Williams Chase Elegant Crisp Gin (700ml)

Having sold Tyrrells Potato Chips, the Williams Chase Group diversified into a new direction with their spuds - the creation of fine spirits. The family grow, mash, ferment, strip and distil their own full pedigree, gluten free, King Edward & Lady Claire potatoes on their Herefordshire farm. They use only traditional artisan methods including a bespoke copper pot still for the initial charge and a unique 70 foot rectification column, reputedly the tallest in Europe, for two further distillations.

Not content with knocking out their award winning potato vodka, they've now bottled a wonderfully fresh gin, distilled from their own organically grown apples. According to theginstress.com, "To make their gin they put the botanicals into a pillowcase (yep, a pillowcase!) and toss that into the carter of their still, Ginny. As the vapours pass through the pillowcase they are flavoured with the botanicals [these include juniper, coriander seeds, angelica seeds, angelica root, liquorice root, orris root, orange and lemon peel, hops, dried elderflower and fresh Bramley apples cut into eighths] Once flavoured, the spirit is mixed with water drawn from a source on their property".

Tasting note: Crystal clear. Citrus peel over juniper shifting towards a floral accent after brief aeration. White pepper and lemon meringue pie-like aromas in subsequent passes. Creamy textured with soft, tingly spices and an interesting apple / juniper crossed profile that fades dry, gently peppery and vibrant. Excellent balance at this ABV. 48% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Appearance: Crystal clear. Aroma: Clean with piny juniper, and zesty lemon, honey and mint. Taste: Leads with spicy hops, piney juniper and concentrated sweet apple juice with more subtle floral elderflower. Strong enough to stand up to tonic. Aftertaste: Spicy with bursts of dry liquorice. - www.diffordsguide.com