Sipsmith Distillery Sloe Gin 50cl

Sipsmith Distillery Sloe Gin 50cl: A Deep Dive into a London Favourite

Sipsmith Distillery's Sloe Gin is a beloved British liqueur, showcased in a compact 50cl bottle. This offering perfectly captures the essence of autumnal hedgerows, making it a delightful treat throughout the year. But what exactly makes this sloe gin so special? Let's delve into a detailed tasting note, explore serving suggestions, and discover why it deserves a place on your home bar shelf.

A Legacy of Quality: Sipsmith's Commitment to Craft

Sipsmith, established in 2007, is renowned for its dedication to traditional London Dry Gin production methods. Their sloe gin follows suit, upholding the brand's reputation for quality and flavour. They use hand-picked sloe berries, steeped in their classic Sipsmith gin recipe. This meticulous approach results in a complex and nuanced sloe gin, brimming with fruity character.

Tasting Notes: A Journey Through the Senses

• Nose: The initial aroma offers a burst of redcurrant, reminiscent of summer berries just bursting with ripeness. Hints of winter fruits like damson and sloe itself peek through, interwoven with a subtle touch of almond, adding a touch of elegance.
• Palate: The first sip delivers a wave of cassis, a type of blackcurrant, with a pleasant surprise of soft cherry notes. The classic juniper backbone of Sipsmith gin makes a subtle appearance, providing a touch of warmth and complexity. The overall flavour profile is delightfully fruity and well-rounded, thanks to Sipsmith's signature balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Finish: The sloe gin lingers on the palate with a velvety mouthfeel, leaving a pleasant and lasting impression. The sweetness is restrained, allowing the natural fruit flavours to shine through.

Sipping Suggestions: Unlocking the Full Potential

Sipsmith Sloe Gin's versatility makes it a perfect choice for various drinking occasions. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it:

• Neat: This is a fantastic way to appreciate the full complexity of the sloe gin. Sip it chilled, savouring the interplay of fruit, juniper, and a hint of almond.
• On the Rocks: For a refreshing twist, serve Sipsmith Sloe Gin over ice. The melted ice dilutes the spirit slightly, making it even smoother and easier to drink.
• Sloe Gin Fizz: This classic cocktail combines the sweet and tart notes of the sloe gin with the refreshing effervescence of soda water. Simply mix 50ml of Sipsmith Sloe Gin with 25ml of fresh lemon juice, top with soda water, and garnish with a lemon wedge.
• Blackthorn Bramble: This twist on the Bramble cocktail uses sloe gin instead of blackberry liqueur. Muddle a handful of blackberries in a shaker, add 50ml of Sipsmith Sloe Gin, 25ml of lemon juice, and 10ml of sugar syrup. Shake well with ice and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a fresh blackberry.
• Warm Winter Punch: Sipsmith Sloe Gin adds a delightful touch to winter warmers. Combine 50ml of sloe gin with 25ml of apple cider, 25ml of cranberry juice, and a squeeze of orange juice in a heatproof mug. Heat gently (do not boil) and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange.

Beyond the Glass: Culinary Applications

Sipsmith Sloe Gin's versatility extends beyond cocktails. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your culinary creations:

• Desserts: Drizzle Sipsmith Sloe Gin over vanilla ice cream for a delightful fruit sauce. It can also be used to create a boozy glaze for cakes or tarts.
• Fruit Salads: A splash of sloe gin adds a touch of complexity to fruit salads, particularly those featuring berries and stone fruits.
• Sauces:  For a unique twist, deglaze a pan with Sipsmith Sloe Gin when making a sauce for lamb or duck. The fruity notes will complement the richness of the meat.

In Conclusion: A Sipping Gem from Sipsmith

Sipsmith Sloe Gin is a testament to the distillery's dedication to quality and flavour. With its enticing aroma, complex palate, and smooth finish, it's a delightful drink to savour on its own or use as a base for creative cocktails.  The compact 50cl bottle makes it perfect for exploring the world of sloe gin or adding a touch of fruity elegance to your home bar. So, why not raise a glass and discover the magic of Sipsmith Sloe Gin?