Do we have any Sloe Gin fans here?

hyperfish

Another one today. This is destined for Christmas gifts. Need to get some hip flask size Kilner bottles.

                                                                       

nheather

Thought I would try sloe gin this year, although probably left it a little late.

I have sloes, gin and a jar. The sloes were picked locally, washed and then frozen.

First observation - I have read that freezing is meant to simulate first frost which brings out the flavour and causes the sloes to split (saving you the trouble of pricking them).

My sloes have been frozen but the skin has not split - should I be concerned - does it mean that the sloes aren't ripe?

Cheers,

Nigel

hyperfish

Mine have never split but once thawed they are softer. You should see the gin taking on the colour each day after inverting the jar. The one in the pic above is already purple and is now set aside. AFAIK if they are black, they are ripe.

nheather

Thanks for that.

Do you pierce your sloes?

Also is two months sufficient?

Cheers,

Nigel

hyperfish

No, straight from thawed. The skins are soft enough to let the flavour out.

I usually start mid October so that's 2.5 to Xmas and there is plenty of flavour in there. I would guess that if you invert the jar on alternate days, that could help things along but I don't feel the need after the first week.

hyperfish

For when I give some as a gift.

                                                                       

nheather

All started now.

Fingers crossed that it turns out great.

I've decided not to add sugar yet - I'm going with the sugar syrup method when it is ready so I can get the sweetness to taste.

Cheers,

Nigel

hyperfish

Giving some of last year's to a colleague. Impressed with the colour and clarity.

                                                                               
                                                                       

IronGiant

Is that filtered at all, or just carefully decanted?

toddy28

My uncle who is in his 70s makes the most amazing gin and vodka raspberry , it’s our favourite Christmas drink , the old bugger won’t tell anyone the recipe , I’ve got to wait till he dies and he will leave it to me  [emoji16]