We went Gin Making / Blending!

Now Liam (my OH) and I love a good gin and tonic and when local Kent distillers Anno launched a pop up shop in Bluewater we had to go in.

They have all of their gins (full size bottles and miniatures) on site for sale as well as their elderflower and vodka liqueur. 
They have a few options of gift packages as well all neatly wrapped up, which could save some time when it comes to buying Christmas pressies or any other winter celebrations coming up!

Liam tried their gin a while ago and fell in love with their 60² (60% ABV – over proof); sweet anecdote, it was created to celebrate the two founder's birthdays.

We popped into their pop up shop at the beginning of November and found out that they were hosting Gin blending experiences.  So excited to give it a try, Liam and I booked it right there and then.  I also bought a couple of miniatures to tide me over before Christmas, they launch a Christmassy Gin each year, and this year it is Cranberry Gin, it is the same premise a sloe gin, so lower ABV, but it is a glass full of Christmas.  Absolutely delicious.

The experience started with an introduction to the history of Gin by one of their trained staff members.  We then tasted different flavours that we could add to our “base spirit”, which is Juniper & Coriander.  Some of these flavours included Lavender, Cocoa Nibs, Sweet Orange, Kaffir Lime, and so many more!

We initially created a double gin and tonic to try before we made our whole bottle of gin.  This gave us an opportunity to tweak the recipe if something didn’t taste quite right.  Liam and I both loved our own creations so we stuck to what we initially chose.  

This was such a fun afternoon, and I definitely recommend giving it a go if you love your gin.

Liam and I rounded the afternoon off by going into Ed’s Diner to soak up the alcohol as we were a tad squiffy!!

And this is the final article!!  You get to name your own bottle, as mine was very purple I went with "Purple Splash". It was really hard to think of a name on the spot!
I cannot wait to crack this out at Christmas with the family.

I'd love to know what your favourite gin is in the comments section :)

K x