Ableforth’s Bathtub Gin – Sloe Gin

Tasting Notes of the Curator

From the first pour, the ruby hue promises intensity—and it delivers. Aromas of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and plum rise first, mingling with crushed juniper, clove, and a hint of marzipan. The texture is syrupy but not sticky, holding a rich weight on the tongue that develops into a burst of tartness—red currant and damson jam layered over classic Bathtub warmth. The use of real sloe berries macerated for months gives this gin its deep, natural fruitiness without resorting to artificial sweetness. Cardamom, orange peel, and subtle woody notes round it out, lending dimension and complexity beyond the typical liqueur. It drinks like a gin-wrapped forest fruit compote—ripe, dark, and endlessly sip-worthy. This is a spirit that calls for long evenings and thoughtful moments, whether neat by candlelight or remixed into something bold.

Pairings and Suggestions

Here’s how to best enjoy this richly fruited spirit, whether curled up fireside or toasting to late summer sunsets:

• Sloe Royale with Sparkling Wine – Tart fruit meets effervescence for a celebratory aperitif.
• Sloe Negroni with Sweet Vermouth and Campari – A twist that leans into bitterness and dark fruit.
• Dark Chocolate Ganache Tart – The rich cocoa and pastry base complement the gin’s berry and spice profile.
• Spiced Duck Breast with Blackberry Jus – A savoury, layered dish that brings out the gin’s woodland character.
• Aged Manchego and Fig Jam – Sweet and savoury with textural contrast that plays beautifully with the spirit’s velvety weight.

The Slow Elegance of Sloe

Sloe gin is an old English tradition, and Ableforth’s version elevates it to modern brilliance. Real sloe berries—tiny, tart relatives of the plum—are steeped for months in their award-winning Bathtub Gin, extracting colour, depth, and complexity. The result is not a sugary afterthought, but a spirit that retains its gin core while expanding into a luscious, fruit-laced experience. This sloe gin has not gone unnoticed: it won Master at the Global Spirits Masters, and received high praise from critics for its balance and purity of fruit. It’s more than a seasonal treat—it’s an all-year companion for anyone who appreciates a fruit-forward gin that doesn’t forget its roots.

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool, dark place. Once opened, seal tightly. No refrigeration required, but enjoy within several months for best fruit intensity.