Gin and tonic; a match made in heaven, right? So you can understand why when I was asked if I wanted to try the January gin box from the Craft Gin Club, which included not only a delicious bottle of gin and matching tonic but a Soda Folk Grape Soda, I was intrigued.
I’ve tried Soda Folk before, a refreshing Cherry Soda which was perfect in those warmer summer months of 2020. Unlike many sodas which shall remain unnamed, Soda Folk genuinely taste like unique and individual flavours – they’re not just another brightly coloured, indistinguishable option. What’s more, they are made using only natural ingredients, natural colourings and have absolutely no artificial preservatives or sweeteners, as well as being gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Win win!
From one can of Grape Soda I made two drinks – each with a 50ml measure of the Craft Gin Club gin of the month, Seppeltsfield Road Gin – and a generous serving of ice. The result was refreshing and sharp, and I imagine perfect for sipping in the summer sun. And perfect for my boyfriend who, much to my horror, doesn’t like tonic water.
The only downside was that we slightly lost the characteristics of the gin as they were overpowered by the soda. But, if you were using perhaps a less interesting gin (if you get my drift) it would be a great choice – especially if you’re not a tonic fan.
When paired with the Artisan Drinks Amalfi Lime Tonic for the perfect serve with some lime and cranberry to garnish, the individual botanicals of this wonderful gin were allowed to shine through. Balanced and bright, this gin had notes of citrus that mingle with herbaceous, floral flavours of chamomile, elderflower, lavender and borage. Made in the Barossa Valley, Australia, this award-winning tipple is made with ingredients they harvest in Barossa Valley. While the one in the gin box was made exclusively for the Gin Club members, you can try some of their other flavours.
My verdict – if you want something different to a G&T to enjoy during the summer months, dry a Gin & Soda (Folk).
You can try Soda Folk sodas from £8.99 for 8 x 330ml cans: https://sodafolk.com/
The Craft Gin Club membership is £40 a month, and within each box you receive:
A unique bottle of gin per month
Mixers for the perfect serve
Ingredients for a cocktail of the month
Additional snacks and drinks to enjoy