Gin & tonic has been my elixir of choice since there was only really a choice of Gordon’s or Bombay Sapphire. But it has to be a French (or as it has become known in our household ‘dad-sized measure’) and it has to be served over ice with the correct accompaniment. Do not mix up your lime with your cucumber or fear the face of disdain. Such is my dedication to this tipple that most people in my life (husband, parents, friends, acquaintances) have become gin converts… and the clan continues to grow.
My gin adventures have been curtailed somewhat, what with a toddler and a pandemic, however, to celebrate World Gin Day, a highlight on my calendar, this month I wanted to share my top places of gin-spiration. If you have more for me to try, then please let me know.
#1 ROCKSIDE – ANGLESEY
We recently spent a long weekend at this stunning headland property in Trearddur Bay, Anglesey. Yes, the weather was more Med than Wales and with such scenery and picture windows there was no need for television but Daisy (our Border Collie) and I did discover a spectacular spot, complete with Adirondack chairs times two for watching the sun set across the Irish Sea.
Daisy did, eventually, give up her viewing position and Husband appeared with a Forager’s Gin: Black Label from the hills of Snowdonia served in a balloon glass, lots of ice, and some fresh orange peel to accentuate the Sea Buckthorn. Super-rich yet smooth and perfect for the melting sun.
#2 EAGLES NEST – BAY OF ISLANDS, NZ
One of my favourite spots in the world was perched high amongst the manuka trees at the exclusive Eagles Nest estate and our villa, The Eyrie. As the evening birdsong chorus commences it was idyllic to sit, toes in the pool with a cold drink in hand.
Our tipple of favour was the rare Black Robin Rare Gin from the Chatham Islands. Inspired by the rare and endangered Black Robin, we were lucky enough to meet on our adventures, and be comforted by the fact that with every bottle sold the company donates to help protect native wildlife.
#3 THE CHOLMONDELEY ARMS – CHESHIRE
After a long walk with Daisy, we love to pick up the papers and while away a summer or winter’s afternoon at The Cholmondeley Arms. They have a gin for every day of the year and one extra for luck so you are not going to get bored.
The one we keep coming back to is the earthy Forest Gin, served with grapefruit peel and rosemary. Not only do we love the flavours foraged within Macclesfield Forest but the lovely family story and the hand-crafted ceramic bottle (which. when empty, serves as a great single stem vase for anyone who’s interested).
#4 NORTHCOTE MANOR – LANGHO
Whilst I have to admit that gin is usurped by the fabulous seasonal menus served at Northcote Manor, it is the perfect start to your gastronomic feast. With menus by Lisa Goodwin-Allen and wine uniquely paired by Craig Bancroft, before you embark on your foodie journey of discovery of fine-dining and Northern hospitality enjoy a refreshing gin and tonic on the terrace, overlooking the kitchen garden and Lancashire hills.
This is time for a golden oldie (relative in gin terms) Hendricks, ice, and cucumber. And relax. Cheers!
Have you tried Green Man Wildwood Gin from Silent Pool? A gorgeous gin that actually tastes of gin AND in a paper bottle! Delicious and without the glass bottle, it’s festival friendly…
Oooo, will add it to the list! x