Winchester Distillery Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin

Winchester Distillery Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin: A Journey Through Hampshire in a Glass

Uncorking a Twist: The Allure of Winchester Distillery's Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin

Nestled in the picturesque city of Winchester, Hampshire, the Winchester Distillery produces a gin unlike any other – the Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin. This award-winning spirit takes you on a sensory adventure through Hampshire's verdant landscapes, capturing the essence of its world-famous chalk streams and fresh, peppery watercress.

A Nose Awash with Botanical Delights

The first encounter with Twisted Nose is an awakening for the nose. Juniper, the quintessential gin botanical, lays the foundation, but it's the interplay of other elements that truly captivates. Delicate floral notes of lavender peek through, mingling with the zesty citrus whispers of grapefruit. Hints of earthy cassia bark and peppery fennel seed add a touch of complexity, while the star of the show – watercress – emerges with a subtle sweetness and a surprising peppery kick. The overall impression is one of freshness, intrigue, and a sense of place.

A Sip of Hampshire: The Taste Experience

As the gin crosses your palate, the juniper asserts itself more confidently, its characteristic dryness balanced beautifully by the sweetness of the watercress. The zesty citrus from the grapefruit dances on the tongue, while the earthy notes of cassia bark and the peppery warmth of fennel seed create a captivating symphony of flavours. The watercress truly shines here, leaving a lingering peppery finish that is both refreshing and intriguing. This is a gin that is complex enough to be savoured neat, yet versatile enough to play a starring role in cocktails.

The Art of the Perfect Serve: Untwisting the Possibilities

The beauty of Twisted Nose lies in its adaptability. Here are some suggestions to unlock its full potential:

• The Classic Gin & Tonic: For a refreshing and uncomplicated serve, pair 50ml of Twisted Nose with a high-quality Indian tonic water. Garnish with a sprig of fresh watercress and a twist of grapefruit peel for a beautiful presentation that complements the gin's botanical profile.
• The Watercress Gimlet: Give this classic cocktail a unique twist with Twisted Nose. Combine 50ml of gin with 20ml fresh lime juice, 10ml simple syrup, and a dash of cucumber water. Shake with ice, strain into a chilled coupe glass, and garnish with a sprig of watercress. The result is a vibrant and refreshing drink that highlights the gin's peppery character.
• The Winchester Collins: This twist on the Tom Collins features the herbaceous charm of Twisted Nose. Combine 50ml of gin with 20ml fresh lemon juice, 10ml simple syrup, and a dash of soda water. Shake with ice, strain into a chilled highball glass filled with ice, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of watercress for a touch of Hampshire flair.

Beyond the Glass: Food Pairings for the Discerning Palate

Twisted Nose isn't just a cocktail superstar; it can also elevate your culinary experiences. Here are some inspired pairings:

• Seafood: The gin's citrus notes and refreshing character make it a perfect partner for light seafood dishes. Try it with seared scallops, grilled prawns, or a delicate smoked salmon platter.
• Salads: The herbaceous quality of Twisted Nose complements the flavours of a fresh salad beautifully. Pair it with a goat cheese salad with roasted beetroot, a summery watermelon and feta salad, or a classic Nicoise salad.
• Cheese Platter: Elevate your cheese board by incorporating Twisted Nose. The gin's peppery notes and subtle sweetness pair well with a variety of cheeses, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar.

In Conclusion: A Gin that Captures a Sense of Place

Winchester Distillery's Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin is a testament to the power of terroir and the art of small-batch distillation. It's a gin that is bursting with freshness, complexity, and a unique peppery twist courtesy of the Hampshire watercress. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a crafted cocktail, Twisted Nose promises an unforgettable journey for your senses. So, uncork a bottle, raise a glass, and experience the taste of Hampshire in every sip.

Looking to buy Twisted Nose Watercress Dry Gin?

Look no further than The General Wine Co.! We offer a wide selection of premium gins, including Twisted Nose. Visit our website or our store in Liphook to explore the world of gin and discover your new favourite.