Gin has been produced since the Middle Ages and takes its name from the Dutch word for juniper, which is ‘genever’. It is widely believed that the phrase ‘Dutch Courage’ refers to gin as the specific drink needed to bolster one’s courage. The UK’s love affair with gin reached its peak during the 18th century ‘Gin Craze’ when the parliament had to pass five major Acts, all designed to control the consumption of grain-based alcohols. Our appetite for gin has never faded with more bottles being sold than ever before. In this blog post, we will shine a light on the innovative Cornish Distillers who have used their passion and knowledge to create truly unique and delicious gin.

Atlantic Distillery

Atlantic Distillery began making award-winning spirits at their 18th Century farmhouse in 2016. Their inspiration comes from their surroundings, the stunning North Cornwall coastline. Proud to be Cornwall’s only Soil Association Certified Organic Spirits producer, they are passionate about using home-grown produce. We stock a fantastic range of their gin which is all made using 100% organic botanicals and are gently distilled on a traditional copper bain-marie pot still using their own freshly drawn water.

Cornish Rock Gin

Based in North Cornwall, Cornish Rock Gin is distilled by hand in small batches by a team of artisans who meticulously check every batch. Made using pure spring water from their deep water source, fragrant botanicals and fresh citrus fruits, their fantastic selection of gin includes the distinctive Pink Cornish Rock Gin. Fresh and zingy, this gin is finished off with red Champagne grapes and blended with sparkling Champagne.

Tarquin’s Cornish Gin

Produced at the Southwestern Distillery in Wadebridge, Tarquin’s Cornish Gin is a small-batch, craft gin produced by a classically trained chef from the Cordon Bleu in Paris. Inspired by the Wild Cornish Coast, Tarquin’s Gin champions going back to basics by using traditional techniques, quality ingredients & old-fashioned equipment. Tarquin’s Dry Gin is a modern take on a classic London Dry Gin. It is distilled with 12 carefully selected botanicals including fresh citrus peel and handpicked violets. 

Fowey Valley 

Established in 2012, Fowey Valley is well known for its award-winning cider. Created out of a small orchard and idyllic outbuilding in Golant near the town of Fowey, Cornwall, they launched their new small-batch Foy Gin at the Fowey Xmas market in 2017. It is a "classic, velvety, aromatic gin. Juniper led, with floral notes a round body and just a hint of fragrant spice". The gin is distilled five times from Fowey Valley's own alcohol in batches of 200 litres, using copper pot stills.

If you have tempted by anything you have read, then take a look at our full range of gin here. Our fantastic selection of gin hampers has been expertly arranged by Cornish connoisseurs. We have also produced a guide to Cornish Cider makers which can be found here.


Post By Rosie Burnman