I really like writing about other like-minded companies who share that 'homemade, handmade & high quality' ethos that we have. So it's time to talk about Sipsmith which was co-founded by my mate Fairfax (the loon on the right in the photo above!)

As the first copper distillery to launch in London for almost 200 years, they (Sam, Fairfax, Jared and of course, the copper beauty herself - Prudence) have since taken the country by storm with their award-winning gins and vodkas.

They make their spirits by hand in small batches of a few hundred bottles and have now got a great collection. London Dry Gin, Barley Vodka, Sloe Gin, Damson Vodka and their super tasty Summer Cup are all lovingly made with traditional recipes and taste divine.

So if you haven't tried them already, you definitely should. We have a bottle of their delicious Sloe Gin to give to the first two of you to answer the following correctly: which French word does the English word 'gin' derive from? (Please note you must be aged 18 or above to enter). Send your answers to [email protected].

Is it:

a) genièvre

b) génial

c) gêneur

If you're quick enough to win one then you might want to try this amazing Mulled Sloe Gin recipe that they've given us. It's perfect for these chilly days!

Ingredients

  • Belvoir Apple, Plum & Cinnamon cordial
  • cloudy apple juice
  • spices (either ginger, cinnamon sticks, allspice, cardamom pods)
  • boiling water
  • 25ml sloe gin or damson vodka (per glass)
  • half an orange slice (per glass)
  • a cinnamon stick, or a piece of candied ginger (per glass)

To make

Combine water, cordial & apple juice in a saucepan on a low heat. Add the spices. Let the mixture simmer covered for about 20 minutes. Ladle into a mug, teacup or Irish coffee mug and add sloe gin or damson vodka per glass. Garnish with a slice of orange and/or a cinnamon stick, or a piece of candied ginger on the rim.

Happy slurping.