Krampus invades Little Stonegate to release Villains rum.

Little Stonegate's newest outlet, Villains Rum, has launched a Krampus-themed rum as part of its continued build-up for the festival period.

Rum traders moved to the former Asgard site, trading at the Shambles Market for six years prior to their move.

Speaking at the newly opened store, shop manager Marie Harris said: “We opened Villans Rum of York about two weeks ago, but we’ve been building our brand in York for almost six years, starting with Fairytale Gin.”

“We started Villains Rum itself at Shambles Market about a year ago and today we are launching our seasonal Krampus Rum, a spiced caramel biscuit rum.

Krampus outside Villains Ram (Image: Harry Booth)

“As the Krampus gang outside the store terrorizes the streets, people come inside to try the Krampus rum, which is inspired by other York villains like Eric Bloodaxe and Guy Fawkes. You can.

“So come and have a drink of rum. We don't like good deeds. So come with your worst deeds.”

With the release of the new rum, the first 100 mini bottles will be given away. “Come try the rum and stay the villain,” Marie added.

Of her experience so far at Little Stonegate, she said: “It's been absolutely fantastic. We already had a lot of local people shopping with us at Shambles Market, so we're going to welcome them into a more immersive experience. I'm really glad I was able to do that.”

Inside Villain's Lamb (Image: Harry Booth)

Inside, Villains Rum collaborates with Deathly Dark Tours, which offers tours and tastings on Saturdays and Sundays. “You can walk around the store and learn about the dark villains that inspired us,” Marie added.

With a selection of around 20 unique rums, we have established ourselves as one of the city's largest independent rum producers. But why rum?

“Rum is interesting because it’s really versatile. It has a sugar cane base and natural sweetness,” Marie said.

“Works very well with a variety of mixers.

“We have a white rum called Yorkshire Witch with pink grapefruit, as well as cherry rums and smoky dark rums.

“It's very versatile when it comes to flavoring, and you can drink it straight. Our room is very smooth, so you can drink it straight.”