Arkbikie Gin: Ak’s Gin

I first met the creators of Arbikie Highland Estate Gin last year at the 2018 Martini Competition. I’ve had the bottle sitting on my shelf waiting to sample and share to the world what we thought of it. Well the time has finally come… it’s time to introduce you dear readers to Arbikie… specifically their Ak’s Gin.

AK’S Gin is distilled in Scotland using honey and wheat farmed at Arbikie along with carefully selected botanicals chosen by Arbikie’s Master Distiller, Kirsty Black. Now Arkbikie are a true field to bottle operation as they grow, distil and bottle on their single estate. Included with the fresh honey and wheat farmed at Arbikie, other botanicals include Black Pepper, Mace and Cardamom.

While the bottle is quite plain compared to other gin brands on the market, don’t let that fool you as inside is a liquid which is quite special. From first smell of the bottle, you can smell an almost floral scent with the lingering scent of honey. At first taste, the warm, spiciness of the pepper comes out but it’s the after notes of honey that leave a delightful taste on your tongue.

We can definitely see why Arbikie won the 2018 World Martini Competition. The juxtaposition of spicy and sweet makes Ak’s Gin a unique gin for me. You should definitely try it in a martini with a piece of Honeycomb in it. It’ll change the way you think about how martinis should taste.

For the perfect serve of Ak’s Gin enjoy with take a tall glass filled with ice. Add a generous measure of AK’s Gin. Topped up with a quality tonic. (I like Fevertree or Franklin & Sons). Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme
and orange zest.

My friend and I had differing opinions while drinking the G&T. She found it more spicy, while I found the honey flavour the most prominent. We both agreed, however, it was the perfect G&T for this gorgeous weather we’ve been having in the UK lately. Sunshine in February! Who would have thought it.

A 70Cl bottle costs £35 and can be purchased online and at speciality alcohol stores.

Social Media: @arbikiegin – #AKSGin 

Website: www.arbikie.com

Written by Tegan LeBon

Twitter and Instagram: @toogs1

Photos from Arkbie Highland Estate.