Alan Rimmer is the only man in the world who knows how to create Hendrick’s Gin. Created out of eleven carefully chosen botanicals, rose petals and cucumber, Hendrick’s is a unique concoction. Well, one day Rimmer was told that he should find another trustworthy person to impart the secret recipe to in case he is not able to come to the distillery sometime. After searching for a year, Rimmer selected his man, who was the watchman of the distillery! The reason given was, “He is the one who comes the earliest. If he is not there, even I won’t be able to enter the distillery. So if I am not there, he is the best person to get things started here!”
Now, does that give you a slight hint of the quirkiness behind the Hendrick’s brand? Check their website – you’ll understand what I am trying to say. And if you get a chance to join one of their unusual fun and game events, well, it’s a full blown-up version of their quirkiness then!
This ‘boutique’ gin was launched in 2003. Even though it’s fairly young in the market, Hendrick’s has gathered a small loyal following around the world. Created in very small batches, the brand anyways doesn’t want to go mass. The rose petals are handpicked from Bulgaria and cucumbers are bought from Holland.
The Hendrick’s bottle is squat, large and distinctive – almost taking you back to the gin’s medicinal roots since it looks like something you’d buy from an apothecary. But the gin itself has a fresh, fruity smell as a hint of juniper wafts into your nose. Replacing the sort of industrial tang that comes from other gins, the ‘nose’ of Hendrick’s is pleasant and mixed with a light ‘citrusy’ smell.
The humble gin and tonic made with Hendrick’s was fresh and garnished with large cucumber slices. The cucumber garnish wasn’t a marketing gimmick, it really added something to the drink. Apart from the obvious gin and tonic, a lot of experiments can be done with Hendrick’s. Mix it to make martinis, cocktails and hot gin punch!
You can try and make these absolutely unique cocktails at home. They are will surely score a point for you from your guests.
Hendrick’s Buck
Hendrick’s Gin, ginger ale, lemon juice and sugar mixed together make a great cocktail.
Hendrick’s Negroni
Mix 25ml Hendrick’s Gin, 25ml Campari and 25ml Sweet Vermouth. This classic bitter gin aperitif is best served with ice and garnished with a lemon twist.
Reshmas Fizz
Again, mix Hendrick’s gin with lime and fresh raspberry, and top it up with Ginger beer.
Hendrick’s Hot Gin Punch
This very interesting drink is made with Hendrick’s gin, Madeira wine, honey, lemon, pineapple, orange peel, cinnamon, spices and herbs. Quite a combination!
Green Blazer
Inspired by a cocktail created in the late 1800s by Jerry Thomas, mix 1/3rd green chartreuse, 2/3rd Hendrick’s gin, infuse with rosemary and then flame it. The look is enough to awe you!
Hendrick's white cargo
This one should appeal to those with a sweet tooth. Vanilla ice cream, Maraschino liqueur, Hendrick’s gin and a sprinkle of nutmeg create this unique and pleasurable concoction