TOAST the first birthday of Manchester Gin at a bar so secret we’re not telling you where it is just yet! The exclusive anniversary shindig is on Thursday, May 11 (from 6pm) at Behind Closed Doors in the Northern Quarter (you probably guessed it would be there, oh yes and it’s definitely gin-fuelled).
The first 50 folk to attend will each receive a ‘special money-can’t-buy gift’. The catch though? If you want to come in you need to know the secret passcode. Keep your eye on social media when all will be revealed.
ToM knows but isn't telling. One clue that doesn’t help much. The new cocktail bar we are talking about is in a basement on Oldham Street and promises debauchery and indulgence.
Manchester Gin branded glasses, special edition miniatures and commemoration labels are all being created in celebration of its first successful year, and there’s certainly plenty to celebrate.
The brand, created four years ago by Jennie Wiggins and Seb Heeley (above), is stocked in over 250 venues, has been nominated for a Great British Food award and was crowned Manchester’s favourite gin beating off stiff competition from Belgian Copperhead Gin and Mediterranean Gin Mare in a taste-off at the Pen & Pencil.
The pair’s romance had blossomed over a shared passion for gin (ToM understands their feelings). Jennie tells us: “We wanted to ensure our Northern upbringing was included within the gin, and this is represented by the use of dandelion and burdock root, which is foraged from Chorlton.”
Manchester Gin will also be rewarding its most dedicated fans through the powers of social media with the newly created 'Great Manchester Gin Trail’, taking place every day from Monday May 8 to the day of its big birthday bash, and will ask members of the public to follow clues and hunt down a member of the Manchester Gin team who will be waiting with a limited edition bottle of Manchester Gin as a prize.
For more details head to Facebook or Twitter to get involved.