RACHEL SMITH
Rachel Smith is the founder of proudly South African brand, Smiths Gin. Although the brand was only launched early last year, it’s already on its way to becoming a local favourite. We sat down with this mover – or should we say boozer – and shaker to find out more about her journey and all things gin.
What distinguishes Smiths Gin from other gin brands? Smiths Gin gives the consumer the opportunity to experiment with locally produced, high-quality, award-winning gins and give back at the same time. The three variants were created based on the flavour types from the gin flavour wheel and adapted for the South African market and their tastes. Elderflower satisfies consumers looking for a light, sweet and delicate floral gin, Citrus is while for the fresh and crisp gin-lovers and the Spice variant is for the bold and rich flavour ginlovers. Plus, a percentage of the proceeds from the sale of these gins go towards helping talented individuals grow themselves through bi-annual bursaries.
All three variants of Smiths Gin won at the 2019 South African Craft Gin Awards. What was that experience like? That was one of the proudest moments of my journey with the brand and a clear indicator that I had developed a high-quality range of gins. Even though I nearly didn’t go to the awards ceremony as I didn’t have the money to book a flight and accommodation in Cape Town, I changed my mind at last minute and decided to go and it was so worth it – my Elderflower and Spice gins received Double Gold and Citrus won Gold! It was surreal to be the brand owner walking up to the stage to receive the awards for my gins. What’s your favourite drink? That’s a hard question for me as there are so many that I like, but if I had to choose one it would have to be a Bramble – 50ml of any Smiths Gin, simple syrup, blackberry syrup and lemon juice. It has a lovely balance between sweet and sour and is so simple to make. It also looks posh!
Gin and craft gin have had a recent surge in popularity. Why do you think that is? The majority of today’s consumers are extremely experimental with what they love and seek both quality and value in their purchases – and gin allows for this at all levels of income. The permutations, status, flavour types and occasions to enjoy gin are endless, whether you’re enjoying a simple G&T or a negroni!
What are your favourite bars in Joburg? Wherever has decent live music, great views and chilled vibes. These include Rockets, Mix Cocktail Bar and The Little Fox Cocktail Bar. I also often find myself at Molly Malones or Papa Pronto for Sunday sundowners.
What are some of the challenges of distilling gin in Joburg? The biggest challenge has been the effect of load shedding on distillation and ensuring that the full production is uninterrupted.
1 www.smithsginza.co.za E @smithsginza D @smithsginza Q @smithsginza
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Slow Sunday morning breakfast reading the paper and having tea
Messy and dirty spaces
Short weekends away camping
Slow internet
Fresh sheets on the bed
Eating dinner after 20h00
Hello Joburg • April 2020 • www.hellojoburg.co.za
Compiled by Amber Richarson Images Supplied
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