The current desire for small batch, hand-made, locally sourced produce is driving the demand for everything from clothes to food. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the drinks market, where British manufacturing is once again becoming more and more highly sought.
First seen in the craft beer movement and now reflected in spirits, small batch gin is fast becoming a prized commodity. With this in mind we went to the Good Spirits Company on Glasgow’s Bath Street, to speak to spirit expert Matthew and mixologist Graeme about their thoughts and recommendations on some of Scotland’s up-and-coming gins.
Named in celebration of the moment that Mary Queen of Scots first spied her husband-to-be Lord Darnley at Wemyss Castle in 1565, Darnley's View is produced by the Wemyss (that's weems not weemiss or weemees) family in Fife. The traditional gin is a London gin made with six carefully selected botanicals brewed to a recipe held by the family.
The floral notes dominate whilst still being very elegant. The hint of grapefruit is there just in the background. It's a very light style with earthy juniper notes pushing through.
When neat:
It's a very restrained flavour, floral and elegant, clean. There's a touch of earthiness on the finish.
With Tonic (one parts gin to two parts Fever Tree) and garnish (sliced lime):
The bitterness of the grapefruit is enhanced by the tonic. It's a summery flavour and doesn't dominate the drink.
Matthew says "A lovely light, summery style gin with the elderflower tones giving it a nice lift"
Graeme's cocktail choice: "A Gin fizz to accentuate that lovely light floral style and citrus fresh summer flavour."
Gin Fizz
