Gin and Juice
Raise a Glass to Ginuary: Celebrating Kent’s Finest Gin Distillers
As the festive glow of December fades, January brings with it the promise of fresh starts and new adventures. For gin lovers, it also marks the arrival of Ginuary — a month dedicated to celebrating all things gin. If you’re looking to embrace this spirited tradition, there’s no better place to start than in Kent, the “Garden of England,” home to some of the UK’s most innovative gin distillers. Among these are two standout producers: Greensand Ridge and Anno Distillers.
Greensand Ridge Distillery: Sustainability in Every Sip
Nestled in the heart of Kent, Greensand Ridge Distillery is a pioneer of sustainable distilling. Their ethos is simple: minimise environmental impact while crafting exceptional spirits. By using surplus produce from local farms, such as apples that would otherwise go to waste, Greensand Ridge creates gins that are as eco-friendly as they are delicious.
Their signature London Dry Gin is a testament to the region’s natural bounty, infused with botanicals like cobnuts, gorse flowers, and hawthorn berries. Each sip offers a vibrant taste of Kent’s countryside, with a smooth finish that’s perfect for both classic gin and tonics or more adventurous cocktails.
If you’re keen to learn more about their sustainable practices, Greensand Ridge also offers distillery tours and gin-making experiences, where you can craft your own bespoke gin under the guidance of their expert team.
Anno Distillers: Science Meets Spirit
Founded by two scientists with a shared passion for innovation, Anno Distillers brings a unique perspective to gin production. Based in Marden, this award-winning distillery combines traditional techniques with cutting-edge science to create gins that stand out from the crowd.
Anno’s flagship 60% ABV gin, “Anno Extreme 60,” packs a punch while maintaining a delicate balance of botanicals, including samphire, hops, and elderflower. For those seeking something lighter, their Kent Dry Gin offers a crisp, citrus-forward profile that’s ideal for any occasion.
One of Anno’s most remarkable achievements is their bespoke vacuum distillation process, which allows them to extract flavours at lower temperatures, preserving the delicate nuances of their carefully selected botanicals. Visitors to the distillery can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at this innovative process during one of their interactive tours.
Where to Find These Kentish Gems
Both Greensand Ridge and Anno Distillers are committed to making their gins accessible to enthusiasts near and far. Their products are available online, in local shops, and at select bars and restaurants across Kent and beyond. For those eager to sample their offerings, keep an eye out for gin tastings and events hosted throughout the region during Ginuary.
A Toast to Kent’s Gin Heritage
Ginuary is the perfect excuse to explore the incredible craftsmanship of Kent’s gin distillers. Whether you’re drawn to Greensand Ridge’s eco-conscious creations or Anno’s scientific flair, there’s no shortage of inspiration to fill your glass. So, why not raise a toast to Kent this January and discover the distinctive flavours that make its gins truly unforgettable?
Cheers to Ginuary!