GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall

GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall. On first impressions, entering Downham Hall, turning off Castleton Road, Downham Essex via a private road. The property from outside is very striking, with ample parking. The property has loving been renovated by its new owns Andrew and Christina. (to a very high standard).

The GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall started at 7.30 pm till 11 pm, a unique night, with fun and laughter, would totally recommend! I’m going to be trying out their afternoon tea next month.

You can find more information on Downham Hall Events on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/399191397175843/

Walking through the stunning, unique white wooden double doors, into a reception area. The interior at Downham Hall is in keeping with the property, with its clean lines – and a modern twist.

Christina, stood in the reception area waiting to greet people. As they came through the door, she then guided them to the conservatory. Where people could have a drink, of their choosing. At their bar, before having to sit down for the Tasting (prices are very reasonable). Nothing was too much for the team at Downham Hall. (I had a lovely glass of chardonnay).

GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall

The gin industry is booming, its resurgence in the UK. The Gin Tasting could be a fabulous way to experience. The hosting room for the Tasting could not have been any more perfect. With food on the tables to have at your own leisure. (It was a full house).

Taking your sit of choice, in front of you on the table were six different Gins. Along with an information sheet of the Gins Explaining, what, where, prices etc about the gins, that we were drinking that night.

The ESSEX WINE SCHOOL was hosting the event, with David our very own expert on the Gins.

GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall

The 6 Gins & My Thoughts

1. PICKERINGS GIN – Launched in 2013, this gin was the first new Gin distillery in Edinburgh in 150 years. – For me, this Gin was a little heavy tasted and become more enjoyable, when adding the Tonic Water with Pink Grapefruit zest. MAJESTIC £29.70  GARNISH – PINK GRAPEFRUIT.

2. JENSON’S OLD TOM GIN – Old Tom is a Traditional style Gin – rich in history. The name Old Tom Gin purportedly came from wooden plaques shaped like a black cat (an “Old Tom”) mounted on the outside wall of some pubs above a public walkway in 18th-century England. An easier Gin to drink, with just adding a lime slice  M&S £26.00 GARNISH – LIME SLICE.

3. PEAKY BLINDERS SPICED GIN – In England’s famous ‘Black Country’, the Sadler family have been purveyors of the finest beers and, spirits since 1900. Over a century’s worth of knowledge and passion has led the family to create this bold, small batch, handcrafted spiced gin, blended with exotic spices and botanicals. Amazing taste, very fruity, I would drink with ice.  MASTEROFMALT £20.95. GARNISH – ORANGE SLICE.

4. TARQUINS HANDCRAFTED CORNISH GIN – The first Gin to be distilled in Cornwall for over 100 years. Tarquin’s Dry Gin is a contemporary take on the classic London Dry. 12 botanicals are used in its production, with Devon violets and fresh citrus zest dominating. This light, floral, easy drinking Gin. I loved this Gin with Tonic Water.  AMAZON £31.75. GARNISH – MINT

5. UNGAVA CANADIAN GIN –  Made with indigenous Canadian herbs bring your senses out of hibernation Ungava Bay. A vast territory in the Canadian Arctic is an unspoiled region, of startling landscapes and extreme climate. Ungava Gin, crafted in small batches, capture this wild beauty with a blend of 100% natural ingredients. That gives it its captivating aroma and intriguing colour. Absolutely great without tonic to spoil its amazing taste.  Whiskey EXCHANGE £32.45. GARNISH – LEMON ZEST.

6. JJ WHITELEY VIOLET GIN – Violet has become a particularly popular flavour within the world of gin, and J.J. Whitley has wasted no time joining in on the fun by launching their very own Violet Gin! The eponymous floral element is combined with a selection of eight additional botanicals along with the lines of juniper, coriander, licorice, and angelica, and it boasts a pleasing pink hue. This was the best Gin for me. MASTEROFMALT £21.00. GARNISH PINK GRAPEFRUIT.

The whole evening was very interesting, learning about the Gins we drank. My head was a little sore the next day, but totally worth it. I’m hoping Christina and Andrew will host another boozy evening soon!

For more information on the wonderful Downham Hall please visit their link below to the website: https://www.downhamhall.com/

Thank you for taking the time to read my post. GIN TASTING NIGHT – at Downham Hall.

You may enjoy reading my other post on the Punch Bowl:  http://lovelifelavish.com/2018/08/06/the-punch-bowl-in-high-easter/