Spirit at new distillery is gin-tastic

THEODORE is a new Scottish gin powered by the spirit of the Picts, an ancient tribe that once settled near the brand’s home in the northern Highlands.

Following the limited edition batch, Theodore Gin will be the first spirit produced at the new Ardross Distillery, which will be in operation from autumn 2019. Set in a remote location, deep in the Highlands, the distillery will be housed within the ruins of a 19th-century farmhouse.

Featuring 16 botanicals, including pomelo, pine, damask rose, honey and oolong tea, Theodore Gin is a fresh and elegant gin with a floral heart and warm, rich finish. It is Scottish by birth and Pictish by nature.

It is crafted by two Master Distillers – one French and one English – with guidance from olfactory expert and perfume designer, Barnabé Fillion, who has brought a contemporary, Pictish approach to the distilling process.

Theodore’s initial top note is of elegant, citric pomelo and crisp pine needles that evoke the scent of fresh grass. As the top notes give way, honey ushers in a floral heart of Damask rose and oolong tea.

Both fresh and dried ginger have been used to create Theodore Gin. Fresh ginger brings woody warmth, enhancing the flavours of pomelo and adding complex layers of flavour, while dry ginger brings forward a powdery spiciness.

Base notes of bourbon vetiver add a smoky, woody aroma with hints of vanilla, and oolong tea delivers further green notes to complement the citrus and pine. The distinctive combination has a long finish on the palate, with delicate rose returning in waves.

Theodore de Bry was a 16th-century engraver who brought the Picts to life through his art. While he had never met a Pict, his representations powerfully captured their intrepid identity. Inspired by his drawings, Theodore Gin followed in his footsteps by commissioning their own Pictish illustrations, which meant it was only right to give him some credit.

Theodore Gin is presented in a beautiful bespoke bottle and box which features the artwork of the Picts and the 16 botanicals that were commissioned from illustrator Carlotta Saracco.

Founder, Barth Barthelemy Brosseau, said: “We have collaborated with an eclectic team of individuals who are pushing boundaries in their respective fields to create something special. While not much is known for sure about the Picts, we enjoy that sense of mystery.

“Their magnificent body-paint and talent as craftsmen may seem at odds with their alleged fierce nature, but we appreciate this inherent duality. Theodore pays tribute to this dualism with a bold and characterful gin that embodies the Pictish spirit and it is for anyone who is looking to whet a curious appetite.”

For more information visit Theodore-gin.com

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