Let's face it, January is pretty grim. It's cold, you're trying to be good and you're broke after the Christmas break. It's easy to see why people want to do dry January.
I for one think January is crap enough without taking away one of my greatest pleasures in life - a crisp G&T of a Friday evening after a heavy week in work. Sure look, what harm is that? It's low in calories and it's super tasty.
That's one sure way to add a bit of happiness to this horrible time of year.
Sláinte to that!
This week we're heading west to the beautiful land of Connemara, famous for its unusual beaches, sweeping vistas and Irish speakers. As well as all of that, you'll find a poitín and gin distillery.
Micil Irish Gin is the latest release from the Galway Distillery.
The distillation craft has been passed down through six generations and the gin has been created to turn the charm of the west coast of Ireland into something tangible (or taste-able!)
I have to say, I adore this gin. It's really different from anything else I've tried and it's got such a great story behind it.
Here's everything you need to know:
This deep green square glass bottle looks almost vintage at a first glance.
On the front label you'll see the eye-catching name "Micil" written in bold and gold. Beneath is a stunning illustration of the wild botanicals used in the gin.
One of my favourite parts of all is the cork that reads "sláinte mhaith" meaning good health, or also being another way of saying cheers!
Micil is named after the distiller's great, great grandfather Micil Mac Chearra. Every bottle is carefully handcrafted in their micro-distillery in Galway using 100% Irish grain and bogbean botanical.
The unique blend of botanicals are pot-distilled, rather than added after distillation, which creates a crisp and well-rounded flavour.
This gin is rich and fragrant with hints of fresh heather and bog-myrtle.
There are strong aromas of zingy citrus, spice and herbs followed by sweet liquorice-y notes.
Initially, you'll get a kick from the herbs and spices followed by a gentle tang of rhubarb and botanicals, rounding off to the distinctive taste of juniper berries.
The sweetness from the liquorice lingers on the tongue tasting like blackberries in spring.
With tonic it has a semi dry clean and fresh finish.
It really brings out the flavours and compliments the warm spicy botanicals.
A 700ml bottle of Micil Irish Gin will cost you €48.
You'll find it in The Celtic Whiskey Shop, McCambridges, Bradleys, O'Connors, Molloys and in premium gin bars across the Emerald Isle.
READ MORE: GINFLUENCED: Here's The Top 10 Gins Of 2018
