Tiny Micro Distillery Poetic License Creates Outstanding Gin
The founder of the small but ambitious Poetic License distillery, Mark Hird, has built an impressive career in hospitality over two decades — rising from trained chef to owner of a dozen venues, including the renowned Roker Hotel in Sunderland. His love of locally made products and quality spirits led him to establish the Sonnet 43 Brewery. The boom in craft distilleries, especially in South Africa, inspired him further. He partnered with Luke Smith, a driven brewer at Sonnet 43, to explore distillation. After devouring books and conducting hands-on experiments, the pair undertook an IBD distilling course in late 2014 and formally launched the distillery project in early 2015. Luke became the full-time distiller at the Roker Hotel, working with Gracie, their 500-litre hybrid still, capable of both pot and column distillation — ideal for producing traditional gin and ultra-smooth vodka.
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Poetic License Picnic Gin 37.5% 70cl
This sweet and creamy gin is rich with strawberry notes and traditional gin botanicals like juniper, coriander, and orris root. Both distilled and infused with botanicals, its vibrant red hue softens to a charming pink when tonic is added.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy over ice with premium elderflower tonic, garnished with a fresh strawberry, or mix into a summer fruit cup with lemonade, fresh fruits, and mint.
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Northern Dry Gin Poetic License 43.2% 70cl
Bold juniper leads the charge, beautifully balanced with warming green cardamom. Persian lime adds vibrant citrus and a hint of floral perfume, complemented by zesty lemon and refreshing eucalyptus. The full list of botanicals remains a closely guarded secret.
Serving Suggestion: Pour over large ice cubes with your favourite premium tonic, garnished with a slice of pink grapefruit.
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Old Tom Gin Poetic License 41.6% 70cl
A sweeter, more peppery twist on the traditional dry gin, this classic style from the 1800s uses no added sugar — the sweetness comes entirely from its carefully chosen botanicals. Rose petals add a floral lift and lend a soft rose-gold tint to the spirit.
Serving Suggestion: Pour two measures over ice, top with premium ginger ale, and garnish with slices of red apple and a stick of cinnamon.
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Graceful Vodka Poetic License 40.4% 70cl
True to its name, this vodka is incredibly smooth and elegant. Crafted from 100% British wheat and distilled seven times, it delivers a silky texture with a clean, subtle flavour — ideal for sipping or mixing.
Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed chilled and neat, or served over ice with your preferred premium mixer.