Hayman’s Release Competition Winner’s ‘True English Hopped Gin’

Hayman’s True English Hopped Gin was created in collaboration with 2018 True Taste Competition winner Jordan Sweeney

Hayman’s of London today unveiled their first limited edition ‘Bartender Release’ gin – Hayman’s True English Hopped.

The new liquid was created in collaboration with bartender Jordan Sweeney, winner of Hayman’s True Taste competition in 2018. Sweeney’s prize consisted of a five day distilling apprenticeship under master distiller Christopher Hayman, along with the chance to create his own signature gin, and it is this ‘Bartender Release’ that becomes available today.

Along with Hayman’s signature blend of ten botanicals, Sweeney chose to add fresh grapefruit and both English Fuggle and Goldings hops to his gin. English Fuggle was introduced to the UK at around the same time Christopher Hayman’s great grandfather entered the gin business, making it a tasty and historically apt addition. Bright citrus from the grapefruit, and grassy notes from the hops, combine to create a “wonderfully balanced serve.”

Distiller Sam Pembridge describes the process of making Hayman’s True English Hopped: “Exploring an unusual and complex flavour profile such as the English Fuggle hop, whilst maintaining the Hayman’s True English distillation process was an interesting challenge. Being able to create a gin so unique to the category is really exciting.”

The Hayman’s True Taste competition is running again in 2019, with entries open until April 30th. When asked about the experience of winning the competition and working with the Hayman family, Jordan Sweeney said: “The knowledge you gain during the apprenticeship is the prize. I’ve had the chance to get hands on experience in a working distillery with true professionals. It is incredible that one of the most respected gin companies will be selling my very own gin. I cannot wait to see the reaction to it, especially from fellow bartenders and others I respect in the industry.”

To enter the True Taste competition, and potentially follow in Jordan Sweeney’s footsteps and create your own Bartender Release Gin, click here.

Hayman’s True English Hopped is now available to buy from the Hayman’s Distillers website.