Examining the key role that coriander can play in gin
Ben Marston, Puddingstone Distillery

Often cited as the second most important botanical in gin, we discuss its application, whether its future role will be defined by distillers or other external factors and sample gins each with a different approach to coriander.

Founded by husband and wife team Ben and Kate Marston, Puddingstone Distillery, the first gin distillery in Hertfordshire opened its doors in 2016. The development of classic gin styles, with contemporary twists, a strong sustainability ethos and collaborations with wildlife and conservation trusts in alignment with their “outdoors brand”, has led to much acclaim.

With over 25 International spirits awards, and accolades including winner of the 2019 World’s Best Martini Challenge and 2021 Gin Guide Distillery of the Year, this tiny distillery is forging a reputation for innovation and quality.

Over the last few years, Puddingstone Distillery has been the first to use a non-native invasive plant species as a botanical. In 2019 they embarked on a project using juniper cultivated in their home county and have recently launched a gin that uses ultrasonic frequencies to break down botanicals prior to distillation. They stress they are not scientists, just creative and curious.