LUX November 2017

LUX - November 2017 23 A new gin created by Partridges, the world-renowned grocer to the Queen, has launched in the UK. Chelsea Flower London Dry Gin is the first gin created by the English Grocer and Royal Warrant, Holder who celebrate its 45th Anniversary in 2017. The name ‘Chelsea Flower Gin’ commemorates the historic association between the Kings Road flower nurseries, which date back to the 17th Century, and the location of Partridges’ flagship store in Duke of York Square. Partridges, the independent family-run food market, was founded by Sir Richard Shepherd and first opened its door on Sloane Street, Chelsea in May 1972. In 1979 Sir Richard was elected to the House of Commons and in 1981 his younger brother John, who had joined the business as a student in 1972, took over the reins and is the current Managing Director. In 1994 the shop was granted a Royal Warrant as Grocers to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and in 2008 John Shepherd was appointed the President of the Royal Warrant Holders Association. The Association comprises 800 firms who supply the Royal household on a regular basis. In 2012Partridges launched its Chelsea Flower Collection of upmarket groceries including floral teas, chocolates, fudge, biscuits, jelly and a range of gifts. This established distiller has created a glorious celebratory spirit in Chelsea Flower Gin, a floral, refreshing spirit which is ideally pared with a luxury tonic water or can be served as part of an innovative cocktail. The firm itself had the same idea, and as such, in June Partridges challenged local bars and restaurants to design a new Chelsea Flower Cocktail using their new gin. The winner, Pearson Chase from The Cocktail Service, created a glorious flower and bee inspired cocktail called Apidaes Are Here Again! Although this luxurious cocktail would make a delicious addition to any party, the gin itself is so smooth and sweet that it can also be enjoyed alone. Each limited edition bottle is hand distilled slowly, hand filled, numbered by hand and sealed with wax near Thurso, Scotland before being shipped to Partridges. Chelsea Flower Gin went on sale in Partridges’ two central London stores and online at www.partridges. co.uk in May 2017. A new gin created by Partridges, the world-renowned grocer to the Queen, has launched in the UK. Chelsea Flower Gin - Launched in Celebration of Partridges 45th Anniversary “Although this luxurious cocktail would make a delicious addition to any party.”