Hendrick’s Gin’s latest libation brings new meaning to a botanical bouquet.
The Plus Ones were invited to experience the deeply floral world of their small-batch limited edition release ‘Midsummer Solstice’ ‘ — it’s Hendrick’s newest gin in 20 years, and a product of the imaginings of Master Distiller Ms. Lesly Gracie.
If I described the taste in a few words, it’d be light, playful, and crisp. ‘Midsummer Solstice’ is what I call a ‘creeper,’ which is to say – it’s so refreshing to the senses, you can easily have about five spritzes before you realise you’re delightfully boozed.
At the official launch party hosted at Paddo Inn (affectionately named ‘Paddo Ginn’ for the evening), my guest and I enjoyed a series of ‘Midsummer Solstice’ itirations. The first concoction was a too-easy-to-drink, delicious ‘Midsummer Solstice Spritz’, served with a wedge of orange. Our second drink was a classic Misummer Gin and Tonic, served with none other than its signature cucumber pairing. Our final drink didn’t mess around – it was a very stiff gin martini (sans olive), which artfully showcased the wickedly crisp character of the drink.
The launch party featured gigantic and elaborate floral installations, complementing the delicate lavender notes in Hendrick’s new gin. Replete with a novelty tarot card reader, a duo of musicians playing tunes of old world charm — guests enjoyed canapés and drinks, while a magician showed off some tricks.
Get in quick to buy this small batch, which I see flying off the shelves for spring and transeasonal brunches. It’s a great way to usher in the warmer months. Like the solstice itself, this release is fleeting.
Otherwise, you can try out the botanical bouquet for yourself. For the weekend of 5-6 October, Hendrick’s will host a dedicated ‘gin exchange’ platform: ‘Stem for a Spritz’ — where you can pick up a stem from Victoriana characters frolicking around Surry Hills, Bondi and Paddington and swap your stem to receive a free Hendricks Midsummer Solstice Spritz at a participating venue, including:
- The Winery, Surry Hills
- Bucket List, Bondi Beach
- Paddo Inn, Paddington
Raise a glass to the time of year when nature’s most vivid blooms flourish, ‘Midsummer Solstice’ is flirtatiously floral, and reminds me of all the mischief that awaits in the summer. Let the drinking be-GIN!
– Jill
Jill is a Sydney-based journalist who drinks by the logic: it’s five o’clock somewhere. Follow her on Instagram.
On the weekend 5-6 October, East Sydney will transform the meaning behind a botanical bouquet. Take your stem to a participating venue and swap your stem for a Midsummer Solstice Spritz. For more information, visit the Hendrick’s ‘Midsummer Solstice’ website.
