The Production Process
How the magic happens
In the 12th century, gin was known as aqua vita – the water of life, when it was used for medicinal purposes. Following the English Glorious Revolution of 1688 gin became popular because French brandy imports were restricted. Today, the market is booming with artisan distilleries producing fantastic quality unique handcrafted brands.
Neutral grain spirit is a blank canvas to which carefully selected botanicals are added. The flavours are absorbed like a sponge during expert distillation through a hybrid column still.
Our gin recipe has been perfected over several years with each small batch distilled to ensure its purity and quality – exactly the way a small batch craft gin should be. To preserve the maximum flavour with a rich and robust mouthfeel, you may notice a pearlescent ‘louche’ when you add ice or tonic.
Louching is a term for when a clear spirit turns cloudy, milky or opaque. It is sometimes known as the ‘Ouzo effect’ or hazing and occurs with other spirits like Sambuca and Absinthe. The term louche comes from the Latin word ‘luscus’, meaning ‘blind in one eye’ or ‘having poor sight’.
Because of the high level of botanicals, this is caused by the precipitation of essential oils from the juniper and fresh citrus peel when diluted with water, causing a cloudy effect as an emulsion is formed. This unlocks the power of the botanicals and makes your G&T abound with flavour and character.
Many distillers use less botanicals or chill filter their gins to remove some of the essential oils to prevent this, but we want you to enjoy the full flavour without compromise.
The dictionary definition of ‘louche’ is a person or place is that is unconventional and not respectable, but often in a way that people find rather attractive! The Hounds might be unconventional but are certainly unique and you can’t help but love them!
Release the Hounds! Release the Mist! Release the Taste!