Downton Dispatches

Ringwood is an old town that dates to 961 and its original name was Rimucwuda meaning 'town next to the wood'. This most likely refers to the New Forest. New Forest wines is run by a wonderful gentleman called Graham who is a walking encyclopaedia of knowledge. Pride, passion and a love for what he does makes this is wonderful place to explore and unearth new wines, spirits, beer, cider and now 'Explorer's Gin.'

To the south west of the New Forest lies the town of Christchurch. This town used to be part of Hampshire but in 1974 became part of Dorset. It's here within the curiosity shop called 'Christchurch Confectioner' that you will now find Explorer's Gin.
Sally and Lloyd run this wonderful shop and the back wall contains the largest selection of small batch gins that I have ever seen! They also host Gin tasting evenings, where several gins are tasted together alongside a mystery guest gin. Make sure you book in advance as these are hot tickets.
Did you know that Christchurch used to be called Twynham but this changed following the construction of the priory in 1094.

Explorer's Gin can now be found at the 'Bath Farmers Market' every Saturday. The market can be found in the old railway station. This beautiful building was built in 1870 and was referred to as ‘Bath Queen Square Station’, after the prestigious square about a quarter of a mile away. In 1951 it became ‘Bath Green Park’ under British Railways.

The market is full of tantalising local produce including the 2014 World Champion Bath Blue Cheese, 'Moist' artisan hummus and fresh milk from 'Dreamers Farm' 20 Jersey cows. If you love a good scotch egg like me - then you will not be disappointed! We look forward to seeing you at the market between 09.00am - 13.00hrs.

WHAT GARNISH?

This is a question that I have often been asked when talking about Explorer's gin. I believe there are no hard and fast rules, however your garnish will impact the flavour profile of 'Explorer's Gin.'

PROFILE

Therefore it is worth understanding the profile. Our profile is soft, designed to be the opposite to some of the bolder flavours. Both citrus, pepper and verbena have been used each providing their own unique flavours. Citrus on the nose, pepper to the taste with verbena providing the silky creamy notes, but at its core a London dry gin.

Therefore using a slice of lemon will do both the gin and your palate a disservice. 

WHAT WE HAVE USED

The simple option is to peel the rind of either a red grapefruit or orange, ensuring both are not the waxed options (super markets often wax their fruit). Then slice the peel into thin strips, twirl and quickly warm into shape over heat.

The heat will release some of the oils within the rind, enhancing the profile of the gin. Dehydrated grapefruit or orange will also work if you can wait that long!

The second method uses both the peel with Sichuan pepper. To release the pepper flavour is easy, heat them in a frying pan then take of the heat. These feisty peppers with the orange will bring your gin and tonic to new heights.  

By knowing the botanicals used in a gin, choose the garnish that you think will complement or enhance those ingredients. Enjoy and have fun.

Explorer's Gin launched at the Salisbury Christmas Market 2018. The first two batches of 180 bottles were sold within two days, much faster than anticipated. In total 17 batches were completed. Local support and feedback were fantastic. We are grateful to everyone who came to see us and you can now order online or see us every Friday night at Downton Brewery.