Why am I sipping gin at work at 3 p.m., you ask? It's all in the name of research. After gin got a millennial pink makeover this Summer [1], we've been obsessed with hunting down the next big thing; and who knew there were so many options available? The days of a classic G&T are over, because these gins take things to the next level. Step forward for eight amazing tipples that'll up your Summer cocktail game, from a chocolate-infused offering to sparkly Unicorn gin [2] (yes, really), and some delicious fruity finds we're already topping with Prosecco.
Bullards Strawberry and Black Pepper Norwich Gin
Pink gin really came into its own during the Summer of 2017, and though we enjoyed experimenting with the pretty spirit [3], we're ready for a twist. Where better to turn than Bullards, the distillery responsible for making what was recently voted the best London Dry gin in the world? Bullards Strawberry and Black Pepper Norwich Gin [4] (£38) is the perfect way to take pink gin into Winter; the addition of black pepper gives this small-batch British gin a unique kick, but the strawberry flavour means it still has the sweetness we all know and love. Mix it with tonic, cucumber, and berries, for the ultimate twist on the G&T.
That Boutique-y Gin Company Spit-Roasted Pineapple Gin
How to make gin even better? Add pineapple! Apparently, pineapple gin was famous in the '20s but lost favour over the years (when pineapple went on to be paired with rum). The brave will drink this Spit-Roasted Pineapple Gin [5] (£29.95) neat over ice; the sweetness of the pineapple makes that possible, though it's really strong in gin flavour too, meaning you'll only want a small amount. Swap your festive Baileys for a dash of this instead; you'll be surprised how warming it is. Alternatively, it's the perfect base for cocktails, or (as recommended on the bottle) top it up with Ting or Lilt for a tropical treat.
Masons Dry Yorkshire Gin Tea Edition
Tea-lovers, this one's for you! The addition of Yorkshire tea to this dry gin gives it a surprising and very pleasant smooth, sweet note. Masons Dry Yorshire Gin Tea Edition [6] (£33) would make an amazing gift for any tea fan, or indeed any proud Yorkshireman. Masons also makes a Lavender edition, which is a brilliant base for floral gin cocktails.
Slingsby Yorkshire Rhubarb Gin
Clearly there's something in the water in Yorkshire, as Slingsby is another Yorkshire gin brand creating some truly lovely experimental gins. Slingsby Rhubard Gin [7] (£39.99) is so smooth you could drink it neat, but it comes to life when mixed in creative cocktails [8], or served topped up with Prosecco. The beautiful packaging (including a pretty frosted bottle) make this a great gift option too.
Unicorn Tears Gin Liquer
Described as "A mythical spirit made from the tears of humanely raised Unicorns", this one is definitely best drunk with your tongue firmly in your cheek. Unicorn Tears Gin Liqueur [9] (£39.99) gets its flavour from citrus fruits, juniper berries, coriander, and liquorice. The liquid itself is full of tiny shimmering particles, as befits its origins. Just one question: how do they make the unicorns cry?
Cruxland Gin
Know someone who loves a bit of luxury? Buy them a bottle of Cruxland Gin [10] (£30) a South African export that contains Kalahari truffles. Yep, we had to look them up too, and they are indeed desert versions of the prized funghi you know and can't afford. But don't worry, this gin doesn't end up tasting like pasta. The truffle is subtle, combined with rooibos, aniseed, and a number of other botanicals to create an earthy, spicy flavour. It's must try for all gin enthusiasts and is particularly good at this time of year.
Collagin
Yep, someone had added collagen to gin and given it exactly the name you'd expect! Though the product doesn't claim to be antiageing, it will no doubt intrigue anyone who loves both skin care and booze (*raises hand*) as collagen continues to be one of the buzziest ingredients when it comes to youthful-looking skin. Novelty-aside, Collagin [11] (£34.99) is a really nice gin. 11 botanicals, including liquorice, orris root, and orange give this its warm, rich flavour. The creators suggest mixing it with tonic, vanilla bitters, and a slice of pink grapefruit.
Xolato Chocolate Gin
From the cocoa beans that decorate the bottle to the deep chocolate aftertaste, this is a gin that chocoholics will love. But don't expect Xolato Chocolate Gin [12] (£37) to be a syrupy, sweet confection. It's still gin, just with warm vanilla and chocolate notes. Add orange for a subtle homage to the jaffa cake!