Tasting Notes: Black Powder Sidelock (Ocean Dry Subscription June 2020)
June’s Cargo: Black Powder Sidelock, Lamb & Watt Tonics, Grapefruit, Rose Petals and Red Grapefruit
Phwoarhhh, that’s a nice picture! That’s because it was taken by Nik Bryant Photography
Dear Shipmates,
Welcome to the smugglers club. I hope you enjoy your booty - you deserve it! In the months ahead, I’ll be delivering you delicious and interesting gins from around the country and beyond. I’ve voyaged far and wide meeting distillers, watching them work and tasting their wares. Now I’m looking forward to bringing my favourites to you.
This month’s bottle, Black Powder Sidelock Gin comes from Preese Hall Farm in Weedon, near Preston, owned by the Loftus family for over a century. The current farmer John began using ingredients from his orchards, infusing them to create refreshing fruit gins.
In 2017 John’s son in-law, Tony, launched Black Powder and Sidelock is now a celebrated and acclaimed London Dry gin which has won prestigious awards.
So what is it like? I would always recommend you indulge in a small unmixed measure to acquaint yourself with a splendid new gin.
Sidelock is made using 28 botanicals skillfully blended to create a complex yet accessible flavour. Pour some into your glass and inhale the vapours to enjoy the spiced bouquet- an almost menthol aroma from the cloves.
Now take a sip and let those complex flavours unfold. First to reach your palate is the fresh, citrus tang of lemon followed closely by robust floral and herbal tones of rose petals, chamomile and fennel. Earthy notes of spicy calamus and clove provide a warming afterglow with a surprisingly subtle hint of juniper.
Formal introductions made, you’re now ready to mingle with your tonic of choice but let’s not be too hasty. Gradually add your mixer taking care not to overwhelm the flavours.
Add a garnish or two from my bespoke selection to complement the flavours and enhance the experience. Red Grapefruit accentuates the citrus flavours when a strip of zest or juicy slice is added to your glass, fragrant rose petals highlight the floral notes and peppery juniper berries underscore the spicy astringency of the gin.
Thank you for reading this missive. Time is short, my voyage must now continue but we shall speak again next month.
The Captain