History and Taste Behind Alfred's Gin Distillery in London

The History Behind Alfred's Gin

Gin has become one of the most popular spirits in recent years, experiencing a resurgence among the craft cocktail crowd. While large brands still dominate the market, smaller distilleries are gaining traction with their attention to detail and quality ingredients. One such brand is Alfred's Gin, a boutique distillery based in London, England. But who is Alfred and what's the story behind his distinctive gin?

Honoring a Family Tradition

Alfred's Gin was founded in 2014 by siblings Simon and Victoria Loomes, whose family had been making gin for decades. Their great-grandfather Alfred was one of the first distillers to receive a license to commercially produce gin in London in the 1920s. He perfected his recipe using a unique combination of botanicals that gave the spirit its crisp, balanced flavor.

When Simon and Victoria made the decision to launch their own brand, they dug up Alfred's original recipe and set about distilling it using modern techniques and the highest quality ingredients. According to Simon Loomes: "We felt it was time to bring Alfred's gin back to life and share it with the world. Our great-grandfather would be proud that his legacy lives on."

Small Batch Production

From the beginning, Alfred's Gin has been made in small batches in their copper pot still. This gives them great control over the process from the selection of botanicals to the final spirit. Each botanical is carefully measured and added at different stages of distillation to extract the perfect balance of flavors.

Their gin contains juniper berries, coriander seed, angelica root and citrus peels - a classic London Dry style. But they also add some unique botanicals such as ginger, hibiscus and lemon verbena. This gives their gin a distinct peppery kick with subtle floral notes.

Award-Winning Taste

It didn't take long for Alfred's Gin to earn accolades and awards. After just one year in business, they won a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The judges praised the gin's aromas of citrus, herbs and spices with a "surprisingly creamy mid-palate."

Alfred's Gin has since won several more awards at international spirit competitions. At the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition it took home a double gold medal. And it received a 95 point rating from The Spirits Business Gin Masters. This impressive track record demonstrates the distillery's commitment to quality and taste.

The Perfect Gin for Cocktails

In addition to sipping it neat or on the rocks, Alfred's Gin shines in cocktails. Its nuanced botanicals and smooth finish make it very mixable. The gin brings out the best in other ingredients without overpowering them.

Alfred's Gin & Tonic

Naturally, their gin makes an excellent Gin & Tonic. The key is using high quality tonic water that isn't too sweet. Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water is an ideal choice with its signature bitter taste. Add a squeeze of fresh lime and serve it over ice for a refreshing cocktail. The ginger and citrus notes of Alfred's Gin work beautifully with the tonic water.

Martinez Cocktail

For a classic cocktail, the Martinez highlights Alfred's Gin nicely. It combines gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur and orange bitters. The botanicals of the gin pair nicely with the botanicals of the vermouth. A dash of liqueur adds fruitiness while the bitters tie everything together. It's a very balanced, aromatic drink.

Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling is a legendary tropical cocktail that usually calls for gin as its base spirit. Alfred's Gin puts a distinctive spin on this drink. Pineapple juice, cherry brandy and Bénédictine create fruity flavors that complement the hibiscus and lemon verbena notes. For an extra kick, add a few slices of ginger with the other garnish.

Alfred's Gin Premixed Cocktails

In 2020, Alfred's Gin launched a line of ready-to-drink canned cocktails. They partnered with mixologists to create three refreshing flavors using their award-winning gin.

Gin & Tonic

Their take on a Gin & Tonic contains Alfred's Gin blended with tonic, lemon juice and botanical extracts. It's lightly carbonated with a tart, citrusy taste. The convenience of a ready-made G&T makes it perfect for picnics, parties or weekends on the go.

Pink & Tonic

For those who enjoy fruity drinks, the Pink & Tonic adds cranberry juice to the classic G&T. It has a gorgeous pink hue and slightly sweet, berry flavor. The ginger and hibiscus notes of the gin pair deliciously with the cranberries.

Orange & Ginger Spritz

Finally, the Orange & Ginger Spritz has vibrant orange and ginger flavors. The juice is mixed with gin, lemon juice and soda water for a fizzy, citrusy cocktail. Tart lemon, peppery ginger and sweet orange mingle together deliciously. It's like a mimosa with a ginny twist.

Distilling Excellence in London

Alfred's Gin brings history and innovation together in their world-class gin. By reviving and improving on their great-grandfather's recipe, siblings Simon and Victoria Loomes have created a spirit enjoyed by gin aficionados today. Their dedication to flavor and quality shines through in every sip.

The story of Alfred's Gin is one of honoring family and pursuing excellence. As they continue distilling in London, their future looks as bright as their spirits. When you enjoy an Alfred's Gin cocktail, you're tasting a legacy over a century in the making. Cheers to that!

FAQs

What botanicals are used in Alfred's Gin?

Alfred's Gin contains a blend of juniper berries, coriander seed, angelica root, citrus peels, ginger, hibiscus and lemon verbena. The unique additions like ginger and hibiscus give it a distinctive flavor profile.

Where is Alfred's Gin produced?

Alfred's Gin is distilled in small batches at their distillery in London, England. They use a traditional copper pot still to carefully control the process.

What awards has Alfred's Gin won?

Alfred's Gin has won several prestigious awards including gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition. It also earned a 95 point rating from The Spirits Business Gin Masters.

Does Alfred's Gin sell pre-made cocktails?

Yes, in 2020 Alfred's Gin launched a line of ready-to-drink canned cocktails. The flavors are Gin & Tonic, Pink & Tonic with cranberry, and Orange & Ginger Spritz.

How can I find Alfred's Gin near me?

Alfred's Gin is distributed in many major markets globally. Check their website to find local liquor stores or bars that carry it. You can also order it online through some retailers.