The Garden of England

King Henry VIII was so impressed by the fruits of Kent, that he named it “The Garden of England”. For centuries these delicious soft fruits were harvested in traditional wicker baskets known locally as a “Kipsi”.

At the Maidstone Distillery we prefer to follow natural processes wherever we can. Our intention is to create great tasting spirits using traditional as well as innovative processes and offer an exceptional drinking experience.

The pink gin category is the second most popular category to that of traditional gin, it’s name was inspired by a historical reference to a pink gin cocktail made popular during the 19th century that simply comprised of gin and angostura bitters, which gave the drink it’s pink colour.

Today, pink gins are best described as an approachable route for any drinks enthusiast into the vibrant and exciting gin category. We wanted to take this concept and create something altogether different, with a distinct and delightful flavour. Our special pink gin was born from two separate ideas; one to create a barrel aged spirit and the other to explore the category of pink gin.

Kipis Rosé gin uses an unusual selection of fruity botanicals to create a base spirit that has a naturally sweeter and fruitier range. Our vision was a traditionally distilled spirit that didn’t use artificial flavourings or sweeteners. At the time of developing this product we were also experimenting with a barrel aged spirit. Barrel aging has been used for hundreds of years to impart colour and flavour to spirit through the wood. From the oak barrels we get compounds such as vanillin which impart vanilla notes, lactones which add creamy flavours and tannins which impart spice and texture.

Barrel aged gin, whilst not totally alone, is new and yet steeping our barrel aged Kipsi gin with red fruits is totally unique.

Kipsi Rosé Gin is distilled with a distinct selection of fruity botanicals before being barrel aged in ex-Bourbon oak casks to add creamy notes of sweet vanilla and delicate spice. Finally blended with Kentish Morellos, Dark Cherries, Strawberries and Raspberries to create a remarkably flavoursome and sophisticated rosé gin.

Kipsi Rosé Gin is best served with premium tonic water and garnished with soft fruits.