The Angel’s gin collaboration
For business owner Michael Wignall, certain flavours are more than just ingredients; they are memories. The sharp elegance of yuzu and the distinct perfume of kaffir lime represent a lifelong respect for the culture of the Far East—a philosophy of “nothing without reason” that now sits at the heart of our latest gin collaboration.
We have always believed that The Angel at Hetton is a place where different worlds meet: the rugged landscape of the Yorkshire Dales and a refined, intentional approach to everything we serve. This premium gin, created in partnership with the award-winning Shed One Distillery, is the latest expression of that connection.
A Balanced Multi-Sensory Profile
This artisan Yorkshire gin is a fresh, aromatic spirit that reflects the multi-sensory experience of our destination, affecting scent and taste in equal measure.
The botanical profile is a thoughtful dialogue between Michael’s influences and our surroundings:
The Far East: Fresh Sansho Pepper provides a subtle, lingering heat, while Yuzu and Kaffir Lime offer a sophisticated citrus brightness.
The Yorkshire Dales: These international notes are grounded by elderflower foraged directly from the Dales surrounding The Angel.
In the Words of business owner Michael,
“I have always had a passion for the Far East, in particular Japan and their respect for ingredients,” Michael explains. “The combination of the sharpness and elegance of yuzu, combined with the distinctly perfume flavour of kaffir lime, finished with the delicate and floral flavour and aroma of elderflower, for me is reminiscent of my childhood memories. Each flavour enhances the other and creates a really fresh and fragrant gin. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.”
This dedication to “respect for ingredients” is the same standard that guides Michael’s kitchen, where dishes often start as drawings to ensure every element has a purposeful role in the final harmony.
The Craft of Collaboration
At The Angel, we don’t simply “order” a product; we build relationships with makers who share our obsession with quality. Shed One Distillery mirrors our own commitment to purposeful craft, allowing us to develop a gin that feels honest rather than mass-produced.
The Perfect Serve
To truly appreciate the fragrance and texture of this gin, we recommend serving it over ice with a premium Indian tonic water. The final detail is a garnish of a single slice of salted plum. This choice reflects the Japanese influence found throughout our restaurant design and culinary ethos, where even the smallest detail is chosen to contribute to the whole.
Whether you are joining us for a luxury stay in North Yorkshire or settling at the bar after a day in the fells, this gin offers a quiet, fragrant moment of reflection—a bridge between the Dales we call home and the Far East influences that inspire us.
