Care home residents help launch bespoke gin

Residents at a luxury care home in Melksham marked the launch of a new bespoke gin with a special tasting event with jazz music.

Blenheim House, part of the Berkley Care Group, held a celebration to introduce the care group’s new gin, Golden Hour.

The event was planned through a collaboration between Events Manager Chris Preston, Head Chef Linda Netherwood and Hospitality Manager Donna Shaw, who worked together to create an experience for residents, families and guests.

The evening was made memorable by the attendance of Andrew Parsons, Master Distiller at award-winning distillers Sky Wave.

Andrew shared the story behind Golden Hour’s creation, explaining how a coachload of Berkley residents visited the distillery earlier in the year to explore botanicals and contribute their flavour preferences. Guests were invited to sample a small taste of the gin neat, discovering its smoothness and the distinct top notes Andrew described.

Chris Preston said, “Golden Hour is a London Dry gin created with Sky Wave and developed with direct input from residents across Berkley homes. Named after the weekly Golden Hour gatherings that bring residents together for conversation and connection, the gin was crafted to capture the warmth, creativity and togetherness that define life within the group.”

The event brought together a wide mix of attendees, including Melksham’s Mayor Saffi Rabey, residents, family members, members from Berkley Care and Emily Bragg from Mini Concerts, which provides musical tributes and performances for the home.

Chris said, “Guests enjoyed a backdrop of soft live jazz performed by a Mini Concerts singer while sampling an array of beautifully presented canapés and Golden Hour gin cocktails. The favourites of the evening were the Blenheim Bramble and the Autumnal Gin Fizz, each crafted using Golden Hour and garnished with seasonal touches.”

Golden Hour gin will now be used at future Blenheim House events and for pre-dinner drinks shared by residents, families and friends.

Chris added, “It was a truly special evening. The atmosphere was warm, social and full of conversation. We are so proud to have been part of bringing this gin to life and can’t wait to feature it at future events.”