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Halewood International, the UK’s leading independent drinks manufacturer and distributor, has launched a new craft spirits range, JJ Whitley, to tap into increasing demand amongst younger audiences for new flavour combinations within the spirits category.

The range will initially feature two gins; JJ Whitley London Dry Gin and Elderflower Gin, and two vodkas; JJ Whitley Potato Vodka and Rhubarb Vodka, and will be available throughout the On Trade.

The JJ Whitley range is inspired by the British countryside and comprises subtle and unusual flavours, and a family tradition of distilling and high quality liquids, which offers a distinct point-of-difference to other gins and vodkas currently available.

JJ Whitley London Dry Gin is blended with eight botanicals including juniper and citrus peel, resulting in a smooth liquid which can be consumed straight over ice or with a tonic. JJ Whitley’s Elderflower Gin contains a mixture of subtle flavours which can be found through rural England including real elderflower extract, as well as cinnamon, and is ideally suited as a base for summer themed cocktails.

The JJ Whitley Potato Vodka is made with 100% potato to create a clean, crisp liquid, and with a hint of black pepper, can be used to create the perfect vodka martini. JJ Whitley’s Rhubarb Vodka contains natural rhubarb flavour and is versatile as a base to create a variety of fruity, summer cocktails.

The range features an elegant bottle design, providing significant stand-out on the back bar, and highlights JJ Whitley’s propositions of quality and heritage.

The JJ Whitley range compliments other spirits within the Halewood International portfolio, such as the premium Whitley Neill Gin, and therefore allows operators and retailers to stock a varied product range, with more choice for consumers.

Each of the spirits within the JJ Whitley range has an ABV of 38.6%.

The range is named after the Whitley family, which began creating fine spirits in Daresbury, Cheshire in 1762 using ingredients and delicate flavours from around the world.

A Halewood International spokesperson comments: “The JJ Whitley range was developed in response to increasing consumer demand for quality, versatile liquids which can be used as a base for a variety of drinks, including cocktails.

“The variety, quality and flavour combinations in the JJ Whitley range will also encourage consumers to trade up, and will allow operators to provide a greater and more curious range of drinks.”

Tasting Notes:

JJ Whitley London Dry Gin: A recipe using eight botanicals, including juniper, coriander, liquorice and sweet citrus peel. Wonderful smoothness with a clear scents of juniper, perfectly complimented with hints of citrus, spice and Parma violets.

JJ Whitley Elderflower Gin: This Elderflower gin has soft scents of juniper, coriander and cinnamon to create a sweet velvety sensation and a fresh, floral bouquet.

JJ Whitley Potato Vodka: This potato vodka has a clean, crisp taste with a lightly sweet flavour, hints of black pepper on the finish and a creamy mouthful.

JJ Whitley Rhubarb Vodka: This vodka has a delicate sweet bouquet reminiscent of summer and freshly picked Rhubarb, with a delightfully smooth mouthful and tempting clear liquid.