A WOMAN with a passion for gin has launched a new speciality to thank the people of Salisbury for their support.

Kate Griffin unveiled Spire Gin on the back of her first venture which saw her gain praise from the city’s gin drinkers.

“I started Test Valley Gin back in February and it is going really well but I’ve had so much support from people in Salisbury that I wanted to make a gin for the city.”

The gin was launched at a special event at the White Horse in Downton, on Tuesday, after months of taste testing alongside Alex Seaton from Alexander Chocolate, based in Downton.

“On this one I am collaborating with head chef and chocolatier Alex Seaton as he knows the really good restaurants and can get the herbs for me.

“It has been quite crazy as I got in contact with Alex after I saw him in Salisbury Life magazine as I knew he would be able to help me and it has gone from there.”

After trying an array of flavours Kate and Alex settled on the citric taste of the herb lemon verbena, with the herbs being sourced from the Pig Inn, in Brockenhurst.

“I am hoping that people will like it and that pubs and restaurants will be interested in stocking the gin,” Kate added.

Kate, from Monxton, also hopes that local shops will be interested in stocking the gin to give people the opportunity to enjoy a bottle or two at home.

The 38-year-old started distilling gin after years of conversations with her husband Matthew about making their own spirit.

“I have always drunk a lot of gin and my mum makes sloe gin so I got my interest there, but my husband has always been keen to do something with gin but he doesn’t drink.”

The gin will also help Spire Smiles, with a donation from every bottle sold given to the charity which supports children and adults who have a cleft to give confidence and to help in reaching their potential.