With the ongoing gin trend attracting a growing number of new varieties to the market, it seems these are being met every step of the way by just as varied a selection of mixers to accompany them.
And Northumberland -based company Fentimans appears to be pretty much cornering this market on its own.
The botanical brewery from Hexham is renowned for its tonics and soft drinks and has come up with a new selection of unique flavours which are winning worldwide acclaim.
News which has the drinks company fizzing with excitement is that its Valencian Orange Tonic Water, a recent newcomer to its range, has become the first tonic to win a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The Valencian Orange, which made its debut only last year, has also just secured top spot at the prestigious Bartenders' Brand Awards 2019 where Fentimans' new Oriental Yuzu Tonic also won a top rank.
In total, the company took a total of 55 accolades at these awards, including a Category Champion win for its Victorian Lemonade.
Marketing director Andrew Jackson said of Valencian Orange's recent success: “This latest award is testament to the emphasis Fentimans places on creating unrivalled and innovative flavour."
He added: "For our brand to be recognised and endorsed by the most influential people in the global drinks industry is incredibly humbling and testament to the dedication and skill of the team we are building here in the North East.”
Fentimans, a local favourite, was established in 1905 by Thomas Fentiman and is now run by his great-great-grandson Eldon Robson.
It is said to be the only UK brewer to use the traditional process of botanical brewing and now produces 12 flavours of soft drinks; 14 mixers and a selection of pre-mixed alcoholic tipples.
In 2018 it was named the UK’s number one soft drinks brand in The Guild of Fine Food’s Best Brands Survey. Another award-winner is its Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water.
Using locally-sourced botanicals in its drinks, it then adds unique flavours: in the case of its new award-winner, the zesty citrus of Valencian oranges - which accommodates the growing popularity of the fruits' bitter taste - is also complemented and balanced by lemon thyme.
The company suggests serving this tonic with Tanqueray Sevilla gin and a sprig of rosemary for a 'Spanish G&T' or with the aperitif Lillet Blanc and an orange wedge for a spritz.
The Valencian Orange Tonic Water is widely available, including in bars around Newcastle such as Babucho, Head of Steam, Stack and Gateshead's By The River Brew as well as in stores including Fenwick. It is also sold at Spanish City in Whitley Bay.
