Hotham's Handcrafted Gin

Hotham’s Gin School and Distillery is located in Hepworth’s Arcade, in the Old Town of Hull. Gin lovers are able to visit the Distillery not only to buy bottles of Hotham’s Gin, but also to join in a unique experience day where they will learn about the history of gin, botanicals and the gin making process, finally distilling their own unique bottle of gin to take home.

Founders Emma and Simon met over a G&T back in January 2017. Their shared love of gin inspired their first date at a gin school in the Midlands, where they were inspired to think about developing their own gin recipe. After a year of learning about the gin making process, and experimenting with recipes, they launched a micro-distillery, Hotham's Handcrafted Gin and Hotham's Cardamom Gin, and a Gin School.

Emma and Simon said: “We both love living in Hull and are really proud to be part of the fantastic culture here. We're really excited to bring such a wonderful experience to Hull and to be part of the Old Town scene. We're seeing a big gin boom at the moment, with discerning drinkers showing interest in smaller producers and hand-crafted spirits.

“We love to welcome guests to our Gin School and Distillery, to share our passion for creating gin, and to see others enjoy the gins that we have created.

“And if you don't like gin, you can come along and make a vodka instead!”

So why is it called Hotham's?

Way back in 1642, Ye Olde White Harte, an inn on Silver Street, Kingston Upon Hull, was host to John Hotham, baronet and member of Parliament. There, in his role as the Governor of Hull, Hotham made the decision to refuse King Charles I entry to the city. Possibly, Hotham then proceeded to toast his decision with a glass of gin. Upon arriving at Beverley Gate, King Charles I was indeed turned away, by Hotham himself, perhaps, by now, literally full of Dutch courage. This bold move is said to have been the start of the English Civil War.

We cannot help but wonder if this act of defiance was brought about by the fact that in 1638, King Charles I granted a royal charter to regulate the distilling trade within 21 miles of London. Could Sir John have feared the same for Hull, denying him his favourite tipple?

This brief history tells the tale behind the brand. The Hotham’s name has a strong local connection, and they want to celebrate Sir John Hotham’s courage, determination and tenacity to do what he thought was right, despite it being a challenge. Now, it’s time for Hotham’s to start a new revolution: this time in gin and tonic. Akin to 17th century gins, Hotham’s is handcrafted using traditional methods, and with a focus is on producing a premium quality, micro-batch gin: a unique blend of juniper and other botanicals so delicious, you too might start a revolution if denied it.

Micro-batches of no more than 50 bottles are distilled by hand in traditional copper alembic stills, using 8 botanicals - Juniper berries, coriander seeds, lavender, pink peppercorns, rose petals, green cardamon pods, gentian root and orris root. 

Tastings Notes
Pink peppercorns add a hint of spice and a counterbalance to the soft florals, and cardamom pods give a green earthiness to complete our blend. Juniper berries and coriander seeds are joined by the fragrant and delicious flavours of rose and lavender in a gin so perfectly smooth, you can enjoy it neat over ice. 

Alternatively, we recommend that you serve over ice with a quality Indian tonic, and garnish with a wedge of citrus.