Hendrick's Gin

Hendrick's Gin is a 41.4% ABV gin made by William Grant & Sons at the Girvan distillery in Scotland. Launched in 1999, the gin was developed by master distiller Lesley Gracie and has a distinctive recipe using rose and cucumber essence.

How is Hendrick's made?

The gin is created by blending two separate distillates made using two different methods. In one, the botanicals are steeped in alcohol overnight and distilled in a Bennett-type still dating from the 1860s; in the other, more delicate botanicals are vapour-infused in a basket in the neck of a Carter-Head still dating from the 1940s. The eleven botanicals in the recipe include juniper, coriander, angelica root, orris root, cubeb pepper, chamomile and elderflower. Bulgarian rose and cucumber essences are finally added to the blend.

What does Hendrick's taste like?

Its nose is fresh and floral; cucumber, citrus and light spice are felt. On the palate, within a soft structure, juniper, rose, fresh cucumber, citrus and earthy spice come together. The finish is long, with rose, citrus peel and peppery spice.

How should it be served?

Its signature serve is a gin and tonic made with plenty of ice and tonic, garnished with a thin cucumber slice; it is also frequently used in the Gimlet cocktail.

Which dishes does it pair with?

Cucumber and rose notes suit sushi, light seafood such as smoked salmon, and fresh salads.