Half Hitch Gin (700ml)

A relatively new Gin label, launched in late 2014 by Mark Holdsworth, formerly of Barcardi. Produced in the old warehouse vaults of Camden Lock (a gin epicentre during the 18th century), the brand takes its name from the knot used to moor up barges along the Lock during the industrial era. Holdsworth's gin is unusual in that it's one of the few on the market that relies heavily on tea as a keynote. In fact, to our knowledge, Beefeater 24 and Gunpowder Gin are the only others like it.

Holdsworth initially out-sourced a grain base spirit from Langleys and then added his own unique combination of botanicals. To maximise the flavour input from each, three individual, time intensive production methods are employed: copper pot distillation, vacuum distillation and hand crafted tinctures. Key ingredients are black tea, bergamot, wood, hay and pepper. Holdsworth is particularly enthusiastic about the single estate Malawian black tea, which is hand-blended with Calabrian bergamot sourced from ancient citrus groves in Southern Italy and synonymous with one of Britain’s most iconic tea flavours - Earl Grey. It adds a nice English twist.

In 2016, Half Hitch acquired their own spirit still making this a long term project, so expect more expressions in the near future.

Notes from the producer... On the nose you will discover lifting and aromatic notes of light citrus followed by spicy, fresh cracked pepper and juniper berry. On the palate, note tones of sweet orange, nutmeg and rich black tea before a long finish with lingering touches of cinnamon and fresh lemon zest. 40% Alc./Vol.

Silver Medal 2015 International Wine & Spirits Competition.

Gold Medal Super Premium - 2015 The Gin Masters (The Spirits Business)