IBHU Indlovu Gin 70cl

Description

IBHU Indlovu Gin

Whilst on a safari in Kenya, the founders were enjoying a g&t whilst watching a herd of elephants. Their guide was telling how particular elephants are in their browsiing habits, yet actually digest little of what they eat.

So.... an idea was born.... would it be possible to make elephant dung gin?

This is truly a gin made in Africa, which is designed by elephants! (Don't worry.... the dung is carefully collected, then washed and dried before being distilled!) Indlovu is even the word for elephant in several South African languages. It's these majestic animals which dictate, in their foraging habits, the botanicals utilised in the creation of this gin.

This gin has a true provenance to it, similar to wines. The dung is collected in different locations, and at different times of the year. This dictates some of the botanicals found in the gin. On the back of each bottle are two numbers, the first is the co-ordinates of the game reserve where its collected, and the second is the date when it was collected.

Whilst the elephants help in the making of the gin, the classical botanicals in the gin are Juniper, Angelica, Orris Root, Coriander and citrus. Those which are chosen by the elephants could include Buccu (Agathosma crenulata), Acacia (Acacia mearnsii), Guarii (Euclea undulata) and Erica (Erica coccinea) (which are the elephants’ favourite foods). This does however change season to season.

The aroma contains juniper, and has an almost grass-like earthiness to it along with a hint of citrus. The flavour is of a fairly classic gin, with a juniper backbone and a hint of citrus. However, there is also an intruiging spiciness, which differs marginally based on the elephant chosen botanicals. The finish is perfectly balanced, with a delicious smoothness, and leaves a creaminess in the mouth.

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Perfect Serve

Whilst this works perfectly in a classic g&t (which is after all what inspired its creation) try in the mix to really create a talking point.

Try an Indlovu egumbini (Elephant in the room) cocktail. In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 60ml of the gin, 15ml of Cointreau and a splash of fresh orange juice. Stir well, and pour into a glass with a few ice cubes. Top up with a light tonic of your choice (try The Artisan Drinks Co), and garnish with a few coffee beans and a twist of orange peel.