Hayman's Sloe Gin

Harvey Nichols Wine Shops will launch Hayman's Sloe Gin, a traditional English liqueur which has previously only been available for private use. Made to a long standing recipe, from the oldest gin distilling family in the UK, this fabulously versatile gin has a ruby red colour and intense smooth flavour.

This gin is made by steeping the English native sloe berry, a type of wild plum which comes from the blackthorn tree, for several months with Hayman's Gin which is blended with natural sugars to give the drink its distinctive flavour.

This great cocktail cabinet addition can be used to make a number of classic drinks, including The Blackthorn, which first appeared in the 1800's. First, mix Hayman's Sloe Gin and sweet vermouth (2:3 parts) over ice. Strain into cocktail glasses, add a twist of lemon and serve.

To make the more modern sloe gin drink, the aptly named 'The Wibble', shake equal measures of dry gin, Hayman's Sloe Gin and grapefruit juice over ice. Add a squeeze of lemon and a dash of blackberry flavoured Crème de Mure liqueur. Serve in a chilled martini glass. Alternatively, Hayman's Sloe Gin makes a perfect digestif served straight.

Hayman's Sloe Gin is now available exclusively at Harvey Nichols Wine Shops nationwide priced at £21.50 for 70cl.