"A wise man once said, 'A gin is a gin is a gin - its the lime that matters.'
And so it was, for many years," says professor of spirits Mike Webber, "yes, there were different ways of drinking gin - a Ricky here, a Tom Collins there, and, of course, the sublime martini leading the field. But the gin itself - well, people had their favorites, but it is doubtful that they could have selected them in a blind taste test."

Hendricks has come along and introduced the concept of peculiarity to the staid, rather conformist world of gin. This is the first premium white spirit to be introduced by the famous William Grant and Sons, a distiller with over 100 years experience producing some of the worlds finest single malt Scotch whiskies. London-based distillers may have cornered gin production up until now, notes distillery manager Webber.But, its time for the Scots to show what a fine gin should taste like. After all, whats London have over the Highlands when it comes to distilling?

Its true that no other gin tastes like Hendricks, a fact that is borne out in taste tests, which indicate that only 1 out of 1000 gin drinkers prefer Hendricks. "Not a good average, you say? This gentlemen at Hendrick™s beg to differ. Most people shrink away from what is odd,offers Webber But there are those who seek it, individuals who are truly excited by what is different. Hendricks is for them.

Why is Hendricks peculiar; coriander, juniper, citrus peel, rose petals, and a curious but marvelous infusion of cucumber. Yes, cucumber. This eclectic combination of flavors achieves a resounding balance that delights difference-seeking individuals and leaves them, perhaps, dissatisfied with typical gins.

A second reason for Hendrick's peculiarity can be found in its country of
origin: Scotland. Yes, the land of the 'wee dram', the kilt, the peaty treat, the single-highland-malt-Scotch-whisky is also the home of the free and brave ginmakers at Hendrick's. But then, the Scots have always been known for their, some say, eccentricity.

A third reason for Hendricks peculiarity comes from its production process.
Hendricks is made in hand-crafted small batches in Girvan, Scotland. Brought to life in column stills, distillery manager Mike Webber infuses this elixir with seven distinct botanicals. It is then exported to the United States by Scotland's own William Grant & Sons, where it retails for $27.99 - a small price to pay for a gin so unique.

A final word from the sly, shy Mister Webber concerning how to enjoy the particular pleasures of this peculiar gin. "Hendrick's is wonderful chilled straight up or on the rocks, but Hendrick's lovers also speak rapturously of its backbone, a forthright strength that makes it perfect in a mixed drink topped with a slice of cucumber. Hold the lime." Scotty, beam me aboard.

The gin comes in an attractive black glass, apothocary styled bottle. Such a bottle is perfect for storing good olive oil, perhaps adding a pour spout. The dark glass keeps the oil from oxidizing as quickly. My plan is for next Christmas, I will buy some very good olive oil in bulk and pour in to rinsed, empty bottles of Hendricks gin. Maybe I'll tie a bow on these unique, dare say peculiar, gifts to give. A marvelous holiday gift and the only challenge being that I must keep drinking more Hendricks gin.