Heston Blumenthal is introducing a new gin to the Heston from Waitrose private brand range and it has an unusual serving suggestion – olive oil. The Lazy Sunshine Gin is a herbaceous take on the popular spirit, inspired by Heston’s fondness of the south of France, where, at the age of 16, his love of food began. 

The gin is infused with Mediterranean sweet basil, rosemary, thyme and lavender botanicals on top of a robust and fragrant Italian juniper, citrus, and spice botanical base. Heston’s top tip for serving the gin is to enjoy it with Mediterranean Tonic, ice, a Nocellara olive and, if you’re feeling adventurous –  a drizzle of olive oil. 

Heston Blumenthal says: ‘Open this bottle and what do you smell? Basil, rosemary, thyme, lavender and Juniper. For me, those aromas are Provence in a glass – the place that first inspired me to be a chef.  And how will I be drinking it in the lazy sunshine? With the addition of a little olive oil to give it body and intensity. Try it – you’ll like it. Santé.’

John Vine, Waitrose spirits buyer says: ‘This gin is exceptional – delicious and aromatic on its own, but also amazing with a drizzle of good quality olive oil over the top- the Waitrose No.1 Chianti Olive Oil is a perfect match. On the nose, the fragrant juniper comes through and balances perfectly with the subtle notes of lavender. When you taste the gin, the fresh juniper and savory herbal notes blend together beautifully. The finish is dry like a classic gin but with floral and herbal notes. The olive oil brings out all of these flavors, making it a show-stopping cocktail to have as an aperitif while enjoying the late summer sunshine in the garden.’

The Heston from Waitrose Lazy Sunshine Gin £25/70cl is now available in-store and online on Waitrose Cellar.