GIN-LOVERS are in for a treat as a North Yorkshire distillery has launched a new initiative enabling enthusiasts to make their own tipple.

Derek and Carol Harle, the couple behind the artisan Spirit of Masham gin, have opened a ‘Make Your Own Gin Experience’ at their Masham distillery.

The experience will give participants the chance to immerse themselves in three-hours of gin wonderland, including a tour of the Spirit of Masham distillery and a potted history of the drink.

Visitors will be able to compare samples of geneva, which bears closest resemblance to the original spirit, with a modern gin and tonic, before becoming their own gin alchemists using one of a dozen gleaming mini copper alembics or stills.

Enthusiasts will be able to choose from a treasure trove of 100 different botanicals, everything from spices, seeds, berries and dried fruit, to blend into their own concoction alongside the compulsory juniper berry base.

Head distiller Jake Wilson will also provide guidance on choosing the right mix of botanicals to balance the flavours.

At the end of the distilling process, the budding gin-makers can take home their own 70cl bottle of gin complete with personalised label.

The distillery’s new attraction follows a successful first year since the launch of the Spirit of Masham gin by co-owners Mr and Mrs Harle, who also run Corks and Cases wine merchant in Masham.

Their gin is handcrafted in small batches using the London Dry Gin method and distilled using botanicals from the couple’s own brand of Masala Chai tea and hops, the latter in homage to Masham’s brewing heritage.

Mr Harle said: “It’s fantastic to open another visitor experience alongside the tours at both of Masham’s popular breweries.

“We’re a small team who are passionate about our local area as well as the craft of gin-making.

“Therefore it seemed a natural next step to share that passion with other like-minded enthusiasts.

“As well as individual visitors, the experience is ideal for groups of up to 12 people particularly if they are staying nearby for a weekend.”

Although gin can trace its roots back to at least the 17th century, it has enjoyed something of a renaissance in recent years, marked by a proliferation of dedicated gin bars across the the region.

Masham’s three-hour experience costs £95 per person including the bespoke bottle, three gin-based drinks and distillery tour.

Visitors can book at weekends or certain midweek evenings.