Our bottle of Sipsmith ran out recently (I know! How very dare it!), so I chose Cotswold Dry Gin, and since it’s not covered in the Advent Gin series, I thought I’d write about it here.
First, I should own up that I expected to like it; I was given a bottle several years ago, and I recall approving of it then.
It tastes like gin. Not an exotic botanical supplement, not a generic astringent clear fluid such as might be poured on an open wound in an emergency. Gin. The essence of the thing is juniper, praise Bacchus,* with very gentle botanicals in the background. I picked up a floral note, which their website seems to indicate is lavender; and yes, my preferred citrus, grapefruit makes a definite appearance. (They even suggest a slice of grapefruit in a Cotswolds G&T, which makes me wish we had a slice in the house.) I do not ask much more than this of my go-to gin.
The finish is a tiny bit metallic, for which the presence of bay leaves may account (not my very favourite, tbh). Maybe also the pepper.
But then I take another sip and delight in the balance of juniper, lavender, and grapefruit, and think that if I were going to drink too much gin, I would lean on Cotswolds as the overindulgence to choose.
But I won’t, honest.
Note that I kinda liked the Cotswolds Hedgerow Gin when it came up in Advent Gin…
* Not praising Bacchus. I’m a proper Christian clergyman.
I truly enjoyed exploring this collection of posts from January, because the author’s reflections blend everyday life, spiritual rhythm, and theological curiosity in such a grounded and engaging way. As someone who writes about growth, faith, creativity, and the way ordinary moments shape our understanding, I appreciate how these writings make room for both the contemplative and the practical—from walks and morning prayers to thoughtful musings on life’s unexpected turns. There’s a humble yet rich curiosity here that invites readers to slow down, ponder meaning deeply, and see how spiritual awareness permeates even the simplest routines. The posts remind me that learning isn’t confined to formal classrooms; it thrives in the ongoing rhythm of life, imagination, and honest reflection, encouraging us to keep discovering, questioning, and growing in faith and understanding.