Distillers have continued to amaze with the variety of new gins that have been coming out recently. Adding infusions, trying new ingredients... purists will argue they are no longer technically "gin" - just as vodka purists argued the same when flavored vodkas first hit - but I disagree. Keep the new developments coming.

One of the latest is Bulldog, a bold, new London dry gin that has exotic botanicals no other gin has: natural poppy, Dragon Eye, and lotus leaves. (And the rumor is Dragon Eye boosts vitality and sexual stamina. Which, after a few too many gin cocktails, is a necessity.) Add a hint of citrus and you've got a gin with a unique and provocative taste. Perfect for sipping or mixing.

This dog is housed in a sleek, smoke tinted bottle, complete with it's own spiked collar - sure to start a conversation when you pour her a glass. Or mix her one of the unusual cocktails Bulldog has created, using ingredients you may never have considered using in a drink. I've included three for you here, but definitely go to BulldogGin.com for the others.

$30
www.bulldoggin.com

The Colonial Hound (AKA The Brindle)
4-6 oz Bulldog Gin
1 oz Elder Flower Cordial
3/4 oz Simple syrup
1/2 oz Crème de cassis
2 -3 Sage leaves for garnish

Pour Bulldog Gin, Elder Flower Cordial and simple syrup into an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake generously. Pour into a chilled martini glass over ice, and then gently add Crème de cassis. Garnish with sage leaves.


Kinky Tea
6 oz Bulldog Gin
1 Bag Green tea heated/chilled
2 Lemon slices
3/4 oz Simple syrup

Put tea into a glass with Bulldog Gin and heat for 30 seconds. Remove tea bag. Squeeze in one lemon slice and add simple syrup. Transfer to ice-filled shaker. Shake and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with remaining lemon slice.


Cherry Bitch
6 oz Bulldog Gin
1 Bag black currant tea
3-5 Fresh cherries
3/4 oz Lime juice
1 oz Simple syrup
3-4 oz Apple juice
Orange twist for garnish

Muddle cherries in a cocktail glass. In another glass, infuse Bulldog Gin with the black currant tea. Remove the tea bag and transfer to the cocktail glass with the muddled cherries. Add lime juice, simple syrup and apple juice, then transfer to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake generously. Strain into ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with the orange twist.