A nice day out
Julie and I went to Staffordshire for a nice day out. Well, only as far as
Nelson’s Distillery and Gin School, actually.
We spent the day learning how to make gin, and
came home with our very own special blend.
To start we had to choose the ‘botanicals’ to
flavour the spirit - obviously, as it is gin, at least
40% must be juniper berries. The rest is made
from each one’s personal choice from over 60
herby, spicy, fruity, flowery items available.
Then it was into the still, apply the heat,
and wait. But while we were waiting we got
to sample Nelson’s own No7 gin, and their
rhubarb and custard version. All very nice,
but some of us had to drive home.
We were introduced to ‘Victory’, the still responsible for producing
gin in industrial quantities, and what a gorgeous, steampunky
piece of equipment she is; all shiny copper and stainless steel.
If you enjoy gin, or even if you don’t but are interested in how it’s
made, the school is open three days a week, why not book a
visit.
Afterthought
It’s that time of year when the subject of money rears its ugly head. Subscriptions are due.
Many of you have already paid, and some even paid in advance … thank you!
But there are a number of you who are causing our new membership secretary, Julie, a little
distress. If you don’t pay up, how is she going to explain to the chairman that our numbers have
dropped? Just think - fresh in post and she is scaring away the members already. She might
even get the sack!
The renewal form is available here, and details of how to make your payment are included. Let’s
face it - for less than a small Costa coffee each month you can be a member of the best
decorative painting group in Britain! You know it makes sense.
(If, for some reason, you cannot get the membership form to download, email me and I’ll send
you a personal copy.)
Joking apart, we are grateful for your continued membership, because without you there would
be no BADFA.
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