Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit

Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit: Authentic Botanical Character, Zero Alcohol

Discover the Spirit of Cornwall, Responsibly Reimagined

For those moments when you desire the intricate flavours and aromatic complexity of a premium gin but without the alcohol, Southwestern Distillery presents Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit. Crafted with the same dedication to quality and botanical mastery that defines their celebrated gins, this exceptional spirit offers a sophisticated and satisfying alternative for the discerning drinker. It captures the vibrant essence of the Cornish coast, delivering a truly authentic gin-style experience, perfect for mindful consumption, designated drivers, or simply when you prefer a clear head.

About the Producer: Southwestern Distillery – Cornwall's Craft Pioneers

Nestled on the wild North Cornish coast near Padstow, Southwestern Distillery is the brainchild of founder and master distiller, Tarquin Leadbetter. Inspired by the breathtaking local landscape and a passion for classic distilling methods, Tarquin established the distillery with a vision to create spirits that embody the spirit of Cornwall. They are renowned for their hands-on, artisanal approach. Every batch is meticulously crafted, with botanicals sourced both locally and from around the globe.  

The distillery operates traditional, flame-fired copper pot stills – named Tamara, Senara, Tressa, and Ferrara – which play a crucial role in developing the unique character of their spirits. This commitment to small-batch production and quality ingredients has earned Tarquin's numerous international awards and a loyal following. Their expansion into the non-alcoholic sphere with this Cornish Dry variant demonstrates their innovative spirit and commitment to catering to evolving consumer preferences, without compromising on the flavour profiles that made their name.  

Detailed Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Perfectly clear and bright, mirroring the visual purity of a classic distilled gin. Swirling in the glass, it shows good clarity, promising a clean tasting experience.
• Aroma: The aromatic profile is immediately recognisable and inviting. Leading notes of fresh, piney juniper berry are prominent, establishing its classic dry gin character. This is beautifully complemented by bright, zesty citrus notes – think fresh lemon peel and a hint of sweet orange oil. Underlying these primary scents are delicate floral hints and a subtle warmth from carefully selected spices, likely including coriander seed and perhaps a touch of Angelica root, adding layers of complexity. The overall impression is clean, vibrant, and deeply aromatic.  
• Palate: On tasting, the spirit delivers a wonderfully smooth and refreshing mouthfeel. The juniper remains at the forefront, providing that characteristic dry backbone. The citrus elements translate beautifully onto the palate, offering a lively burst of freshness that lifts the spirit. Mid-palate, you may detect subtle herbal and spice notes – hints of cardamom or cinnamon perhaps – woven intricately into the botanical blend. While lacking the heat of alcohol, it possesses a well-structured body and a complexity that engages the senses. It avoids being thin or watery, instead offering a rounded and satisfying palate impression.  
• Finish: The conclusion is exceptionally clean and crisp, leaving a lingering echo of juniper and zesty citrus. There's a pleasing dryness that makes it incredibly refreshing and invites another sip. The botanical notes fade gently, ensuring a refined and balanced aftertaste.  

Serving Suggestions

Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit is designed for versatility, shining both in simple serves and more elaborate non-alcoholic cocktails.

• The Perfect Non-Alcoholic G&T: For the most authentic experience, serve 50ml of Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit over plenty of ice in a highball or Copa glass. Top with 150ml of premium tonic water (see our Fever-Tree recommendation below). Gently stir and garnish with a generous wedge of pink grapefruit or a twist of fresh orange peel. A sprig of fresh rosemary also makes a delightful aromatic addition.
  
   
• Cornish Garden Spritz (0% ABV): Combine 50ml Tarquin's Non-Alcholic Spirit, 25ml elderflower cordial, and 15ml fresh lime juice in an ice-filled wine glass. Top with premium soda water or lemonade and gently stir. Garnish with cucumber ribbons and a mint sprig.
  
   
• Designated Driver's Collins (0% ABV): Shake 60ml Tarquin's Non-Alcoholic Spirit, 30ml fresh lemon juice, and 15ml sugar syrup with ice. Strain into an ice-filled Collins glass and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.
  
   

Recommended Fever-Tree Pairing

To fully appreciate the classic botanical profile of Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit in a G&T style serve, we highly recommend pairing it with Fever-Tree Premium Indian Tonic Water. Its clean, crisp bitterness and subtle citrus notes perfectly enhance the juniper and citrus character of the spirit, creating a truly authentic and refreshing non-alcoholic G&T.

For a slightly different profile, consider:

• Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water: Offers softer citrus and herbal notes (lemon thyme, rosemary) for a gentler, more aromatic pairing.
• Fever-Tree Elderflower Tonic Water: Adds delicate floral sweetness, creating a lighter, summery variation.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The bright, botanical nature of this non-alcoholic spirit makes it a superb partner for a variety of dishes:

• Seafood: Excellent with smoked salmon (especially Cornish), grilled prawns, fresh oysters, or a classic seafood platter. The spirit's citrus notes cut through richness and complement the flavours of the sea.  
• Light Bites & Salads: Pair with cucumber sandwiches, light salads with vinaigrette dressings, vegetable crudités with hummus, or spring rolls. Its refreshing quality won't overwhelm delicate flavours.
• Fish & Chips: A sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative to enjoy with this British classic. The crispness contrasts well with the battered fish.
• Mildly Spiced Dishes: Try alongside light Thai green curries or Indian snacks like vegetable samosas, where the botanicals can complement the aromatic spices without clashing.

Cheese Pairing Recommendation

For a delightful cheese pairing, we suggest a fresh, tangy Cornish Goat's Cheese. Its bright acidity and creamy texture provide a wonderful contrast and complement to the juniper and citrus notes of the Tarquin's Non-Alcoholic Spirit. Alternatively, a Cornish Yarg, wrapped in its characteristic nettle leaves, offers gentle, earthy, and slightly herbaceous notes that harmonise beautifully with the spirit's botanical profile. Serve simply with plain crackers or oatcakes.  

In Conclusion

Tarquin's Cornish Dry Non-Alcoholic Spirit is a masterful creation that successfully captures the essence of a premium dry gin without the alcohol. Its vibrant botanical profile, rooted in Cornish craftsmanship, offers unparalleled refreshment and complexity in the non-alcoholic category. Perfect for crafting sophisticated zero-alcohol cocktails or enjoying as a classic G&T alternative, it allows everyone to partake in the ritual and enjoyment of a quality spirit, anytime. Experience the authentic taste of Cornwall, responsibly reimagined. Add a bottle to your basket today.