The Boathouse, 28 Island St, Salcombe TQ8 8DP, UK
Salcombe Gin Helpful for Healthy Ocean
JULY 2014
The concept, inspiration and initiation
Having met teaching sailing in Salcombe years prior and inspired by their ritual of a Gin & Tonic, co-founders Angus and Howard galvanise their shared passion to create the distillery concept for an exceptional Salcombe Gin.
JUNE 2016
The dream becomes a reality
After two years of recipe development and distillery build, the concept became a reality, when Angus and Howard launched our inaugural gin ‘Start Point’. Within a year it was awarded Gold at the World Gin Awards and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
MARCH 2017
A school for adults
Inspired by our personal creative journey, we opened our very own Gin School. The first of its kind in the South West that has since welcomed thousands of visitors, with over 5,000 unique gins being created, guided by our expert team of distillers.
JULY 2018
Voyager series release
Born from a desire to combine our expertise in spirits, with the flair of world renowned chefs and iconic winemakers, the limited-edition Voyager Series Gins concept is born. The maiden release ‘Arabella’ is developed with chef Michael Caines MBE DL.
JULY 2019
Rosé tinted glasses
We elevated beyond the ubiquitous sweet fruit flavoured gins on the market and developed a gin inspired by the fruity yet dry notes found in a Provence rosé wine. ‘Rosé Sainte Marie’ was born to sit perfectly alongside ‘Start Point’ as our second signature gin.
JUNE 2021
One percent for the ocean
With a shared love for and commitment to protect, regenerate and conserve our oceans for future generations, we launched our pledge to donate 1% of sales from every bottle sold to help fund ocean regeneration initiatives with the Marine Conservation Society.
Purpose
Every bottle sold makes our oceans healthier
Inspired by the coastal vitality of Salcombe and its ship building heritage, the protection of the oceans is very important to us. The team at Salcombe Distilling Company all share a common desire to help protect and maintain the precious ocean environment that inspires and influences everything we do.
With this at the forefront of our thought process, we have been working on meaningful initiatives to ensure that we minimise our impact on the environment whilst making the most positive contribution we possibly can to improve the health and wellbeing of our oceans.
Our mission is to have a positive impact on the ocean and the life it supports by vigorously reducing our carbon footprint and supporting meaningful initiatives that rewild our oceans and sequester carbon. That’s why we donate 1% of every bottle sold to the Marine Conservation Society to help protect and regenerate precious ocean habitats.
stories
sharing our passion for exceptional spirits, life on and around the water and sustainability, our stories invite you to peek through the porthole into the world of salcombe gin. discover our latest initiatives, unique recipes and stories from the sea.
What Makes an Exceptional Gin?
The Return to London Dry
First introduced in the 18th century, a london dry gin is a classic gin renowned for its rigorous technical standards and quality.
In recent years there has been an increase in the number of flavoured gins, in particular pink gins on the market. However, we are now seeing London Dry gins once again rise in popularity.
What is a london dry?
Contrary to common belief, a London Dry gin does not mean that it is made in London. It can be distilled anywhere – our multi-award winning London Dry gin ‘Start Point’ is distilled right here in Salcombe! The term London Dry actually refers to the method of distillation and is a technical standard to distil to.
The London Dry was first created back in the 1700s as a response to the unregulated booming gin industry. Prior to its introduction, some gin distillers would add artificial chemicals, colourings and ingredients to the gin to make it easier to drink. However, this had a huge impact on the quality and purity of the liquid resulting in gin that was often undrinkable and sometimes even fatal! London Dry gin provided a solution to guarantee the quality of the gin and ensure that no harmful chemicals were added after distillation.
To this day, the London Dry gin remains a symbol of quality and current laws state that a gin can only be labelled a ‘London Dry’ if it meets the following specific requirements:
• It must be made only by distilling ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin.
• It must be distilled at first to a strength of at least 96% ABV and then distilled again to at least 70% ABV with juniper and other botanicals. If any additional flavours are added, they must be from the distillation of natural plant materials and added during the distillation, i.e. not post-distillation.
• Post-distillation, it can only be watered down to 37.5% ABV and no artificial flavourings or colourings can be added. Only a tiny amount of sweetener (maximum 0.1 grams per litre) can be added, although in practice very few distillers add any sugar to a London Dry gin, we certainly don’t.
The flavour profile of a london dry
A London Dry, as the name suggests is a dry gin that is juniper forward. In fact, it is the most common gin that you will receive when you ask for a G&T at a bar. It is also very versatile; best served as a gin and tonic but it is also fantastic in cocktails.
Discover a few of our favourite London Dry gin cocktails here.
‘start point’
Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’ is our multi-award-winning London Dry Gin. Every bottle of ‘Start Point’ starts its journey with the finest Macedonian juniper berries and fresh citrus peels of red grapefruit, lemon and lime which are hand peeled each day prior to distillation. These are added straight into our 450l still alongside 9 further hand-picked botanicals to craft this exceptional gin. Post-distillation we add only pure Dartmoor water to bring the gin down to bottling strength.
Bursting with flavours of red grapefruit, ‘Start Point’ is a smooth, distinct and complex London Dry that is served best with plenty of ice, a slice of red grapefruit and plenty of good quality tonic water.
Our beautiful multi-award winning ‘Rosé Sainte Marie’ gin is also distilled to the London Dry method, but post-distillation we steep further strawberries in the distillate to accentuate and complement the aromas and flavours of the English strawberries used during the distillation process. Although we don’t add any artificial colours, flavours or added sugar, as we have added a botanical post-distillation, it means that the gin doesn’t adhere to the London Dry standard.
WHAT MAKES AN EXCEPTIONAL GIN?
whilst it is possible to craft a perfectly drinkable bottle of gin in an hour under expert tuition, to make it truly exceptional, can take much longer.
From coastal inspiration to liquid masterpiece
At Salcombe Gin, crafting an exceptional gin isn’t just a job, it’s an exploration fuelled by a deep obsession with creating exceptional spirits. Surprisingly each of our gins don’t begin their journey at our distillery, but on paper, where we meticulously develop the concept, narrative, and flavour profile of each gin. Our coastal location in Salcombe is the source of inspiration for all our gins, each of which are inspired by journeys that once locally built 19th century Salcombe Fruit Schooners made across the globe in pursuit of exotic citrus fruits and spices.
Beyond the science
Our meticulous approach extends far beyond the initial concept. Each batch undergoes rigorous blind taste testing, where we taste it neat and mixed with tonic, analyse, tweak and refine repeatedly until it achieves pure perfection. But for us, the true test lies in how our gin elevates the everyday experience. That’s why we take our creations into their natural habitat – the living room!
The controlled environment of the distillery ensures precision, but sometimes the most unexpected breakthroughs occur during a relaxed evening spent savouring a gin and tonic. The atmosphere, the company, the subtle nuances of a home setting – these all play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the perfect gin experience.
The art of balance: a journey for your senses
It’s our obsessive precision and real-world testing that separates Salcombe Gin from the rest. We’ve helped customers create over 10,500 different gin recipes in our Gin School and have extensive experience in combining botanicals from a vast selection.
Whilst it is possible to craft a perfectly drinkable bottle of gin in an hour under expert tuition, to make it truly exceptional and multi-dimensional gin, can take much longer. We refuse to be bound by deadlines – rushing a masterpiece is a recipe for mediocrity. Take our award-winning Start Point Gin, for example. This timeless London Dry wasn’t born in a hurry; it took a dedicated 18 months to evolve from initial concept to final product.
Our focus lies in crafting a recipe that begins with a bright, fresh juniper backbone. We then utilise botanicals and precise quantities to create a distinct flavour profile. Imagine a multi-dimensional experience where juniper takes centre stage, followed by a wave of citrus and spice, interlaced with herbal or floral notes, and grounded by earthy tones. The seamless transition between aroma and taste, the first sip’s impact, and the lingering finish are all carefully considered.
The unsung hero: water
When distilling gin, every detail matters, and that includes the water used for diluting gin to a bottling strength. Here in Devon, we’re blessed with naturally soft water flowing from Dartmoor National Park, which contributes to the smoothness and mixability.
A dedication to flavour
But our dedication to detail doesn’t stop there. Take, for instance, the smoky citrus notes in our ‘Four Seas’ gin. Achieving that delicate balance took months of experimentation. We explored various woods – orange, lemon, olive, cedar – before finally settling on American oak recovered from ex-bourbon casks. Slow roasting and smoking lemons over these wood chips on a ceramic barbecue creates the signature caramelised marmalade and soft smoke character of Four Seas.
The path to perfection isn’t always smooth sailing. We once partnered with a local smokehouse, hoping to infuse botanicals with smoke alongside their fish. The aromas were incredible, but far too overpowering! Let’s just say leaving a car full of smoked experiments over the weekend was a lesson learned (and a mistake not to be repeated!).
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GIN HAMPERS
04.2024
Our luxury gin gift hampers are the perfect gift for any gin lover
Featuring a choice of Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’, ‘Rosé Sainte Marie’ and Voyager Series ‘Daring’, 2 x branded gin glasses, 8 x150ml Fever-Tree Indian tonic water cans, Salcombe Gin jute bag and a wicker hamper.
Start point’ hamper
For the ultimate luxury gin experience
Our ‘Start Point’ Hamper features our multi-award winning London Dry gin. ‘Start Point’ is a classic citrus-led gin with refreshing notes of red grapefruit and earthy pine from Macedonian juniper. Make this Hamper extra special with the option of custom engraving on the bottle!
99.00£
Rosé sainte marie’ hamper
For those with a taste for travel
Featuring our multi-award winning dry rosé gin, inspired by the Mediterranean. ‘Rosé Sainte Marie’ is a delicate ‘pink’ gin with fragrant notes of fresh lemon peel and Provence herbs.
99.00 £
Voyager series ‘daring’ hamper
For those who fancy something unique
Our Voyager Series ‘Daring’ Hamper features our limited-edition gin crafted in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Paul Ainsworth. ‘Daring’ brings together our expertise in developing exceptional taste and shared passion for the South West coast.
Voyager Series ‘Daring’ is not suitable for vegans.
£129.00
How to Enjoy Start Point
From our signature serve ‘start point & tonic’ to a wide range of cocktails, there are so many ways to enjoy our multi-award winning gin.
Whether you’re looking to perfect your gin and tonic or learn a new cocktail recipe, discover our recommendations on how best to enjoy our flagship gin ‘Start Point’ below!
Start point & tonic
Our signature serve is simply the best and easiest way to enjoy Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’.
INGREDIENTS
50ml Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’
150ml Premium Indian tonic water
A slice of red grapefruit
METHOD
Place plenty of ice in a large gin glass.
Add 50ml of Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’.
Top with 150ml of premium Indian tonic water.
Garnish with a slice of red grapefruit.
Gently stir and serve.
Marmajito
Our most popular cocktail and our take on a classic Mojito!
INGREDIENTS
50ml Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’
2 Barspoons of blood orange marmalade
10ml Lemon juice
10 Clapped mint leaves & a sprig of mint
Elderflower tonic water
Slice of blood orange or orange
METHOD
Place the gin, blood orange marmalade, lemon juice and clapped mint leaved into a Boston shaker glass.
Top with ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
Fill a highball tumbler with ice.
Double strain the mixture into the highball tumbler.
Top with elderflower tonic water and garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of blood orange or orange.
Pennant martini
A nautical twist on a classic drink.
INGREDIENTS
50ml Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’
10ml Knightor Dry Vermouth
Red Grapefruit
METHOD
Place lots of ice into a mixing glass.
Add the gin and vermouth.
Using a bar spoon, stir gently for 30 seconds.
Strain and pour into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a red grapefruit peel twist.
St clair
The perfect aperitif for a celebratory moment!
INGREDIENTS
25ml Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’
25ml St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
20ml Freshly squeezed red grapefruit juice
70ml Chilled soda water
Red grapefruit peel for decorative garnish
METHOD
Fill a Boston shaker with ice.
Add the red grapefruit juice, St. Germain and Salcombe Gin ‘Start Point’.
Shake vigorously and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a flute glass.
Add the chilled soda water.
Slice a thin piece of grapefruit peel and add to the rim of the glass for a decorative garnish.
THE SPIRIT OF SALCOMBE
Ranked as one of conde nast traveller’s best seaside towns in england in 2023, salcombe is a magical place. from the crystal clear water dotted with white sails to breathtaking coastal paths, we are proud to call this small coastal town in devon our home.
Our starting point
Salcombe is one of those places that stays in your heart forever; and I was no exception having spent my childhood holidays building sandcastles on the golden sandy beaches, exploring rock pools for crabs and sailing a little dinghy boat around the stunning estuary.
Angus had been doing much the same and when we met teaching sailing at the Island Cruising Club back in 1995, we formed a ritual of enjoying a Gin & Tonic after a busy day on the water. The simplicity of sipping a sundowner G&T whilst overlooking the beautiful Salcombe estuary was spectacular and the perfect beginning to the evenings’ social activities.
Years later after pursuing successful careers elsewhere, we found ourselves reminiscing about those special moments in Salcombe. With a nostalgic desire to recapture this distinctive experience, we began our journey in 2014 to create a world-class gin inspired by the magic of Salcombe and its maritime history. Over the next 18 months, we left no stone unturned in developing an exceptional London Dry gin that transports you to Salcombe’s shores with every sip.
Our distillery on island street
When we decided to build our brand home in Salcombe, we wanted to settle on a location that meant something to us. When a spot on Island Street that was once home to the Island Cruising Club appeared on the market, it felt like destiny for this to become the home of Salcombe Gin.
To honour Island Street’s boat building heritage (a craft that still takes place on Island Street today) and the building’s waterside location, we named our brand home the ‘Boathouse’.
In 2017, shortly after the launch of our flagship gin ‘Start Point’, we installed our beautiful 450l copper pot still at our distillery. We decided to name our still ‘Provident’ after the Island Cruising Club’s maiden vessel, and to this day every drop of Salcombe Gin is distilled by us on ‘Provident’ right here in Salcombe, overlooking the water.
Sharing the magic
Having mastered the art of distillation and captured the spirit of Salcombe in our multi-award winning ‘Start Point’ gin, we wanted to share our expertise in crafting exceptional spirits the ‘Salcombe’ way.
In March 2017 we opened the doors to our Gin School, an experience that invites our guests to learn about our meticulous approach to gin distillation whilst distilling their very own unique creation. Since then, visitors guided by our expert distilling team have created over 10,000 unique recipes of gin, each receiving the Salcombe seal of approval.
We are very proud of the fact that the Gin School itself has now won many awards and is ranked as one of the top activities to do in Salcombe; this is further borne by our loyal Gin School guests who come back again and again, with some having joined us to develop different gins as many as 5 times!
