Though Hendrick’s Gin was first released by William Grant & Sons in 1999, the history of the two stills that make it a delightfully distinctive drink stretches back much further indeed. Hendrick’s is made using a marriage of spirits from a Carter-Head Still (made in 1948) and a small pot still crafted by Bennet, Sons & Shears in 1860 - both were bought by Charles Gordon, great grandson of William Grant, in the 1960s.
Hendrick’s Gin itself was created by Grant’s Malt Master David Stewart and Hendrick’s Gin Master Distiller Lesley Gracie, using the spirit from both stills and an intriguing selection of botanicals, including yarrow, cubeb berries, elderflower and more. To this, they also infuse Bulgarian rose and cucumber - as such, you’ll likely see a Hendrick’s Gin & Tonic served with a slice of cucumber rather than some sort of citrus fruit.
For more information, check out our Hendrick's blog posts.