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Gin-sing Therapy Relieves Stress

by Darryl Beeson

Though a lover of wine, I often admit to seeking gin-sing therapy to reduce stress in my busy life.  I drink some gin, then I sing a bit.  Then I drink some more gin.  Then I sing some more.  The stress goes away.

"A wise man once said, 'A gin is a gin is a gin - it’s the lime that matters.'  And so it was, for many years," says professor of spirits Mike Webber,  "yes, there were different ways of drinking gin - a Ricky here, a Tom Collins there, and, of course, the sublime martini leading the field.  But the gin itself - well, people had their favorites, but it is doubtful that they could have selected them in a blind taste test." 

Hendrick’s has come along and introduced the concept of peculiarity to the staid, rather conformist world of gin.  This is the first premium white spirit to be introduced by the famous William Grant and Sons, a distiller with over 100 years experience producing some of the world’s finest single malt Scotch whiskies.

“London-based distillers may have cornered gin production up until now,” notes distillery manager Webber.  “But, it’s time for the Scots to show what a fine gin should taste like.  After all, what’s London have over the Highlands when it comes to distilling?”

It’s true that no other gin tastes like Hendrick’s, a fact that is borne out in taste tests, which indicate that only 1 out of 1000 gin drinkers prefer Hendrick’s.  "Not a good average, you say?  This gentlemen at Hendrick’s beg to differ.  Most people shrink away from what is odd,” offers Webber  “But there are those who seek it, individuals who are truly excited by what is different.  Hendrick’s is for them.

Why is Hendrick’s peculiar; coriander, juniper, citrus peel, rose petals, and a curious but marvelous infusion of cucumber.  Yes, cucumber.  This eclectic combination of flavors achieves a resounding balance that delights difference-seeking individuals and leaves them, perhaps, dissatisfied with typical gins. 

A second reason for Hendrick’s peculiarity can be found in its country of origin:  Scotland.  Yes, the land of the 'wee dram', the kilt, the peaty treat, the single-highland-malt-Scotch-whisky is also the home of the free and brave ginmakers at Hendrick’s.  But then, the Scots have always been known for their, some say, eccentricity.

A third reason for Hendrick’s peculiarity comes from its production process.  Hendrick’s is made in hand-crafted small batches in Girvan, Scotland.  Brought to life in column stills, distillery manager Mike Webber infuses this elixir with seven distinct botanicals.  It is then exported to the United States by Scotland’s own William Grant & Sons, where it retails for $27.99 - a small price to pay for a gin so unique.

A final word from the sly, shy Mister Webber concerning how to enjoy the particular pleasures of this peculiar gin. "Hendrick’s is wonderful chilled straight up or on the rocks, but Hendrick’s lovers also speak rapturously of its backbone, a forthright strength that makes it perfect in a mixed drink topped with a slice of cucumber.  Hold the lime."  Scotty, beam me aboard.

The gin comes in an attractive black glass, apothecary styled bottle.  Such a bottle is perfect for storing good olive oil, perhaps adding a pour spout.  The dark glass keeps the oil from oxidizing as quickly.  My plan is for next Christmas, I will buy some very good olive oil in bulk and pour in to rinsed, empty bottles of Hendricks gin.  Maybe I'll tie a bow on these unique, dare say peculiar, gifts to give.  A marvelous holiday gift and the only challenge being that I must keep drinking more Hendricks gin.

Darryl Beeson travels the world looking for great food, wine and travel finds.  He has been quoted, in recent months, in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Detroit News, as well as InStyle and Smart Money Magazines regarding his insights to wine and food.

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