Fords Gin (70cl, 45%)

A London dry gin created with cocktails in mind, so that it works across drinks such as the Martini, Negroni and Bee's Knees. Juniper and coriander seed form the base, with bitter orange, lemon and grapefruit peel, jasmine blossom, orris root, angelica root and cassia. Citrus and juniper are joined by floral notes up to orange blossom. The nine botanicals are steeped directly in the stills for 15 hours before a five-hour distillation. The gin is then taken to Newbridge in Scotland, where spring water brings it to 45%. The bottle is shaped for bar work, with an ergonomic grip and side measurement markings. It holds 70cl and comes without gift packaging. Behind it are Simon Ford and Charles Maxwell of Thames Distillers, with production in London since 2012.