Williams Sloe and Mulberry Gin, 29%

As always, inspired by unique and decidedly British flavours, we have been busy marinating Herefordshire hedgerow sloe berries, picked after the first frost last November in a bespoke gin blend. Incorporating a selection of botanicals designed specifically to augment the rich flavour of the fruit, the sloes were left to marinade for an initial period of eight months. We then sourced delicious but rarely seen mulberries; adding the fruit for a final two months before decanting and bottling.

• Nose: Deep, rich waves of sloe berry with coy sweet ripples of rosehip, followed by lightly acidic notes of blackcurrant and redcurrant.
• Palate: The mouth feel is delightful and sticky, almost medicinal in the cold winter months. Not overly sweet with a clean tartness around the edges. Big sloe berry notes on entry, complicated and lightly fiery on the mid palate.
• Finish: Lightly dried and astringent with an aftertaste of figs, chopped dates, prune and redcurrant jelly. Gloriously warming!
• Recommended Serve: Ideal as a winter warmer, serve at room temperature with a cinnamon stick wrapped in flamed orange zest, or with a slice of fresh orange.