In this mini April heatwave we’re having, quite alien to us in the north, and given the circumstances, it’s important that time in the garden is time well spent! And how brilliantly British to sip away on what could be claimed to be almost a national drink – the venerable Gin & Tonic!

We’re blessed here in the Highlands to have ridden the gin boom wave over the last decade, and can boast in our opinion some of the most original and delicious gin’s on the market. Biased? Of course! If it’s from from the Highlands we love to sample it and we can buy it from our deli Corner on the Square!

Not forgetting the all important accompanyment – tonic. Walter Gregor’s is the Scottish go to premium tonic. Made in Aberdeenshire and highlighting mint tones, it adds a delightful and unique taste to your G&T.

An honorable mention also to our stag horn bottle opener maker Hugh (Instagram @p.i.c.a.d.a.e). Sustainable use of all all the bi products of one of Scotland’s much loved meats. We send Hugh the antler from some of the local estates we work with and he makes various handmade sticks and accessories for us. Thanks Hugh!

Below are Nic and John’s top three gins in no particular order.

KINRARA GIN

Family owned and set in the Cairngorm National Park, Kinrara gin is fruity and floral. Using water, foraged berrries and flora from the mountains above, it’s a lovely smooth gin, with a long subtle orange and juniper finish.
 
HARRIS GIN
 
From the western Isles comes one of their best summer exports in our opinion! Delicious distinctive taste, using sugar kelp as part of the recipe along with 8 carefully selected botanicals. It’s smooth, complex and refreshing and captures the maritime nature of the island.
 
ROCK ROSE GIN
 
From the rugged north coast comes this cracker. Privately owned and family run, Martin & Claire have come up with a much celebrated local recipe! The nose is delicate, the palate fruity, with a snotty but lingering lemon sherbet finish. I want one now!