Hendricks to use ‘Scorpion Tail’ botanical in gin

Hendrick’s has delved deep into the Venezuelan rainforest to discover a new botanical ingredient, Scorpion Tail, which will be used to produce a limited edition gin.

Hendrick’s master distiller Lesley Gracie (right) with her Scorpion Tail

Master distiller Lesley Gracie ventured into the jungle with explorer Charles Brewer-Carias and botanist Francisco Delascio, experimenting with promising plants in a 10-litre alembic still.

Having covered many different terrains, including the Guayana Highlands, savannah, riverbanks and the jungle, the team came across the Scorpion Tail plant.

Traditionally used as a tea infusion to treat stomach complaints, the Scorpion Tail is said to hold an “intriguing, complex deep green note”.

“The flavour of Scorpion Tail is really difficult to describe, as it doesn’t taste like anything I’ve ever experienced before,” explained Gracie. “However, its intriguingly unique palate will sit well with Hendrick’s and is sure to excite and delight taste buds.”

Lesley distilled 8.4 litres of Scorpion Tail concentrate in the jungle, which was successfully brought back to Scotland in her suitcase, and will begin working on the limited edition gin shortly.

“The quest has been such a remarkable opportunity for us to discover new and unique flavours for distilling and has been an experience that will stay with me forever.”