Black Tomato Gin

Black Tomato Gin: A Savoury Spirit Redefining Cocktails (www.thegeneralwine.co.uk)

Black Tomato Gin: A revolutionary spirit hailing from the Netherlands, Black Tomato Gin stands alone as the world's first gin infused with black tomatoes. Distilled at the port of Bruinisse, this unique creation is the brainchild of Alfred Sandee and Leon Meijers, two entrepreneurs with a shared passion for unexpected flavour combinations. Sandee's love for gin met Meijer's hobby of cultivating black tomatoes, sparking the innovative spirit that is Black Tomato Gin.

A Symphony of Savoury and Juniper: Black Tomato Gin breaks the mould of traditional gins. Fresh, handpicked black tomatoes sourced from sun-drenched Sicily are crushed and macerated with neutral alcohol, forming the base of this intriguing spirit. Juniper berries, the cornerstone of any gin, are meticulously distilled alongside a secret vegetable botanical, adding a layer of complexity. Finally, filtered seawater is introduced, creating a subtle salinity that accentuates the gin's savoury notes.

Tasting Black Tomato Gin: The first sip of Black Tomato Gin is an explosion of unexpected flavours. The juniper provides the familiar warmth expected from a gin, but it's intertwined with a distinct sweetness and earthiness derived from the black tomatoes. The secret botanical adds a layer of intrigue, hinting at peppery or herbal characteristics. The finish is surprisingly dry, with a lingering hint of salinity from the seawater that cuts through the richness of the tomatoes. This interplay of sweet, savoury, and earthy notes makes Black Tomato Gin a truly captivating spirit.

Perfect Serve: To fully appreciate Black Tomato Gin's unique profile, we recommend serving it neat or on the rocks. The addition of ice helps to temper the spirit's initial intensity, allowing the delicate tomato nuances to emerge. For a touch of dilution, consider a splash of chilled water.

Tonic Pairing: If you prefer your gin in a longer drink, Black Tomato Gin pairs exceptionally well with specific tonics. Opt for tonics that complement the gin's savoury character. Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic is a perfect choice, with its notes of rosemary, thyme, and olive that mirror the gin's botanical profile. Alternatively, Thomas Henry Indian Tonic offers a subtle citrus character that cuts through the richness of the tomatoes, creating a refreshing balance.

Food Pairings: Black Tomato Gin's versatility extends beyond the realm of cocktails. Its unique flavour profile makes it a fantastic partner for a variety of culinary creations.

• Seafood: The gin's salinity and subtle sweetness make it a natural pairing for any seafood dish. Try it with grilled oysters, pan-seared scallops, or a light ceviche.
• Cheese: The complex flavours of Black Tomato Gin beautifully complement creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie. Serve the gin alongside a cheese board for a delightful exploration of textures and tastes.
• Charcuterie: The smoky, savoury notes of cured meats like prosciutto or chorizo find a harmonious partner in Black Tomato Gin.
• Salads: Ditch the usual vinaigrette and add a splash of Black Tomato Gin to your salad dressing for a unique savoury twist. Pair it with ingredients like grilled vegetables, goat cheese, or olives.

Black Tomato Gin: A Cocktail Renaissance: Black Tomato Gin's innovative spirit extends beyond the glass. This unique gin is a launchpad for creative cocktail experimentation. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Black Tomato Martini: A twist on the classic, this martini combines Black Tomato Gin with a touch of dry vermouth and a garnish of a halved black olive.
• Salty Dog: For a refreshing highball, combine Black Tomato Gin with grapefruit soda and a dash of sea salt on the rim of the glass.
• Bloody Mary, Reimagined: Swap out the vodka in your Bloody Mary for Black Tomato Gin, creating a savoury and complex twist on this brunch time favourite.

Black Tomato Gin is more than just a gin; it's an invitation to explore new flavour horizons. With its unexpected yet balanced profile, this revolutionary spirit promises to redefine your cocktail experience. So, raise a glass and discover the world of Black Tomato Gin.