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The Gin To My Tonic Club January (Ginuary) 2021

Meet-the-Makers Virtually on Saturday 30th January 6.00pm-8.30pm

Virtual Gin Festival

Happy Ginuary! We are back! We absolutely love these events, connecting with all of you and of course enjoying fabulous gin, but they also offer a touch of escapism which I’m sure you’ll agree is most welcome right now. Whilst we can’t offer you tropical beaches or ski slopes, we can offer you five fabulous gin creations and an exciting programme of gin discovery, and that’s exactly what we have in store with our first virtual festival of 2021. It’s quite the diverse line-up and the full programme can be found by scrolling.

We can also now reveal that from next month not only will you be able to purchase access to a single virtual festival, but you will also be able to take advantage of a monthly and bi-monthly subscription options (with added savings). We recognise that a large number of you have done these events with us numerous times and we want to make it easier for you to stay up to date. This will be now be known as The Gin To My Tonic Club.

But the exciting news does not stop there, as we’ll be upgrading our tasting samples moving forward as well, meaning from February all miniatures will be in official bottles, with the odd ‘Ginny surprise’ thrown in for good measure. This, we hope, will enhance the experience for you at home, whilst also offering additional support to the distilleries featured during the pandemic and beyond.

Love Em & Paul (Co-Founders, Best Friends & Fellow Gin Enthusiasts)

6.00pm – 6.30pm: Botanicals of the Far North with Rock Rose Gin

The award-winning Dunnet Bay Distillery are the creators of Rock Rose Gin. Founded by Husband and Wife team Martin and Claire Murray, the distillery is located in the beautiful village of Dunnet on the iconic North Coast.

Claire is nicknamed ‘The Common Sense’ and is responsible for all the frilly and fancy ideas! With a love of all things gin and an honours degree in hospitality and tourism, she has a creative but practical approach to overseeing all the fun sides of the distillery. Martin is ‘The Brains’ and is responsible for the crazy ideas. Obsessed with improving all areas of performance, he is the mastermind behind all things technical and innovative, which makes perfect sense when you realise Martin is a qualified chartered process engineer.

The Rhodiola Rosea or Rock Rose is famed for its rarity and health benefits and was once sought after by the Vikings for its strength and vitality, it is also a key botanical in Dunnet Bay Distillery’s Signature Rock Rose Gin. Honouring the location was important so the gin features no less then 5 local botanicals. There are 18 in total including Italian and Bulgarian juniper, rhodiola rosea, sea buckthorn, rowan berries, blueberries, verbena, cardamom, coriander, liquorice and cinnamon. The gin is infused using the vapour infusion method, meaning the botanicals are placed in a steam basket in the neck of the still.

Innovation is the name of the game at Dunnet Bay Distillery, not only do they make gin, but they have also created Holy Grass Vodka, another celebration of local provenance. The spirit is infused with Highland apple juice to complement the sweetness of the Holy Grass (you may be more familiar with this being known as Bison Grass). They have also launched their Rock Rose Gin refill pouches, which means you can refill your existing bottle at home whilst being environmentally conscious. Genius!

The Perfect Serve

Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and a garnish of Orange & Rosemary.

Rock Rose Gin

Quick Fire Questions…

What Do You Love About Distilling?

I love the discovery of distillation. You can forage and distil some quite incredible flavours and I love the telling the story of these botanicals. Especially when it is a story that ties back to the Highlands of Scotland.  For example rowan berries are said to ward off evil spirits! – Martin Murray

Do You Have Any Exciting Plans?

We’ve bought an old mill and want to build our future in a 200 year old building.   It’s an unbelievable old building and it will be our greatest achievement if we can save it and breathe new life into it – Martin Murray

 

6.30pm – 7.00pm: From Gin in a Jar to Craft Distillery with Dr Eamers 

Dr Eamers’ was founded by Jordan Lunn and was inspired by a rich history of distilling. A third-generation distiller, Jordan owns and operates the West Midlands Distillery in the heart of the Black Country. Dr Eamers’ is the distilleries signature creation.

Jordan had been making gin for many years and had mainly been experimenting with gin as a hobby and for his own enjoyment. As the gin boom took hold, friends and family were increasingly asking Jordan to make more and more gin, and from this point the hobby started to grow arms and legs. Friends and family turned to friends and work colleagues, and orders began to grow as word of Jordan’s distilling efforts reached more and more people. As a result, Jordan took the decision to officially launch the business in 2017, calling it Dr Eamers’, a play on his childhood nickname ‘Dreamer’.

Jordan a lover of science, maths and art and had always been creative from an early age, but with an edge of practicality running alongside his creator flair. In his own words Jordan describes distilling as the perfect blend of these three disciplines… the holy trinity of successful distillation and a source of inspiration.

Jordan creates a “one shot” or “single shot” distilled gin, meaning the only thing added to the distillate after distillation is Spring Water (you are permitted to add Sugar and Neutral Spirit also under London Dry Gin rules). Their process, along with a slow distillation, creates a superior smooth, soft and flavourful Gin. The highlight botanicals in the blend are lemon thyme, red grapefruit, white lavender and tellicherry pepper. It is a deliciously citrus forward and herbaceous Gin with a long warm finish.

The opening of the Dr Eamers’ Distillery Bar has been a huge achievement this year, despite the current climate, and also includes one of their fully working 100L pot stills situated right in the middle of the bar making for a stunning feature.

The future looks bright once normal life resumes, they have recently relocated to a new premises that will cater for visitors, tours, experiences and a new tap room which will open on weekends to showcase their range of spirits. Plus, their new rum brand, B-Rum is set to launch by summer hailing another exciting development for Dr Eamers’.

The Perfect Serve

Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and a garnish of Lemon and Thyme.

Dr Eamers' Dry Gin

Quick Fire Questions…

What Are Your Unique Selling Points In 3 Words?

Premium without price – Jordan Lunn, Dr Eamers’ Emporium 

Where Would You like To See The Gin Industry In 5 Years Time?

I’d like to see a duty relief for small distilleries just as small breweries have help so they can compete with the larger brands that have huge scales of economy. I think a lot of people ask themselves why they should pay £30+ for a bottle of Gin from a small craft distillery vs £15 form the supermarket, and I think this would help level the playing field and ultimately benefit the end customer – Jordann Lunn, Dr Eamers’ Emporium 

Tell Us Something We Might Not Know…

I often liken my method of recipe development to the Scoville scale for the heat of a chilli. This refers to how much water vs 1 part chilli has to be used so that the heat is no longer discernible. I use a similar technique with botanicals to give me a rough scale, as 1g of Cinnamon is not equal to 1g of Lemon which is not equal to 1g Lavender etc. We dilute the ingredient in alcohol until the flavour is no longer discernible, this then gives us a scale. What this does is allow rapid recipe development using the maths to get us close, the rest is Art – Jordann Lunn, Dr Eamers’ Emporium 

 

7.00pm – 7.30pm: The Spirit of Adventure with Atlas Gin

Embracing the spirit of adventure, the Atlas Gin range fuses craftmanship and bold, but balanced, botanicals to create a range of gins with a difference.

The Atlas Gin story begins in Edinburgh where Founder, Paul, first discovered his passion for gin. Fascinated by flavours and how adding a mixer could add life and depth to the botanicals within good gin, he set out on his own gin journey. Upon arriving back home in Lincolnshire he was determined to create a range of gins that went beyond some of the more traditionally available blends, and so he began drawing inspiration from traditional tastes and flavours from around the world.

Atlas Chai Gin is inspired by traditional Masala Chai, a tea which is a part of everyday life in India. The recipes vary from region to region; however, Paul based this blend on the core ingredients that are traditionally used. The range of botanicals include juniper berries, cinnamon, green cardamom, cloves, pimento berries, ginger, nutmeg, cane sugar and assam black tea. Aromas of juniper, cinnamon and green cardamom fill the nose whilst the palate is warming and spicy, but well balanced so that the heat does not overpower the gin or taste buds.

The other unique blends in their range include Love Cake Gin, inspired by the ancient legend of a woman who created a special cake to try to win the heart of a handsome prince. A sweet fragrant creation with a subtle hint of citrus. And Shichimi Gin which is inspired by a traditional Japanese seven-spice blend, which has been at the heart of many Japanese dishes since around the 17thcentury. A gin with an umami kick and subtle warmth that is carefully balanced with the addition of green tea.

The Perfect Serve

Fever-Tree Blood Orange Soda (provided) or Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and a Garnish of Orange and Ginger

Atlas Chai Gin

Quick Fire Questions…

What Do You Love About Distilling?

We love the process of researching and developing new and unique recipes for our gins. Creating premium gins that are unlike any other flavoured gins on the market gives us a sense of excitement. – Paul Martin, Atlas Gin

What Has Been Your Biggest Challenge?

The biggest challenge we’ve faced was developing the flavours that we felt were perfect. It took multiple attempts to get thing right and find the perfect balance in each gin. – Paul Martin, Atlas Gin

What’s The Best Piece of Advice You’ve Received?

Stay true to your ideas and concepts, there is a gap that needs filling and Atlas are pioneers, so do not be afraid to turn back on paths untrodden and forge new roads. – Paul Martin, Atlas Gin

7.30pm – 8.00pm: Bottled Magic from the Highlands with Highland Liquor Company

A true craft distilling operation ‘The Highland Liquor Company’ is located in Ullapool within the North West Highlands of Scotland. In Spring 2019 they released their flagship gin, Seven Crofts, which was then followed by their Fisherman’s Strength in October 2020.

The village of Ullapool has a reputation as a location for fine food and drink. The Founders Helen Chalmer and Robert Hicks were keen to create a spirit inspired by their surroundings, both human and natural, whilst also contributing to the local economy. The name ‘Seven Crofts’ is in fact a tribute to the origin story of the village. This paired with their genuine love of gin, not only from an enjoyment of a good G & T perspective but also the creative process of working with different botanicals to create a unique blend gave them the vision and drive to create ‘Seven Crofts’.

The distillation process for Seven Crofts is unique in that it involves large amounts of the spirit being redistilled to give the spirit a clear appearance and an overall smoothness on the palate. Everything is distilled in their 100l copper pot stills with the final spirit bottled and packaged by hand in the distillery. The bottle itself is also a design masterpiece that grabs attention wherever displayed. Extensive research was done before the design was finalised, and decisions were made not just based on it being aesthetically pleasing to look at but also that it should be practical for bartenders to hold and pour.

The botanical blend consists of 7 botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica, cardamom, pink peppercorn, cubeb and fresh lemon peels. On the nose the scent is rich with rounded aromatic notes of juniper, pepper and a noticeable hint of ripe plum. To taste there are opulent notes of perfumed forest fruit and a suggestion of woodland. The juniper is assertive with spicy hints of coriander and pink pepper with a long, warm finish. Seven Crofts is a fresh, clean G&T with balanced yet distinctive flavours.

Since their launch they have had some noticeable achievements including winning the Best Newcomer Award at the Scottish Gin Awards in November 2020.

The Perfect Serve

Fever-Tree Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water (provided) or Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and a garnish of Orange

Seven Crofts Gin

Quick Fire Questions…

Tell Us Something We Might Not Know….

It took 96 different recipes to create Seven Crofts. This was initially creating the character and the flavour profile that we sought. Then, wee had to fine tune the recipe and distillation method to give us the clarity and smoothness we desired. – Louis Wright, Highland Liquor Company

What Advice Would You Give To Someone Just Starting Out?

Take your time to develop a brand that matches the quality of the spirit. Packaging and design is moving so quickly now and it is easy to get left behind. It is worth investing in! – Louis Wright, Highland Liquor Company

8.00pm – 8.30pm: Crafted & Conserved with Pangolin Gin

An ethically inspired creation born from the extensive travels of Founder Chris Swanborough, and his passion for wildlife conservation.

During a trip to South Africa in 2019 Chris learned about the illegal trade and demand for Pangolins. They are sadly one of the most illegally trafficked mammals in the world, and perhaps most surprisingly not many people have actually heard of them. Pangolin Gin combines a passion for wildlife conservation and with craft distilling in order to raise awareness of these beautiful creatures and shine a light on the threats to their survival.

When creating the spirit, it was important that South African botanicals were incorporated. Rare African botanicals rooibos, baobab and honeybush are used to create a flavour that captures the easy-going spirit of the South African ‘Sundowner’ – perfect for sipping at the end of a long day. These South African botanicals are then paired with fresh juniper berries, coriander, grapefruit, orange, lemon and cardamom  to ensure the final blend is balanced and flavourful.

Pangolin Gin was founded in April 2020 during the peak of the first national lockdown, and it is tantamount to the drive and determination of Chris and the team that they have been able to bring this gin to life during testing times. Exciting plans are afoot with World Pangolin Day taking place on the 20thFebruary which they plan to celebrate by launching a very special limited-edition pink gin – you heard it here first! There are also plans in the pipeline for a Navy Strength Gin as well.

The Perfect Serve
Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water (provided) or Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and a garnish of Cucumber or Orange & Basil.

Pangolin Gin

Quick Fire Questions…

What Are Your Unique Selling Points In 3 Words?

Ethical, Inspired & Smooth – Chris Swanborough, Pangolin Gin

What Has Been Your Biggest Challenge So Far?

Having officially started the company in April 2020 during the peak of Covid-19 and national lockdown, I don’t think that we could’ve faced a bigger challenge! With the global pandemic causing widespread panic and bringing the economy to a halt, it provided me with a commodity which is increasingly hard to find more of, and that’s time. The lockdown provided me with the time and the opportunity to reflect on my current work/life experiences and allowed me to reassess my priorities in both of these areas. Subsequently Pangolin Gin was born! – Chris Swanborough, Pangolin Gin

What’s The Best Piece of Advice You’ve Received?

Never be afraid to fight for what you believe in! – Chris Swanborough, Pangolin Gin

Where Would You like To See The Gin Industry In 5 Years Time?

Continuing to thrive with new distilleries/companies starting each year. A larger product diversity in the main UK Retailers, with an emphasis on locally sourced, sustainable & ethical products. – Chris Swanborough, Pangolin Gin

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FEVER-TREE

Fever-Tree began in 2003 with a meeting of minds and one simple premise: if three quarters of your G&T is the tonic, wouldn’t you want it to be the best?

It became apparent that Charles and Tim had both come to the same conclusion – namely that the growing prevalence and popularity of premium spirits had not been matched by what was on offer in the tonic category.

From the very beginning, Charles and Tim approached their business in a different way – there would be no compromise at Fever-Tree. Flavour and quality were of the utmost importance. This mindset led them on an 18-month adventure from the archives of the British Library to facing the wrong end of a Kalashnikov in the Democratic Republic of Congo and concluded with the launch of our Premium Indian Tonic Water in 2005, with the belief we still operate by today.. If 3/4 of your drink is a mixer, mix with the best. As well as quality, Charles and Tim wanted to put the choice back into the category.

The whole company has been built on innovation. Constantly developing new mixers, new flavours, new ideas, thus creating, an array of flavours to pair with the myriad of premium Gins, Vodkas, Whisky’s and Vermouths.

 

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Fever-Tree work with only the best naturally sourced ingredients from around the world and no artificial flavourings or sweeteners to create mixers that do justice to the world’s finest spirits.

Fever Tree Sodas

Fever-Tree have taken the same approach used to craft their award-winning range of tonic waters and ginger mixers for dark sprits to launch a new range of sodas. From the start, they set out to design them to perfectly pair with a variety of different premium spirits, from vodkas and gins through to vermouths and Italian liqueurs.

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