Found in the western Pentland Hills, Tarbraxus Distillers is home to the award-winning Pentland Hills Gin. The company was created by Phil and Tabatha who set about delivering a first-class gin in as sustainable a fashion as possible. The gin reflects the life they live in the hills; first up, however, you have to meet Panza, the chocolate Labrador who is the CEO (well he likes to think he is!). The Company’s original gin is distilled using 9 botanical some of which are grown around the farm. Double distilled in a copper still called Amy the gin offers a very smooth impression on first sipping. For some the taste of citrus will emerge, for others maybe a hint of aniseed or cocoa. This 40% abv gin is full of surprises, served with pink grapefruit it makes a delicious g&t. In a martini – the gin offers the perfect 007 moment. The gin is also offered at Navy Strength – 58% abv. Despite this big mouthful of alcohol, it is remarkably smooth and can be happily sipped naked! As a g&t it offers hints of toffee and citrus, for the adventurous try mixing a Vesper – you won’t be disappointed. Sustainability drives Phil and Tabatha’s ethos. The distillery uses solar energy, water rises on the land and juniper has been planted to help the regeneration of the berry which is key to all gin distillation. Perhaps the greatest innovation is the ‘bottle for life’ approach to the way the gin is sold. You buy your first etched bottle and it is marked with your personal number. When it’s time to replace the gin you post is back (there is also a drop box at the farm). Even better your gin bottle can be switched from Original to Navy gin and back as you wish. As Panza says ‘it’s a woofingly good idea!’ The gin is produced in tiny qualities (500 litres in 2019) so if you’re lucky enough to own a bottle enjoy every drop and then have it refilled by people who really care about how they create and deliver your tipple.