Producer launches 'UK first' cannabis-infused gin

12-Feb-2019 - Last updated on 12-Feb-2019 at 10:55 GMT

Riding high: Hin Gin's cannabis-infused gin is the UK's first of its kind

An English producer has launched what is believed to be the UK's first cannabis-infused gin, which will bring the total of hemp gins available worldwide up to just four.

Hin Gin, co-founded by Mat Graham and Chris Puttick, is made without the THC or CBD cannabis compounds; it is just infused with hemp.

Hemp is the fibre of the cannabis plant, extracted from the stem, and used to make rope, strong fabrics, paper, and now, gin.

Watching the market

With only four hemp-infused gin businesses in the world, Graham added his delight in becoming the UK’s very first.

“We are the first to introduce a hemp-infused gin to the UK,” exclaimed Graham.

“We had been watching the hemp and CBD market for a while before we chose to enter the spirits market.

“Our gin started by using a tea strainer in a very standard gin – we quickly realised its taste, aroma and texture was so different to anything else on the market.”

Secret ingredients

The bespoke recipe, bottled at 40% ABV, has been “carefully crafted” to unlock the many hidden earthy aromas found in hemp.

Other botanicals include lemon peel, pink peppercorn and juniper, though Graham says the remaining ingredients are being kept under wraps.

“We use a part of the hemp plant that contains no THC or CBD, for now, as we feel the leaf allows for a better infusion,” Graham explained.

“During the standard distilling process, we vapour infuse with hemp, meaning the characteristics of the hemp are introduced to the gin without actually adding the physical products together."

Hemp revolution

Bursting with confidence, Graham said the pairs aim is to "deliver the hemp revolution" and believes Hin Gin will “revitalise” the gin industry.

“The team at Hin has been out selling to pubs, supermarkets, gin bars, restaurants and the public via our website,” added Graham.

“Hin has seen an overwhelming response by bar managers and gin lovers – one pub has already made us 'Gin of the Month' – another is hosting a cocktail evening for us to understand what the gin best goes with.”

The pair are currently awaiting an Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme licence, which should arrive in the near future to enable them to sell business to business.

Hin is available from www.hinsupply.com at an RRP of £40.