The Cotswolds

Hentony joins Craft Gin Club

A festive celebration of friendship, heritage and craft

This month marks an exciting milestone for Hentony, as the brand joins the Craft Gin Club community with two spectacular festive spirits. Members unboxing their December boxes are discovering Hentony Festive Gin and Hentony Festive Rum – a glamorous pair of limited-release drinks that bring a touch of Polish heritage and Cotswold charm to Christmas celebrations.

∙ ORDER YOUR FESTIVE HENTONY GIN TODAY ∙

Born from the close friendship of Anna Kiryla and Agnieszka Niedzwiedz, Hentony is a distillery shaped by shared history, bold experimentation, and a willingness to start small and grow slowly. Originally from Lublin in southeastern Poland, Anna and Agnieszka relocated to Evesham in the Vale of Evesham more than twenty years ago. Over time, they fell in love with the region’s friendly market-town spirit, rich food culture, and the local enthusiasm for craft gin – something that had yet to take off back home.

Fuelled by curiosity, the pair began exploring the world of botanicals from the bottom shelf up – tasting supermarket gins, visiting tastings and festivals, and eventually taking part in a gin-making class. That hands-on experience rekindled the chemistry of their university years in food science, sparking a new idea: why not make a spirit that felt classic and elegant, yet had a flavour profile unlike anything else they had tried?

Slowly, they worked through recipes with the help of a contract distillery, crafting a gin built on juniper, lavender, grapefruit and three types of peppercorn. When the final recipe was finished, the first bottle happened to land on Anna’s birthday, with the contract signed on Agnieszka’s – a serendipitous moment that set the tone for what Hentony would become.

The name itself reflects their roots: Hentony combines Henry, Agnieszka’s son, and Antony, Anna’s. Though stylish and sophisticated, the brand is tied to something personal and heartfelt – a reminder that creativity can be both luxurious and sentimental.

∙ ORDER YOUR FESTIVE HENTONY GIN TODAY ∙

Since launching in 2021, Hentony has grown into a locally treasured name in the Vale of Evesham. The distillery is owned and operated by just the two founders and frequently collaborates with local organisations, charities and businesses – even using a bicycle for local gin deliveries. Alongside their signature London Dry Gin, the range has expanded to include expressions like Lemon & Black Lime Gin, inspired by a request from a loyal customer, and Honey Old Tom Gin, created with a neighbouring beekeeper.

Despite juggling full-time careers, Anna and Agnieszka take a deliberately slow approach to growth. Their focus is on quality, visibility, and community, preferring to meet people at festivals and markets, listen to feedback, and build a brand with depth and story rather than rushing to scale.

Now, with the December Gin and Rum of the Month selections, Hentony takes its biggest step to date: entering the homes of Craft Gin Club members nationwide. The festive releases are inspired by a traditional Polish Christmas cake called Piernik – a layered gingerbread flavoured with almond paste and plum jam. That combination of spices, fruit and sweet warmth forms the soul of both spirits.

Hentony Festive Gin brings a refined, elegant expression with citrus brightness, cacao and almond layered over Christmas spices. Hentony Festive Rum is richer and more indulgent, highlighting jammy plum alongside cinnamon, clove and nutmeg. Individually, each is a celebration of the season; together, they form a pair that echoes the strength of the partnership behind the brand.

The bottles themselves reflect another tradition from the founders’ heritage. In Poland, cut crystal glassware is a symbol of celebration, luxury and familial pride – something treasured and passed between generations. Hentony’s cut-glass style bottles honour that tradition while giving the spirits the kind of dramatic presence that deserves centre stage on a festive bar trolley. The label artwork also nods to where Anna and Agnieszka first met: two goats climbing a juniper bush – a playful twist on the goat seen on Lublin’s coat of arms.

∙ ORDER YOUR FESTIVE HENTONY GIN TODAY ∙

Behind the polish and presentation is a remarkable story of friendship and persistence. Anna and Agnieszka share a motto: “Don’t stop me” … “I won’t even try.” It represents the supportive energy that has carried them from university labs to England, through the balancing act of full-time work and late-night recipe testing, and now into thousands of Craft Gin Club boxes across the country.

For members, Hentony offers more than great spirits – it offers a glimpse into the founders’ shared history, their love for the Vale of Evesham, and a tradition of flavour that spans countries and cultures. However it’s enjoyed – curled up by the fire, poured for friends on Christmas Eve, or shared as a post-dinner treat – these are spirits designed to be part of moments, not just cocktails.

And like Anna and Agnieszka themselves, the Hentony Festive Gin and Rum are charming individually – but stronger together.

The Cotswolds

Underwater Aged Wine, LegaSea Triumphs with Master Medal at the Global Grenache Masters 2025

ElixSea’s LegaSea 2019 — a remarkable red wine born in Priorat and aged beneath the Mediterranean Sea, has achieved the Master Medal, the highest possible honour, at the Global Grenache Masters 2025 organised by The Drinks Business.

This award places LegaSea among the world’s most elite Grenache wines, recognised for its structure, elegance, and innovation. Judged by a panel of Masters of Wine and leading sommeliers, the competition celebrates excellence and craftsmanship across the globe.

The Global Grenache Masters is one of the most respected wine competitions in the world, with thousands of entries each year and only a small percentage reaching Master status. The 2025 edition, held in London, spotlighted exceptional Grenache expressions, with LegaSea standing out for its refined balance and the originality of its underwater aging process.

Produced by ElixSea Wines in Priorat, Spain, LegaSea is aged under the sea where the darkness, temperature, and gentle marine currents contribute to its evolution. The result is a wine of deep character and harmony, a meeting of land and sea in every glass.

“To be recognised with a Master medal is an extraordinary honour,” said Geri and Mariona, founders of ElixSea Wines. “This award is a testament to our team’s passion, precision, and pursuit of excellence in every bottle we make.”

As the exclusive UK importer, Siren’s Amphora in the Cotswolds proudly represents ElixSea’s underwater-aged collection, bringing these extraordinary wines to British consumers and trade partners.

“LegaSea truly embodies the spirit of discovery,” said Simona Fiscu, co-founder of Siren’s Amphora. “It’s a wine that connects innovation, tradition, and the timeless rhythm of the sea and we’re thrilled to see it receive such well-deserved recognition.”

LegaSea and other ElixSea wines are available through www.sirensamphora.com.

The Cotswolds

A Green Gastronomy Revolution in the Cotswolds

In the Cotswolds we’re renowned for the idyllic landscapes and charming villages, but we’re also fast becoming trailblazers in sustainable dining.

A powerful and inspiring movement is sweeping through its culinary scene, driven by a dedicated community of chefs, restaurateurs, and local producers. This isn’t just about good food; it’s about a deep commitment to sourcing and celebrating the abundant local ingredients and homegrown produce that our beautiful region offers.

The most forward-thinking and sustainability-conscious eateries in the Cotswolds are wholeheartedly embracing this ethos. They’re crafting exceptional menus that showcase the freshest seasonal produce directly from nearby farms, allotments, and artisan growers. This dedication significantly reduces food miles, bolsters local economies, and guarantees unparalleled flavour and quality on every plate. By championing this authentic farm-to-fork approach, the Cotswolds is setting a vibrant example, proving that delicious dining and environmental responsibility can, and absolutely should, go hand-in-hand.

Some of the trailblazers

We’re proud to support these fantastic businesses, and we’ve had the pleasure of personally experiencing many of them.

Here are just a few of our wonderful experiences eating green and sustainably in the Cotswolds:

Dormy House ∙ Luxury with a local heart

Perched high in the hills in the north Cotswolds, Dormy House embodies luxury while maintaining a profound connection to its surroundings. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their innovative menus, which highlight the very best of Cotswold produce. Expect dishes that not only tantalise the taste buds but also tell a story of regional collaboration. Their chefs work closely with local suppliers, ensuring that ingredients are at their peak freshness and sourced responsibly. Dining here isn’t just an indulgence; it’s an appreciation for the rich larder that the Cotswolds provides, all within an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.

∙ A true taste of the Cotswolds ∙ Our dinner in The Back Garden at Dormy House ∙

The image on the left is from Otis & Belle artisan bakery. The image on the left is the delicious bread we had with our dinner in The Back Garden at Dormy House.

Josser Restaurant ∙ Al fresco feasts and community spirit

Then there’s Josser Restaurant, a truly unique and extraordinary culinary experience making waves in Cirencester in central Cotswolds. Operating from beautifully converted lorries, Josser takes farm-to-table dining to a literal new level. Their constantly evolving menus are a direct reflection of what’s seasonal and abundant from local suppliers and even individual allotment treasures. This commitment results in vibrant, flavourful dishes that champion hyper-local produce. Dining at Josser is a wonderfully laid-back and friendly affair, often enjoyed at communal tables, fostering connections while savouring truly fresh, responsibly sourced food. It’s a testament to how creative concepts can lead the way in sustainable dining.

∙ Our dinner at Josser in St Michael’s Park ∙ The new must-try experience in the Cotswolds ∙

The image on the left is the cauliflower beetroot massaman curry we so enjoyed when we went for dinner at Josser Restaurant.

Burleigh Court ∙ Historic charm meets modern green values

Nestled within a historic setting in the south Cotswolds, Burleigh Court beautifully marries traditional Cotswold charm with a robust commitment to sustainability. Their kitchen team prioritises ingredients from their own kitchen garden and local suppliers, ensuring a menu that’s both seasonal and incredibly fresh. They take pride in their root-to-leaf philosophy, minimising waste and maximising flavour from every component. Dining at Burleigh Court offers a refined experience where every dish is a celebration of the landscape, showcasing how a focus on local produce can elevate classic British cuisine to new, greener heights. Their dedication makes them a beacon of responsible hospitality in the region.

∙ Sowing the seeds of sustainability ∙ Burleigh Court’s commitment to freshness and nature ∙

Images here from our incredible lunch at Burleigh Court. The one on the right is the delicious vegan Wellington, the one on the left is from their kitchen garden.

Thornbury Castle ∙ A regal taste of local heritage

For a truly regal experience rooted in local heritage, Thornbury Castle stands as an impressive testament to sustainable fine dining within an historic setting. While guests are transported back to medieval times, the culinary team is firmly focused on the present and future, sourcing ingredients with meticulous care from the surrounding estates and local Cotswold producers.

Their menus celebrate the bounty of the region, transforming locally grown vegetables, artisan cheeses, and responsibly sourced meats into exquisite dishes. Dining in the castle’s grand halls offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern culinary consciousness, proving that even a centuries-old establishment can lead the way in supporting local and sustainable practices.

∙ Thornbury Castle ∙ Commitment to sustainability, fresh vegetables, local produce, and inclusive hospitality ∙

Images here from our delicious dinner at Thornbury Castle.

A green movement in the Cotswolds

The green gastronomy movement in the Cotswolds is more than just a trend; it’s a profound shift in how food is sourced, prepared, and enjoyed. By supporting these trailblazing establishments, you’re not just indulging in incredible meals; you’re also contributing to a more sustainable and vibrant future for this cherished English region. Have you had your own unforgettable sustainable dining experiences in the Cotswolds?

Alfresco

The Field Kitchen ∙ Outdoor dining at The Slaughters Country Inn

24 July 2024 ∙ Today we had the pleasure of enjoying the new alfresco dining concept at The Slaughters Country Inn in Lower Slaughter. Their new edition to the culinary offering is The Field Kitchen, a cute horse box on the lawn in the garden with a Gozney to make delicious flatbreads and bagels.

The taste of rural luxury

The Slaughters Country Inn with its charming garden, beautiful Cotswold stone building, and stunning Cotswold village views has always been a destination for those seeking a taste of rural luxury, and The Field Kitchen is no exception.

Fabulous flatbreads

The menu in The Field Kitchen offers a delightful selection of freshly prepared dishes, perfect for sharing or indulging in solo. Their stonebaked flatbreads stood out especially when we were making our choices, with a crispy base and a variety of tempting toppings. We went for the Whipped Chickpea with artichokes and black garlic, and the Vegan Feta with sun-blushed tomato and chargrilled courgette, a choice we were very happy to have made when we got to the eating part of our outing.

Liam, who was manning the horse box when we arrived and made sure we knew exactly what we could expect from all the dishes on offer, expertly created and cooked our chosen flatbreads in the Gozney.

Utterly delicious

The flatbreads were light and crispy, generously spread, one with tangy tomato sauce, one with airily whipped chickpea. The crumbled vegan feta, with its salty tang, was a delicious rich contrast to the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes and the chargrilled courgette chunks that also gave a sweet and smoky, slightly charred flavour and a welcome textural element. The artichokes brought a meaty texture and a slightly sweet, earthiness that complements the creamy chickpea base beautifully. A scattering of peppery rocket added a fresh kick, the black garlic complex sweetness with a hint of umami, balancing the overall taste profile. Both were sophisticated, contemporary twists on classic Mediterranean flavours… and absolutely delicious!

Also on the menu were toasted bagels, showcasing a creative blend of classic and contemporary ingredients, and four varieties of scrummy Cornish ice cream treats.

Amazing and alfresco

The Field Kitchen at The Slaughters Country Inn is more than just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of the outdoors, good food, and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a leisurely afternoon snack, or a fun-filled family day out, The Field Kitchen will leave you full and satisfied. We can’t wait to return and explore more of the items on the menu.

No need to book for The Field Kitchen, but check out The Slaughters Country Inn’s website for more information about their food, events, and rooms here: www.theslaughtersinn.co.uk