Free membership FAQs

I used to be able to log in with my password, but now I have to log in with a single-use pass key sent to my email each time.

We have updated our login process to use a single-use pass key rather than a password. This is a more secure way for you to log in than a static user-generated password. As it's becoming more popular, you might already experience a similar type of login on other websites.

We use a technique called a 'single-use passkey', which is sent to your email address when you log in. This means your unique code is randomly generated only when your login attempt is initiated and is known only by you. Using a single-use passkey means the unique code is short-lived, you are alerted to it via email, and it is more secure than a password you need to remember.

Can I add my own personal notes?

Using the "personalise" button below every cocktail and brand (beers, wines, and spirits), Premium members can add notes to cocktails and brands which are only viewable to them whenever they return to that cocktail or brand.

Anyone who made such a personal note before the introduction of Premium (on 27 August 2024) will still be able to read their existing notes but will not be able to make new notes. Members who have not joined Premium can still leave public comments, and such comments can be useful for other members of the community, so we are keen to encourage their use. However, private notes can only be seen by, and so are only of use to, individual members; hence, private notes are one of the many benefits we reserve for Premium members.

What functionality used to be available in Cocktail Finder that is now not available without Premium membership?

The launch of Premium was chiefly about introducing new functionality and technology, not taking it away. With it came a lot of new search criteria in Cocktail Finder with very few revoked for non-Premium users.

Existing search functionality still freely available to all:
- Cocktail name or keyword
- Selected ingredients
- Created by
- Diffords Guide rating
- Difford's Guide or Community recipes
- Edition of our books

NEW search functionality freely available to all:
- Alcohol-free recipes

NEW search functionality introduced and exclusive to Premium members:
- Select cabinet
- Community rating
- Your rating
- Wish list
- With personal notes
- Must try
- Tried & liked
- Tried & disliked
- Hall of Fame
- Alcohol by volume
- Allergens
- Number of ingredients

Existing search functionality that's now exclusive to Premium members:
- Favourites
- Classic/Vintage
- Contemporary Classic
- Sweetness
- Strength
- Calories
- Styles
- Flavours
- Time of day
- Occasion or season
- Glass type