The weekend is the perfect time to kick back and relax, after all, most of us lead busy lives during the week, so come the weekend, we are well and truly ready to unwind a bit. Lately, it seems the demand for more artisan beverages from real ales to spirits infused with different wonderful wild berry flavours from local areas has dramatically risen. It seems we are all looking for something that little bit different and special and why not?! It is good to shake things up (especially if it's a cocktail!) and try something unique with friends and family. Well, if you are amongst those seeking specially crafted, top quality, artisan produce in your chosen tipple, The Lakes Distillery, opened in December 2014, has got you covered. Nestled in the heart of the Lake District in the picturesque setting of Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria, and surrounded by majestic Lakeland peaks and fells, this unique distillery produces its very own range of The Lakes Gin and Whisky on site, and you can even go on a distillery tour (which I am going on this weekend, as well as going for a fabulous afternoon tea, which I am very excited about and will be blogging soon, so watch this space!). I've been lucky enough to be sent a couple of bottles of their finest drinks along with some super decadent cocktail recipes which I've been trying out and I'm going to show you some of my favourites in this post, so read on for more!...
A Bit Of Background...
The Lakes Distillery is recognised both in the North West and much farther afield as a world class producer of fine spirits. They are even the UK's largest whisky distillery! Among their diverse range, 'The One' Whisky and 'The Lakes Gin' are all time favourites and it's no surprise given that they can be used to create a multitude of fantastic different drinks. The cocktail recipe cards highlight some of the most sumptuous and indulgent cocktails which can be whirled together using The Lakes Distillery's beverages. This bespoke distillery was a dream made into reality by its founder, Paul Currie, who as a child remembers being entranced by the shining copper stills in a distillery which his father took him around. He recognised his dream to open a distillery in 2010 and by 2014 it was a reality. What makes The Lakes Distillery so unique is that they have access to some of the purest water in the entire country and in fact, the world. The distillery uses a water source just 150 yards away from its site, and is a five mile drive (or hike!) away from the ever popular town of Keswick, so it is right on the tourist track, making it a perfect place for an interesting and unique day out. Given the fact that it is located inside a protected National Park where conservation of the countryside is imperative, it has also been constructed in an eco-friendly and nature sensitive manner, meaning it fits in beautifully with its surroundings.
When I think of a Vesper, I immediately think of James Bond! Here's how to create your very own
Vesper
(mixing quantities = for one glass)
Glass, chilled
Ingredients
1 shot of The Lakes Vodka
2 shots of The Lakes Gin
Half a shot of Lillet Blanc
Method
Shake over ice or strain into a chilled glass
I think that this drink oozes sophistication and would be a great one to mix up for a weekend get together with friends.
I've added a lemon garnish as it adds a bit of a eye catching twist and I like that.
You can check out The Lakes Distillery's website and browse their online shop here.
Winter Berry Martini
(mixing quantities = for one glass)
Glass, chilled
Ingredients
50ml The Lakes Vodka
50ml cranberry juice
25ml sweet Vermouth
Dash of Angostura bitters
Method
Combine The Lakes Vodka, cranberry juice, sweet Vermouth and Angostura bitters. Shake and pour over ice (if desired).
Luxurious and rich in winter, crisp and refreshing out on the terrace during the summer.
Shop The Lakes Distillery range here.
I'll be writing another post after my visit this weekend and I am really looking forward to it! The Lake District is one of my favourite places as it has exquisite views and it is a lovely, clean, refreshing place to be. I'll be letting you all know what it's like to go on a tour of a working distillery, as well as blogging my afternoon tea experience and I've heard there are even Lamas in the distillery's grounds, so expect photos!
What're your favourite cocktails using gin and whisky? Be sure to let me know and show me any snaps you take using these fabulous cocktail recipes by tagging me on my Instagram. Cheers! Bilgi x
This post is written in collaboration with The Lakes Distillery - all opinions remain my own
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