Bulldog Gin

With a name as quintessentially British as this, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's origins followed suit, however, Bulldog Gin is the brainchild of American based investment banker, Anshuman Vohra.

Quadruple distilled, and bottled in England, Bulldog is a relative newcomer in the UK gin marketplace, having only been available via local retailers since 2015, despite its New York launch back in 2007. 

Using 12 botanicals from 8 countries, Bulldog claims to be a 'modern alternative to some of the more traditional, juniper heavy brands on the marketplace', and pulls no punches in their marketing, creating a (fairly well deserved) 'arrogance' to the product. Botanicals such as natural poppy, lavender, dragon eye, lotus leaves and citrus, combine to create a complex, somewhat 'quirky' and yet surprisingly well-balanced flavour profile which is exceptionally enjoyable in a classic G&T, and ideally suited to a vast array of cocktails alike. 

On the nose, Bulldog gives citrus, floral and juniper notes, whilst the palate, despite the plethora of Asian botanicals, blends beautifully for a well rounded, 'traditional' taste with a difference. Overall this gin is an absolute beauty which I have now purchased personally (a ringing endorsement if ever there was) 

Bulldog themselves recommend a garnish of lemon to accompany its pairing with a premium Indian tonic... and I would hasten to agree, however, for a warmer alternative I highly recommend a cinnamon stick and a star anise to accompany the classic tonic....bringing the spicier flavours to the forefront and offering up a delicious warmth.

In partnership The Paddocks Bar, Blandford Forum

Newton House Gin

Being the Instagram addict that I am, I am usually very swiftly aware of new and upcoming gins. Newton House was no exception and piqued my interest as soon as I saw them appear, not yet a year ago. Having then looked into their botanicals and taste notes, they were promptly added to my 'must try' list and remained there until about a month back when, having heard of their win at the World Gin Awards, I decided it was definitely not only time to sample, but stock this London Dry at The Paddocks Bar, for whom I source, stock and review their swiftly expanding Gin selection.

I met with their distiller, Tristan, here at The Paddocks and chatted over the development and story behind this fairly local gin. Located just down the road in Yeovil, Newton House is resident of its namesake property in beautiful Newton Somerville. Distilled in small batches, it is a London dry with a delightful selection of botanicals inspired by the gardens of Newton House itself, including orange peel, mint, peaches and blueberries to name but a few. A delightful citrus burst to taste with mint and floral flavours to accompany, and a warming, peppery finish... this gin is beautiful served with a high quality Indian Tonic, a good wedge of lime and three bruised mint leaves. I have to say, this gin has shot straight into my current favourites list and looks set to stay! Crisp, clean and ridiculously drinkable....give this one a try immediately!

In partnership with The Paddocks Bar, Blandford Forum.

The London No.1

Following on from my previous post, I am again working in collaboration with The Paddocks Bar, Blandford. Next up is the original blue gin... The London No.1

Distilled in small batches in the heart of London, this striking, blue-tinged spirit boasts twelve botanicals from around the world, resulting in an exceptionally well balanced Gin. 

Recognisable by its turquoise hue, The London No.1 derives its distinctive tint from the inclusion of Gardenia flowers, a favourite plant of Queen Victoria.  

Owing to the colouration of this gin, I thoroughly dismissed it as a 'gimicky' product, the majority of which have disappointed me substantially. However, having given The London No.1 a fair shot, I have to say I have well and truly eaten my words and I concede that it is, perhaps, deserving of its bold, somewhat egotistical, naming. 

On the nose, this gin throws a hefty helping of juniper with pine and spice additions. To taste, juniper and citrus lead with pine and a gentle sweetness. The high ABV (47%) means there is a slight burn, but it's no so much as to be offensive - over ice, this is somewhat dulled and allows the lighter flavours to come through. If serving as a G&T I recommend a premium Indian tonic such as Fevertree, a twist of lemon and juniper berries. 

Overall, this is a fun and colourful gin which will not only be a visual talking point, but great in a simple G&T or cocktail alike. 

In partnership with The Paddocks Bar, Blandford Forum.

Whitley Neill Handcrafted Dry Gin

Marketed as a British Dry Gin 'inspired by Africa', Whitley Neill is distilled in small batches by Johnny Neill, who just so happens to be a direct descendant of Thomas Greenall. With 8 generations of gin distillation in his bloodline, Johnny has created a unique, and deservedly award-winning gin which holds its own in the increasingly saturated spirits marketplace. 

I first had the pleasure of sampling Whitley Neill over a year ago, so this gin is far from new to me, and still holds its place as a firm favourite and frequent 'go-to'. Boasting a delightful blend of traditional botanicals with the more exotic addition of baobab fruit and cape gooseberries, Whitley Neill offers up an exceptionally smooth gin with distinct spice, juniper and citrus on the nose. 

To taste, the juniper notes hold strong but are well balanced with a delightful earthy spice and a distinctive citrus 'zing'. Pairing for me is undoubtedly a premium Indian Tonic such as FeverTree, and a slice of orange to compliment both the citrus and spiced notes of this gin. 

Enjoy!

In partnership with The Paddocks Bar, Blandford Forum

Whisky Sour Recipe

So, I'm definitely a Gin girl through and through, but if I'm going to cheat on Gin....it's with a whisky sour!

Hands down my go-to cocktail on a night out, and a fairly easy beverage to make at home. 

Ingredients 

2 parts Bourbon Whisky

1 part Lemon Juice

1/2 part Sugar Syrup

1/2 part fresh Egg White

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Cubed Ice

Twist of Orange to garnish

Method

Put the cubed ice and all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake hard for about 20 seconds until the liquid is well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with a twist of orange.