WHAT OUR RESIDENT GIN EXPERT SAYS:

Some gins go for an elegant, pretty design. Others go for a simple, classic bottle. Hendrick's gin draws your attention immediately through being neither classic, nor pretty. The deep black bottle demands attention through blotting out the gin that hides within, stimulating your imagination - what could this bottle hold? Along with its stout shape, it's certainly a gin that demands respect.

It's made by Hendrick's, who are known for their intense infusion of rose petal and cucumber and unique distillation process. Thanks to their centuries of distilling experience and relatively small batches (only 500 litres at a time) they're perfectly positioned to make fantastic gins.

So I poured myself out a lofty measure with ice, added some of our tonic water (London Essence, if you wanted to know) and garnished with a slice of cucumber, as recommended for a gin like this. Tasting it was akin to taking a long drink of ice water in the heat of summer - I'm not exaggerating. The imposingly black bottle belies a unexpectedly refreshing gin within, powerful notes of cucumber sat on my palate whilst the gin seemed to cycle through accompanying flavours - first juniper, then orange and lemon, sweetness and then back to juniper - and I honestly felt as though I could've done a backflip, I was so invigorated. Even considering how refreshing it was, its powerful enough that a floral sensation sat on my palate for a long time after I took that first sip. It took me more than twenty minutes just to finish that glass, because each sip was so delicious I had to sit back and wait for a moment to fully appreciate how great it tasted.

Overall, if you're looking for a refreshing gin to pick you up during the summer (especially with this heatwave we've been having recently) or something to remind you of warmer days, Hendrick's have got you covered. This invigorating gin is absolutely certain to be a delight with anybody - no matter their preference.