When it comes to Hepple Gin, it’s all about the juniper. It’s named for Hepple in Northumberland National Park, one of the last reserves for wild juniper, and it was there with winds whipping against the blue bushes where Hepple Gin was born.
Hepple Gin is made using a unique Triple technique that begins with a copper pot, which gives the spirit its smoothness. Then, the distillery vacuum distills the handpicked juniper to daw out the freshness of the berries. Finally, using intense pressures of supercritical extraction that are usually used to create perfumes, they distil the pure essence of juniper berries.
On the nose, there is an immediate fresh scent of green apple, bright grapefruit, and spicy juniper. This then opens up to reveal underlying notes of Douglas Fir and blackcurrant. The palate possesses an initial burst of fresh citrus flavours, which evolve into ripe cantaloupe, while juniper continues to coat the palate. The mouthfeel is lush and a tad sweet. The finish is long and more and more juniper reveals itself along with sandalwood and cedar with a notable savoury presence that complements the blackcurrant and liquorice.
Hepple Gin was created to make the perfect Dry Martini, which is something we can definitely get behind, but if you’re looking to make something a bit different, but still want to keep your drink in the Martini relm, the distillery recommends stirring up a Fireside Martini:
Ingredients:
- 50ml Hepple Gin
- 10ml Palo Cortado Sherry
- 5ml Tangerine Juice
- 5ml Creme de Cacao
- 1ml Oak Smoked Salt Water
Pour all ingredients into a mixing pitcher filled with rock ice. Stir ingredients with the ice and then pour into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a twist of Tangerine.
The Northumberland distillery also makes Douglas Fir Vodka as well as Sloe & Hawthorne Gin.