Portsmouth Distillery Fort Gin

Portsmouth Distillery Fort Gin: A Journey Through Flavour on the British Coast

The Portsmouth Distillery's Fort Gin is an award-winning dry gin that captures the essence of the English coast. This intricate spirit, boasting a bronze medal from the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2019, is a testament to the passionate craftsmanship of the distillery and the unique botanical tapestry of Portsmouth.

A Distillery Steeped in History

While Dich Oatley may not be the sole creator or blender behind Portsmouth Distillery's exceptional spirits, his infectious enthusiasm and dedication are undeniably the lifeblood of the distillery. Established in 2018, the distillery finds its home within the historic bastion of Fort Cumberland, a captivating location steeped in centuries of naval history. This unique setting undoubtedly influences the character of their spirits, with Fort Gin being a prime example.

Aromatic Intrigue: A Seaside Symphony

The first encounter with Fort Gin is an invitation to explore the British coastline. On the nose, soft juniper berries provide the foundation, characteristic of a classic dry gin. This is soon complemented by a delightful citrus burst, likely grapefruit or sweet orange, adding a touch of vibrancy. Delicate floral notes, reminiscent of elderflower, weave their way through the aroma, creating a sense of elegance. But Fort Gin isn't afraid to surprise. A hint of honeyed warmth emerges, thanks to the inclusion of gorse flowers, a beautiful yellow blossom native to the British Isles. The most intriguing element, however, is the subtle salinity. This unexpected note, attributed to the use of sea radish, evokes a refreshing sea breeze, instantly transporting you to the Portsmouth coast. Hints of peppery spice and coriander round out the complex aromatic profile, hinting at the depth of flavour to come on the palate.

A Silky Smooth Delivery: A Celebration of Botanicals

Fort Gin takes its silky smooth texture to the palate, immediately impressing with its luxurious mouthfeel. The initial wave delivers a burst of sweet orange, beautifully complementing the juniper base. As the spirit lingers, a captivating symphony of botanicals unfolds. The citrus notes give way to a complex interplay of spice, likely influenced by the inclusion of coriander or perhaps Sichuan peppercorns, a botanical occasionally used in gin. This complexity is balanced by a clean and lingering dryness, leaving a pleasant warmth as it finishes. Subtle floral notes, reminiscent of the elderflower detected on the nose, echo on the tongue, providing a final touch of elegance.

The Perfect Serve: Unlocking the Essence of Fort Gin

Fort Gin is a versatile spirit that shines in a variety of cocktails. To truly appreciate its unique character, however, a simple Gin & Tonic is highly recommended. Here's the perfect serve to unlock the essence of Fort Gin:

• 50ml Fort Gin
• 150ml Tonic Water (Indian or Mediterranean style)
• Garnish with a slice of fresh grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary

The grapefruit slice complements the citrus notes in the gin, while the rosemary adds a touch of herbal intrigue. Experiment with different tonic waters to discover the perfect balance for your palate.

Food Pairings: A Culinary Adventure

Fort Gin's complex flavour profile makes it a fantastic partner for a variety of dishes. Here are some food pairings to elevate your culinary experience:

• Seafood: The gin's coastal notes make it a natural companion to fresh seafood. Pair it with oysters, seared scallops, or a light fish dish.
• Aromatic Curries: The citrus and spice notes in Fort Gin can stand up to the boldness of aromatic curries. Try it with a Thai green curry or a fragrant Indian korma.
• Hard Cheeses: The gin's dry finish pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like cheddar or manchego.
• Herb-Infused Dishes: Dishes featuring fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil will find a delightful harmony with Fort Gin.

Experience the Portsmouth Coast in a Glass

Portsmouth Distillery Fort Gin is more than just a spirit; it's an experience. Each sip transports you to the English coast, with its refreshing sea breeze, vibrant citrus groves, and fragrant meadows. With its intricate flavour profile and versatility, Fort Gin is a must-have for any gin enthusiast's collection. So raise a glass and embark on a flavour journey unlike any other.

Order your bottle of Portsmouth Distillery Fort Gin today from The General Wine Company and discover the taste of the British coast!