First Impressions
Adnams' approach to sloe gin is characteristically thoughtful. The Copper House Dry Gin — itself an excellent six-botanical expression — provides the base, and frozen sloes are steeped alongside flaked almonds, which contribute the marzipan character that defines this expression. The freezing of the sloes before steeping is a technique that bursts the berry skins, allowing faster and more complete extraction of colour, flavour, and tannins. The addition of flaked almonds is the inspired touch — amplifying the natural almond-like quality of the sloe berry's stone fruit heritage.
The Distillery
The Copper House Distillery in Southwold produces this sloe gin by steeping frozen sloes and flaked almonds in their standard Copper House Dry Gin. The result is a ruby red liqueur at 26% ABV that retains recognisable gin character beneath the fruit.
Tasting
The nose offers gentle aromas of plums, cherries, and red rope liquorice — hedgerow fruit in its most appealing form. A soft, gentle hint of marzipan from the flaked almonds adds a distinctive aromatic quality that sets this apart from sloe gins that rely on fruit alone.
On the palate, the balance is excellent. Jammy hedgerow fruit and the natural bitterness of the sloes are perfectly integrated — neither the sweetness nor the tartness dominates. The palate is smooth and round, with a luscious, creamy texture that the Copper House base contributes. The marzipan quality from the almonds weaves through the fruit, adding depth and complexity.
The finish carries marzipan notes — warm, comforting, and gently persistent. The almond addition elevates what might otherwise be a straightforward sloe gin into something with genuine character.
How to Drink It
Serve neat, slightly chilled, or in a Sloe Gin Fizz with lemon juice and soda. The marzipan character also makes it an excellent addition to mulled wine in winter. For a simple but effective serve, top with prosecco for a hedgerow bellini.
The Bottom Line
Adnams Copper House Sloe Gin earns a 7.5 for applying the brewery-distillery's characteristic precision to the sloe gin category. The frozen sloe technique and flaked almond addition are thoughtful touches that produce a sloe gin of genuine quality. The marzipan character provides distinction, and the Copper House base ensures real gin character underpins the fruit. At around £25, it represents good value for a sloe gin of this quality.
