Anything James May can do; Richard Hammond will have a go at.
The diminutive Grand Tourist has crafted his own single malt English Whisky with a little help from some of his other friends and taken on his fellow former Top Gear presenters at their own profitable sideline.
Ratio Gin and Iron Ridge whisky are said to combine Hammond’s ‘distinctive adventurous flair’ with Hawkridge’s time-honoured craftsmanship and technical expertise.
The gin was inspired by Hammond’s deep connection to the Lake District and his appreciation for botanical balance and was developed by Hawkridge Distillers in a converted 17th century barn in the North Wessex Downs village of Hampstead Norreys in Berkshire.
The multi award-winning distillery and contract distiller also produces The Victorian Aphrodisiac Blend London Dry Gin, Cherry Orchard Gin, The Guards Gin, The Blowing Hole Nettle and Blackberry Gin, The Blowing Hole Crab Apple and Royal Ginger Gin, English Grain vodka and a new Caribbean Blend Spiced Rum.
The ‘Hamster’s’ new Ratio Gin features local ingredients including bilberries, wild gorse flowers and a hint of honey.
The bottle design – shaped like a gear – pays homage to both engineering and craftsmanship which are passions shared by the gin collaborators Iron Ridge is matured in rare ex-Bourbon casks.
James Gurney, master distiller and co-founder of Hawkridge Distillers, commented:
“For as long as I can remember, Top Gear – and later, The Grand Tour – have been among my absolute favourite shows. Like so many fans, I often imagined what it might be like to be the ‘fourth’ member of the trio, to share a laugh, a journey or even just a pint or G&T with Jeremy, James and Richard.
“Now, after more than a year of meticulous planning, countless creative sessions, memorable meals – and a fair amount of secret-keeping – I’m thrilled to finally share the beginning of something extraordinary. We’re about to soft launch a truly exciting new range of spirits, developed in collaboration with the iconic ‘Hamster’.
“Richard’s spirit range reflects his vibrant personality and relentless pursuit of excellence, designed to elevate your every moment with a touch of adventure and a sip of history.”
Ahead of the global release in September 2025, the two spirits will make their debut through the distillery’s partners in Bristol, Bath and the Cotswolds.
Hammond is the last of the famous The Grand Tour trio to enter the drinks industry. Co-star James May boasts a range of gins including Asian Parsnips, Navy Strength London Drizzle (with scent of petrichor and recent rain) and mushroom-infused California Dreamgin’ JG.05, 40% ABV, £36.95.
Vishal Patel, formerly global whisky director at Distill Ventures, has been named global CEO of the super-premium brand. He worked on Mr Black and Seedlip from pre-launch to acquisition as well as overseeing investments for whisky producers such as Japanese distillery Kanosuke and English brand Fielden. He also founded Siollasa apertif.
May founded the brand in 2021 with Hugh Anderson of Downton Distillery, with the pair producing the gin in Wiltshire. Currently available in more than 40 markets worldwide, May Gin claims to have surpassed the £1 million (US$1.2m) sales mark.
Fellow former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson also owns a collection beers and ciders under his Hawkstone brand. For more information on James May Gin, please visit: www.jamesgin.com and for more information on Hawkridge Distillers, please visit: www.hawkridgedistillers.com.
Author Bio:
Kevin Pilley is a former professional cricketer and chief staff writer of PUNCH magazine. His humour, travel, food and drink work appear worldwide, and he has been published in over 800 titles.
Photographs courtesy of Hawkridge Distillers and James May Gin
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