Hayman’s Gin has released True English Hopped Gin, the first special edition bottling under its ‘Bartender Release’ series.
The new gin was co-created by bartender Jordan Sweeney of The Wigmore Tavern at the Langham Hotel, the 2018 winner of Hayman’s True Taste Competition.
Jordan’s prize included a five-day distilling apprenticeship working under master distiller Christopher Hayman and distiller Sam Pembridge.
Jordan said: “The knowledge you gain during the apprenticeship is the prize. I’ve had the chance to get hands on experience in a working distillery with true professionals.
“It is incredible that one of the most respected gin companies will be selling my very own gin! I cannot wait to see the reaction to it, especially from fellow bartenders and others I respect in the industry.’
To create True English Hopped Gin, Jordan added fresh grapefruit and heritage English Fuggle and Goldings hop varietals to Haymans’ signature blend of ten botanicals.
A bright burst of citrus from the grapefruit is combined with pronounced grassy notes from the hops in what is described as a “wonderfully balanced serve”.
Distiller Sam Pembridge said: “Exploring an unusual and complex flavour profile such as the English Fuggle hop, whilst maintaining the Hayman’s True English distillation process was an interesting challenge. Being able to create a gin so unique to the category is really exciting!”
Hayman’s Hopped Gin’s suggested serve is the True English G&T, served with a wedge of pink grapefruit.
Just 1,200 hand numbered bottled of Hayman’s True English Hopped Gin have been created.