Distillery targets on-trade with new Cocktail Gin

A UK distillery has created a gin exclusively for the on-trade to use in cocktails, claiming the expression is ideal for mixing due to its more potent notes of juniper.

Two Birds Cocktail Gin embodies more intense juniper notes which remain palatable in cocktails

Created by Leicestershire-based Two Birds Spirits, Two Birds Cocktail Gin is created through a “unique distillation process” which allows the liquid to have a “more intense juniper flavour” which will not be lost in cocktails.

To create this flavour, the company’s distillers first carry out a cold maceration of the botanicals before tightly controlling heat output so that essential oils can be released.

“Being independent craft distillers, we have the flexibility to experiment with new products and different flavour profiles as well as alcohol levels,” said Two Birds co-founder Mark Gamble. “After discussions with friends working in the drinks industry, we saw there was a gap in the market for a stronger gin but not an over-proof level.

“So we set about to create the perfect gin for cocktails; using exactly the same botanicals used in our London Dry Gin but altering our distilling profile to bring out the individual flavours.

The expression is described as notes of pepper and vanilla which leads to a “smooth and sophisticated finish”.

As well as the 40% abv Two Birds Cocktail Gin, the company’s portfolio also includes a London Dry Gin, English Vodka, and absinthe, all of which are produced in small batches of 100 bottles at a time.

Another UK craft distillery, Sipsmith, recently adopted a similar trend of juniper-led gin, but also embraced a higher abv, with its V.J.O.P (Very Junipery Over Proof) bottling.