A COCKTAIL festival in Hampshire has been kicked off with a launch party at one of the county’s best known hotels.

Winchester first ever cocktail week was launched with a glitzy celebration at Winchester’s Hotel du Vin.

The party saw guests from across the city gather to celebrate the exciting week of cocktails and events, taking place February 1 to February 7 next year.

It was a sparkling evening consisting of cocktail tables managed by local businesses, jazz and of course, lots of delicious drinks.

Cabinet Rooms, founded by two local cocktail enthusiasts – Gary Whiter and Marcus Roe – teamed up with the Winchester Business Improvement District to produce the event.

Cocktail week will be an eclectic mix of cocktail masterclasses and parties.

There will also be special events and of course, the chance to sample some of Winchester’s best cocktails.

A range of bars, restaurants and cafes across the city have all pledged to take part in the festival.

There will also be the chance to win prizes throughout the week.

Winchester’s bartenders can also compete to win the inaugural Winchester Cup for the best cocktail.

Wristband holders will be invited to book a place at a celebration of cocktails through the ages.

That exclusive event will be the Grand Finale celebration of the week and will be held at Winchester’s Guildhall – the icing on the cake of cocktail week.