Dire Straits’ Mark Knopfler launches gin
Local Heroes No.3 combines Portobello Road Gin’s nine botanicals with lime zest, fresh cucumber peel and olive oil.
Knopfler is an acclaimed singer-songwriter, guitarist, record producer and film score composer, who is best known as lead singer, guitarist and songwriter of rock band Dire Straits.
The launch of Local Heroes No.3 coincides with the opening of a new stage musical adaptation of the classic Scottish film Local Hero, which features new music and lyrics by Knopfler.
Each of the limited-edition gin bottles made will be distilled on Portobello Road in the 400-litre copper alembic still called King Henry then bottled and labelled by hand.
The bottle’s decorative label design was led by Knopfler and is inspired by his passion for guitars. On the inside label of each bottle there is an image of his famous 1937 14-fret National Style O Resonator.
Wonderful opportunity
There is also a nod to the days when Knopfler would sport a headband for his live performances, so each bottle comes with its own miniature version in red.
Knopfler said: “This year is an exciting one with the launch of the Local Hero musical, a global tour and, of course, the launch of my new limited-edition gin in collaboration with Portobello Road Gin.
“As a gin fan, it is a wonderful opportunity to work with a prestigious brand like Portobello Road Gin to craft my own blend.
“This project allowed us to share our vision and I’m incredibly proud of the results. It is robust in flavour and strong in spice – exactly the kind of gin I enjoy and I hope my fans will too.”
Portobello Road co-founder Jake F Burger called working with the musician a huge honour.
Signature blend
He said: “The Local Heroes collection is an occasional release of very limited-edition gins, created in collaboration with some of our own personal heroes who we feel best embody the spirit of Portobello Road.
“Knopfler was introduced to us by our previous local hero Brett Graham. After meeting with Knopfler and his management team for lunch and bonding over a mutual love of music and gin, the collaboration was agreed.
“I worked closely with Knopfler to create the recipe, which was guided by his preferred gin styles. As a Portobello Road Gin fan, he expressed an interest in creating a more summery take on our signature blend that is also bold in flavour.
“To create this, we distilled our nine-time honour botanicals adding lime zest, fresh cucumber peel and olive oil.
“As expected, the flavours are totally unique and the result is extremely exciting. The addition of olive oil results in a wonderfully smooth finish making it a great gin for Martinis and Gibsons, which, of course, shares its name with the iconic guitar brand.
“So why not mix a cocktail, turn the stereo up and listen to one of Knopfler’s many classic albums?”
