Spirits of ecstasy as New Forest distillers launch new gin to celebrate 120 years of Rolls-Royce

New Forest distillery 820 Spirits has launched a new gin in partnership with the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (RREC) to mark the iconic carmaker’s 120th anniversary.

The Whisper is an 82-day oak-aged gin with notes of juniper, citrus and Sichuan pepper, created as an exclusive batch.

It’s inspired by and named after a small figurine that was the precursor to the Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy.

The figurine was a tribute commissioned by the 2nd Baron Montagu of Beaulieu in honour of his love, Eleanor Thornton – and that’s where 820 Spirits comes in.

Jonny Simpson, co-founder of 820 Spirits, says: “We’re delighted to be a partner for such a prestigious brand, especially one that we have a personal connection with.

“Our links with the Montagu family and Beaulieu go way back, as both of our great-grandparents worked on the estate.

“Our great-great-grandad was the gamekeeper of the Montagu estate for the 2nd Baron Montagu, our great-grandad was a butler, and our great-grandma cooked for Lord Montagu the 3rd.

“Our great-grandmother’s recipe is the same one we use in our sloe gin.”

Tom Simpson, co-founder and chief distiller at 820 Spirits, added: “In every bottle of The Whisper, we capture this essence of power and grace, crafting a gin as timeless as its muse.

“Sleek, smooth and full of depth, it’s a journey for the senses from the first sip to the last.

“The gin has a bold juniper foundation, complemented by bright lemon citrus and a hint of fruity Sichuan pepper.”

The Whisper will be launched at a Rolls-Royce member event later this month for £100.

The RREC is also soon to release a 400-page hardback book, 120 Years of Rolls-Royce, featuring among others 820 Spirits.

• 820spirits.com