Sipsmith Distillery London Cup

Sipsmith London Cup: A Nostalgic Gin Punch Reimagined for Summer Sipping

The Sipsmith London Cup is a captivating spirit that takes inspiration from the historic gin punches of 18th century London. This pre-bottled concoction, crafted by Sipsmith, a renowned London distillery, offers a delightful and refreshing twist on a classic.

Aromatic Adventure: A Symphony of Citrus and Spice

Pour yourself a glass of the Sipsmith London Cup, and you'll be greeted by an enticing aroma. The juniper notes, characteristic of gin, take centre stage, but they're beautifully balanced by a burst of fresh citrus. Hints of burnt orange and caramel add a touch of complexity, while the floral fragrance of Earl Grey tea peeks through, promising a unique and intriguing flavour profile.

On the Palate: A Delightful Medley of Gin and Botanicals

The first sip of the Sipsmith London Cup is an explosion of flavour. The juniper backbone provides a dry foundation, but it's quickly complemented by a wave of zesty marmalade. The citrus notes are vibrant and refreshing, reminiscent of a summer garden. The Earl Grey tea infusion adds a subtle touch of tannin, creating a pleasant astringency that keeps the palate lively.

As the flavours develop, you'll notice hints of lemon verbena and borage, two botanicals that contribute to the gin's complexity. The borage, a herb with a cucumber-like quality, adds a subtle vegetal note that lingers in the background. Meanwhile, the lemon verbena brings a touch of lemongrass and citrus peel, further enhancing the refreshing character of the spirit.

The Finish: A Lingering Warmth with a Hint of Bittersweet Spice

The Sipsmith London Cup boasts a smooth and satisfying finish. The initial burst of citrus gives way to a touch of scorched oak, adding a hint of smokiness. This smokiness is balanced by a bittersweet spice, reminiscent of liquorice and absinthe. The lingering aftertaste is surprisingly complex, leaving you wanting another sip to explore its nuances.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Spirit for Summer Entertaining

The Sipsmith London Cup is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• The Classic Serve:  For a refreshing and uncomplicated drink, simply combine 50ml of Sipsmith London Cup with 150ml of chilled lemonade. Garnish with a wheel of lemon or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of visual appeal. This crowd-pleasing concoction is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply relaxing in the garden on a summer's day.
• A Touch of Fizz: If you prefer something with a bit more sparkle, top your 50ml of Sipsmith London Cup with chilled ginger ale or soda water. A squeeze of fresh lime or a few raspberries can add a touch of fruity sweetness and a delightful pop of colour.
• The Long Sip: For a more sophisticated option, try the Sipsmith London Cup on the rocks. Pour 50ml of the spirit over a large ice cube and garnish with a twist of orange peel. This allows the flavours of the gin to slowly unfurl, revealing its depth and complexity.
• The Cocktail Canvas:  The Sipsmith London Cup also serves as a fantastic base for crafting unique cocktails.  Here's a suggestion to get your creative juices flowing:
• The London Cooler: Combine 50ml of Sipsmith London Cup, 25ml of elderflower liqueur, 25ml of fresh lime juice, and a dash of Angostura bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a sprig of lavender for a touch of floral elegance.

In Conclusion: A Refreshing Reimagining of a Historic Punch

The Sipsmith London Cup is a triumph in spirit innovation. It captures the essence of the historic gin punches of 18th century London, offering a complex and flavourful experience in a convenient pre-bottled format.  This versatile spirit is perfect for sipping on its own, mixing into refreshing cocktails, or sharing with friends and family during summer gatherings.

So, raise a glass of Sipsmith London Cup, and embark on a delightful journey through a symphony of citrus, spice, and botanical intrigue.