WHAT OUR RESIDENT GIN EXPERT SAYS:

Sometimes it's best to get back to basics. In my time here testing gins, I've had bottles covered in parchment. I've had bottles with scales. I've had bottles that weren't really bottles, because they were made of copper. So to look at this unassuming gin, with it's simple (although visually appealing) design, you could be forgiven for thinking that it's not as fantastical as the rest.

Well, I can tell you that you should shelve your preconceptions, because Fisher's Original Gin is a pleasantly unique experience - perhaps because, in essence, it's so simple. They describe it as "the Authentic Coastal Spirit", and being from the coast myself, I can tell you that they're right. The simple bottle shows that Fishers, a distillery based between the sea and the salt marshes of Aldeburgh in Suffolk, doesn't need any fancy tricks to make their gin desirable. It's just that good.

And as I've said before, nobody buys gin just to look at the bottle. Uncorking, I was immediately hit with an rather herby scent, tantalising my nose - and I could also detect a faint scent of salt, almost like the sea; rather fitting given the "Authentic Coastal Spirit" moniker. I poured a large measure onto ice and added some tonic water, and was immediately met with a refreshingly sweet taste. Juniper, of course, at the forefront - and hints of orange peel and saltiness reminiscent of the sea air I'm so fond of. To finish, there was a delightfully minty taste, with small remnants of sweetness and spice.

Obviously I live by the sea. I could go visit any time. But for someone who hasn't been in years, or maybe had never been before, this gin would act as a perfect example of what life is like here. I can honestly say it captured the spirit of the coast, fulfilling its title, and would be a treat for almost anyone to enjoy.