for bottled water. To gain this status, the water must be bottled directly at a protected source with the source name clearly labelled. The mineral content must also remain consistent and regularly tested. This sets it apart from generic spring or purified waters that have less strict regulations and recognition.

The 90mg/L of calcium in South Downs Water delivers over 10% of your recommended daily calcium in one litre consumed. Minerals from Natural Mineral Water are the most bioavailable of any other food source, making them the easiest for our systems to absorb and use. It’s a natural and efficient way to boost your daily mineral intake.

Sourced from an independent artesian spring at the foot of the iconic South Downs National Park, South Downs is enriched with minerals from filtering through the chalky white limestone geology. With a pH of 7.5 and low sodium levels, it has a beautifully balanced mineral composition and light, refreshing mouthfeel.

Not only does South Downs meet the highest Natural Mineral Water standards, it also happens to be the closest water source to our warehouse in London. This allows us to reduce miles travelled and the overall environmental impact of bringing South Downs water to our customers.

We proudly offer it in sustainable packaging, including glass bottles made with recycled content and aluminum cans using 62% recycled materials.

As a specialist bottled water distributor for over 16 years, it’s a joy to provide our customers with this unique British Natural Mineral Water straight from the protected South Downs artisan spring. The light mouthfeel and sustainable local sourcing make it a perfect everyday drinking water. 

Aqua Amore Blog & News

The Hallstein Octagon: A Journey to Excellence in Hydration

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
21
Aug

As specialist distibutors of  mineral waters for over fifteen years, we continually seek to discover and deliver the finest waters to quench your thirst and nourish your body. In our pursuit of excellence, we partnered with Hallstein Natural Mineral Water and were proud to visit the factory in March 2023.

 


Hallstein: Discovery of ‘the’ source

In 1999, the Muhr family gathered around their dinner table, questioning, “Is the water we’re drinking high quality?” and “What does “high quality” drinking water actually mean?”

The Muhr Family – exploring the source of Hallstein Water

In their relentless pursuit of water perfection, the Muhr family’s journey led them to discover Hallstein Water. Working alongside scientists and water experts, they formulated eight core parameters for Hallstein Water quality. These criteria set the foundation for what is now known as the Hallstein Octagon.

High Natural Alkalinity
Hallstein Water boasts a pH of 8.3, making it naturally alkaline. This essential quality helps to restore the body’s pH balance, counteracting the acidic elements we encounter daily. An ideal pH level for drinking water is between 8 and 9.5.

Low Sodium Levels
Hallstein Water is remarkably low in sodium, with just 0.15 mg/l. The Muhr family recognised the significance of sodium levels in the water, as they can influence pH. The low sodium content makes it a safe and healthy choice for all, including infants and adults striving to avoid hypertension.

High in Dissolved Oxygen
10 mg/l or higher levels of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) adds a crisp fresh taste to water. Hallstein water has a DO level of 10.8 mg/l. Unlike municipal water supplies that contain lower DO levels to preserve water pipes.

Low Nitrate Levels
The UK drinking water standard requires the nitrate concentration to be less than 50 mg/l, while the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require the nitrate concentration to be less than 10 mg/l. Hallstein Water sets an exemplary standard by keeping its nitrate level at 1.83 mg/l.

Low Total Organic Carbon (TOC)
At just 0.09 mg/l, Hallstein Water has an impressively low TOC score. Organic carbon levels in drinking water are akin to “bacteria food,” indicating that higher levels pose an increased risk of bacterial formation. By keeping TOC levels to a minimum, Hallstein Water ensures that every sip remains pristine and free from potential contamination.

Moderate Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Natural Mineral Waters need to be microbiologically pure at source, with a consistent presence of minerals in the stated volumes. Depending on its unique mineral composition, water can treat your taste buds to a myriad of flavours – from subtle sweetness to a touch of bitterness and even a hint of pleasant saltiness or a gentle metallic note. With 84 mg/l TDS Hallstein Water has a lightly balanced and smooth taste.

Calcium and Magnesium Ratio
Hallstein Water embraces the importance of balanced mineral content, providing the body with the ideal 2:1 ratio of Calcium to Magnesium. This harmonious ratio ensures optimal absorption, benefiting overall well-being.

Low Exit Temperature
Deep wells with low exit temperatures produce cleaner water. Hallstein Water has an exit temperature of just 5.6°C (41°F), signifying its pristine origins and the protection it receives from environmental contaminants from above.

Now that you’ve delved into the remarkable world of the Hallstein Octagon, it’s time to experience the excellence firsthand. Hallstein Natural Mineral Water is available in 750ml glass bottles. Visit our page to purchase a case for yourself, also available on subscription.

At Aqua Amore, we take pride in delivering the water you love – water that matters.

Aqua Amore Blog & News

Icelandic Glacial Water – “The Purest Tasting Water On Earth”

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
21
Jul

Recognised by leading Chefs and Sommeliers from among the world’s finest hotels and restaurants, and awarded the Superior Taste Award 2022, by the International Taste & Quality Institute, Icelandic Glacial is available for purchase through our trusted partnership with Aqua Amore. 

A water like no other, it’s filtered slowly for 5,000 years through layers of lava rock, Icelandic Glacial possesses a highly desirable and uncommonly high pH of 8.4, making it naturally alkaline.  The high pH in Icelandic Glacial may:

  • help to offset the low pH acids found in many foods to help the body maintain a healthy pH balance
  • increase hydration
  • improve bone health support
  • reduce the risk of kidney stones

We are proud to partner with Icelandic Glacial, a brand that shares our commitment to quality, sustainability, and delivering exceptional water experiences. With its unique filtration process through ancient lava rock and a naturally high alkaline pH level, Icelandic Glacial offers a truly extraordinary drinking experience. At Aqua Amore, we believe in providing our customers with the finest waters from around the world, and our partnership with Icelandic Glacial allows us to continue that mission. We are thrilled to have offered this premium water to our valued customers for over fifteen years, elevating their hydration journey to new heights.
  • Christopher Tanousis, Co-Founder of Aqua Amore

Sustainably Sourced

Setting Icelandic Glacial apart from other bottled premium waters is its source.  Sourced from the legendary Ölfus Spring in Iceland, one of the world’s most pristine ecosystems. It possesses a naturally low mineral content (TDS of 62 ppm) that does not crowd the palate with heavy metals, minerals or silica. A water so pure, nothing is added or taken away.  

At Icelandic Glacial, we believe in sharing our premium water with the world and doing so with environmentally sound practices. Iceland’s abundant rainfall and snowmelt is naturally filtered through ancient lava rock and bottled directly at the Ölfus Spring as a result Icelandic Glacial water is exceptional in terms of quality, taste and purity.  

Icelandic Glacial features a highly desirable, uniquely elevated, and naturally occurring high alkaline pH level. The uncommonly high pH level of 8.4 is due to the natural filtration system of ancient lava rock, and never from additives such as sodium bicarbonate, magnesium sulfate, or calcium chloride. 

The Legendary Ölfus Spring is one of the world’s largest natural springs, with over 900,000 cubic meters of water overflowing into the ocean every day.

The First CarbonNeutral Certified Bottled Water

Since Icelandic Glacial’s inception, sustainability has been in our DNA. We are proud to say we were the world’s first bottled water to be certified as CarbonNeutral® for both product and operation. Icelandic Glacial has worked with The CarbonNeutral Company, a leading carbon emissions consultant, since 2007, and has been certified CarbonNeutral for both product and operation – an unprecedented move in the beverage industry. 

Icelandic Glacial made a commitment to reach a target of net-zero Greenhouse Gas emissions, and continuously carry that out through a combination of internal reductions, environmental instruments and investments in renewable energy and reforestation projects around the world.

Bottling less than 0.1% of the overflow to the sea, The Ölfus Spring has been declared certifiably sustainable by Zenith International.  

We take immense pride in running a completely sustainable operation fueled entirely by geothermal and hydroelectric power. At 7,688 sq. ft., our world-class facility is one of the world’s greenest and cleanest.

Shielded by an impenetrable layer of lava rock and surrounded by a 128,000 acre exclusion zone, the Spring is constantly replenished by a gradual filtration of rainfall and snowmelt over uninhabited and untouched lava fields.

In a steadfast commitment to reach a target of net-zero Greenhouse Gas emissions, we also invest in verified renewable energy, forestry and resource conservation projects around the world. And we go even further, taking steps to use 100% recyclable BPAfree, high grade rPET bottle, labels, caps and cardboard packaging.

Icelandic Glacial natural spring water is available to buy from Aqua Amore in:

• Still water sizes 330ml, 500ml, 750ml, 1L, 1.5L in plastic

• Sparkling water size 750ml in glass

Shop now for an exclusive 15% off for customers of Aqua Amore throughout July 2023.

Aqua Amore Blog & News

Notice of withdrawal of recognition for natural mineral water

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
19
Nov

As a consequence, all natural mineral waters which obtained their recognition in or by an

EU member state will no longer be authorised for import into England as natural mineral

waters, unless they are recognised as such by a responsible authority of the United Kingdom

with the exception of Northern Ireland.

– The Rt Hon George Eustice MP

Automatic recognition of established natural mineral water from the EEA (EU, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein) will expire on 7 January 2022. As such, any natural mineral waters which obtained recognition via the EU must apply for recognition to sell natural mineral water in Great Britain before the above date.

On 2 July 2021, as anticipated by Aqua Amore in our February blog post, The Rt Hon George Eustice MP (Secretary of State for Environment) wrote to Sandra Gallina (here), Dóra S Gunnarsdóttir (here) and Ingunn Midttun Godal (here) to inform them of the intention to withdraw recognition for natural mineral waters and requirement for re-recognition, following BREXIT.

Letter from The Rt Hon George Eustice MP to EEA representatives

As proud stockists of many EEA recognised mineral waters for over a decade, Aqua Amore are concerned by the legislation change which will inevitably lead to the potential removal of many mineral waters which are an essential source of naturally occurring minerals such as magnesium, sulphates, bicarbonates and chloride to our customers, minerals which are only naturally available in high mineral waters sourced from Europe. The complex administration required for re-recognition would, unfortunately, act as a deterrant to smaller niche producers who rely on indirect import of their waters to the GB marketplace and therefore lead to the potential unavailability of products from the start of 2022. Other mineral water producers have stated their intention to remove themselves from the GB market. However, on a more positive note, we have successfully petitioned over fifteen producers to submit their documents prior to the deadline (at time of writing) and continue to work with many others to provide the correct guidance documents and outline administrative requirements, so we remain hopeful that Aqua Amore customers will continue to have high-TDS and naturally carbonated options.

The team at Aqua Amore remain dedicated to bringing the widest variety of mineral waters to the GB market for our customers and to offering a platform and shop window for many brands. To this end, we continue to work alongside DEFRA and in communicating with both the UK Government and our producer partners to encourage recognition (and potential reform within the framework for recognition) and find solutions for the continued availability of high TDS mineral waters to the GB market.

Uncategorised

LTA Registered Venue Special Offer – Highland Spring

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis

Aqua Amore are delighted to have partnered with Highland Spring and The Lawn Tennis Association to supply LTA Member Clubs with Highland Spring Water with up to a 50% discount plus free delivery (MOQs apply).

Please complete the below form and an Aqua Amore sales representative will be in contact.

LTA Registered Venue Contact Form

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Aqua Amore Blog & News

Speyside Glenlivet – The end of an era. Deeside – The start of a new era.

Posted on by Christopher Tanousis
15
Jul

Late in 2020, Highland Spring confirmed their intention to close the Braes of Glenlivet site in Moray and therefore cease the bottling of the Speyside Glenlivet spring water owing to the “increasingly competitive market” for glass bottled natural source waters.

The location of the springs – Slochd and Clash – is in the Crown estate of Glenlivet, sitting in the high land to the north east of the Cairngorms and contains the lower reachs of the Avon and its famous tributary the Livet, plus the world renowned river Spey. The unique mineral content of Speyside Glenlivet is geologically attibuted to a five hundred million year rock formation called the Braes of Glenlivet, after which the water bottling site is named.

Boasting a low TDS of just 58mg/litre, Speyside Glenlivet has been popular with Aqua Amore customers since 2011 and news of the impending ceasing led to many requests for a similar water, suitable as a replacement.

Deeside – a new dawn?

Deeside Mineral Water, newly listed at Aqua Amore

Flowing naturally under it’s own pressure from an ancient spring within the Cairngorms National Park, close to Balmoral Castle, and 600 feet above sea level, Deeside mineral water has a remarkably similar mineral content to the departing Speyside Glenlivet.

TYPICAL ANALYSIS MG/LSpeyside GlenlivetDeeside
SODIUM46
BICARBONATE4526
SULPHATE46
NITRATE1<3


CALCIUM		124
MAGNESIUM23
POTASSIUM12
CHLORIDE59
DRY RESIDUE5860
PH (AT SOURCE)7.76.1

As with many historic mineral water sources, Deeside has a rich heritage – from the Knights Templar sampling the water during their travels through the Deeside valley around 1245 to visits from historical figures such as Lord Byron, Sir Walter Scott and Queen Victoria (owing to its close proximity to Balmoral Castle).

Deeside mineral water is available in 750ml and 250ml glass bottles as well as 2L plastic bottles.

The team at Aqua Amore are very proud to list Deeside mineral water to our portfolio of interesting and microbiologically unique waters – please click here to view Deeside Water online.

Buy Deeside Water
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