Eco-friendly producer Colegrove Estates has two lovely gins and a violet vermouth in its portfolio, all from Ireland.
1. Kilroy Ginger Gin
Founded by Christy Katan and his brother Ciaran, Kilroy is an award-winning gin produced by the Brothers From View (artists for the likes of Paul McCartney and U2).
Made in a 200-year-old family distillery at Kinlough, Kilroy Ginger Gin is infused with Irish ginger, and just added a new kind of juniper twist: you can add vanilla to the pot. A wonderfully fruity, refreshing gin, it’s currently on sale at Selfridges and Amazon.
2. Corsair Gin
Inspired by whiskey, Corsair Gin is a highly unusual combination of spiced Irish whisky, herbal juices and rare organic herbs that creates a unique blend.
It’s sold at the legendary George Inness Market Hotel bar in the Traveller’s Rest district of Cork, Ireland.
3. Killstroke Irish Gin
A festival favourite, Killstroke Irish Gin is produced by Killstroke Distillery on the Isle of Skye, in the Outer Hebrides.
Raw malted barley is cut, fermented and pressed on the island to make this award-winning gin, which has a golden amber hue and a velvet nose.
The dry, floral and slightly smoky flavour has a pleasant lime smokiness as well as an unusual green hint. But don’t be put off: Killstroke has only just received kudos from their Scottish colleagues from Islay for the Gin of the Year at the European Gin Awards.
4. Murray Bridge Distillery’s new Raspberries and Hazelnut Vodka
Murray Bridge has used real raspberries, home grown Hazelnut and Canadian, for their new vodka. Our Vodka expert, Simone Goodkind, rates it as a great mix, “with a smooth, creamy texture and it tastes fresh and friendly, with a hint of subtle sweetness.” It’s only available at Superdry, and online.
5. Oncero Organic Blue Label Rum
Remember Kiltiltinner? If you don’t, let me quickly guide you back. A simple, wooden distillery in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone has a range of local rums, made from recycled tin and used oak, and their Organic Blue Label rum is a favourite with the local locals.
Made from local rums, they can be topped up with one of their other rums, or even the acclaimed Kerrymans River rum, without breaking the bank.