Sassenach Spirits Unveils New Botanical Gin: A Toast to Scotland’s Rich Flavors
In the lush landscapes of Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, lies the heart of a remarkable gin. This London dry gin, meticulously distilled using local botanicals, embodies the essence of the region. Its blend harmoniously combines juniper, rhubarb, heather, pine, bramble leaf, blueberry, crab apples, and toasted oats, crafting a taste that is quintessentially classic.
A Culinary Collaboration in Scotland
This summer marked the gin’s successful debut in the US, and now, it has found its way into the esteemed collection of Kitchin’s restaurants across Scotland. This includes the Michelin-starred The Kitchin in Leith and the vibrant Edinburgh restaurant and bar, KORA.
Sam Heughan, best known for his travels in ‘Men In Kilts’, discovered a kindred spirit in the culinary world. This series of Scottish road trips led to a partnership that now celebrates the local flavors of Scotland in Heughan’s spirits.
The Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin, crafted with foraged local botanicals, resonates with Chef Kitchin’s “From Nature to Plate” ethos. Kitchin’s excitement about introducing this gin to his guests is palpable. He appreciates how the spirit’s botanical profile complements the fresh, local produce served in his restaurants.
Innovative Pairings and Cocktail Creations
While a classic G&T features prominently on the menu, The Kitchin’s inventive seasonal concoctions incorporate elderflower, lemon, mint, and cucumber. This versatility opens doors to a myriad of pairing possibilities.
In conversation with db, Heughan shared his aspiration for the gin to excel in cocktails, hence the elevated ABV of 42%. A perfect candidate for a dry martini, the gin’s oats contribute a unique mouthfeel, while its fruit content, especially the apples, add a refreshing zing.
The gin, a proud addition to Heughan’s Sassenach Spirits under the Great Glen Company, co-founded with Alex Norouzi, is more than just a beverage. It’s a celebration of Scottish botanical heritage and a testament to Heughan’s vision of crafting spirits that resonate with the land’s natural beauty.
