Broadcaster James May has expanded his James Gin portfolio with the launch of JG 05 California Dreamgin. This unconventional gin, distilled with an intriguing blend of mushrooms and patchouli, offers a unique take on the classic spirit, inspired by May’s love for California’s laid-back vibe and countercultural history.
May has spent many years exploring the roads of California in fast cars, for Top Gear and The Grand Tour, but this time, he returned to the Golden State for a different kind of adventure: “Selling my gin of the people to the land of the free,” as he puts it.
California, with its sunny climate and a surprisingly strong demand for his gins, inspired May to team up with Hugh Anderson at Downton Distillery to craft a new, distinctly Californian flavour for his growing audience.
This unconventional gin, distilled with an intriguing blend of mushrooms and patchouli, offers a unique take on the classic spirit…
From fast cars to craft spirits
The creation of California Dreamgin was all about capturing the essence of the state’s counterculture while experimenting with bold, unexpected flavours. The gin is distilled with girolle mushrooms, known for their light fruity and peppery notes, balanced with the earthy, woody aroma of patchouli.
Bottled at 40% ABV, California Dreamgin joins an already eclectic line-up that includes Asian Parsnip, American Mustard, and the uniquely British London Drizzle, inspired by the aroma of rain-soaked London streets. This latest release, however, is a first in the collection to be certified vegan by the Vegan Society, making it a compassionate, plant-based option for gin lovers.
According to distiller Hugh Anderson, “This is a true umami gin, with girolle mushrooms providing a hint of apricot, while the patchouli lingers at the back of the mouth. The savoury, herbaceous notes are further enhanced by oregano, which balances out the bright citrus flavours from coriander and lemon peel.”
James May’s California Dreamgin is available from www.jamesgin.com, priced £35.
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Brother’s Bond Bourbon has launched in the UK, bringing its premium four-grain American whiskey portfolio to British shelves for the first time. Founded in 2020, the celebrity-fuelled brand has been making waves Stateside with accessible yet layered bourbon and rye, distinguished by hands-on blending, careful barrel selection, and a commitment to regenerative agriculture. Co-founders Ian…
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Hackstons of Knightsbridge is offering a curated selection of last-minute luxury drinks gifts certain to elevate the most romantic night of the year. In-house expert Guillaume Ragot has selected five outstanding bottles that tick all the right boxes, from celebratory sparkling wines, to memorable sippers, and luxury after-dinner…
The Luxe Review 
Broadcaster James May has expanded his James Gin portfolio with the launch of JG 05 California Dreamgin. This unconventional gin, distilled with an intriguing blend of mushrooms and patchouli, offers a unique take on the classic spirit, inspired by May’s love for California’s laid-back vibe and countercultural history.
May has spent many years exploring the roads of California in fast cars, for Top Gear and The Grand Tour, but this time, he returned to the Golden State for a different kind of adventure: “Selling my gin of the people to the land of the free,” as he puts it.
California, with its sunny climate and a surprisingly strong demand for his gins, inspired May to team up with Hugh Anderson at Downton Distillery to craft a new, distinctly Californian flavour for his growing audience.
From fast cars to craft spirits
The creation of California Dreamgin was all about capturing the essence of the state’s counterculture while experimenting with bold, unexpected flavours. The gin is distilled with girolle mushrooms, known for their light fruity and peppery notes, balanced with the earthy, woody aroma of patchouli.
Bottled at 40% ABV, California Dreamgin joins an already eclectic line-up that includes Asian Parsnip, American Mustard, and the uniquely British London Drizzle, inspired by the aroma of rain-soaked London streets. This latest release, however, is a first in the collection to be certified vegan by the Vegan Society, making it a compassionate, plant-based option for gin lovers.
According to distiller Hugh Anderson, “This is a true umami gin, with girolle mushrooms providing a hint of apricot, while the patchouli lingers at the back of the mouth. The savoury, herbaceous notes are further enhanced by oregano, which balances out the bright citrus flavours from coriander and lemon peel.”
James May’s California Dreamgin is available from www.jamesgin.com, priced £35.
Karen Gillan fronts Compass Box Hedonism 2026 limited edition Scotch whisky
Actor Karen Gillan has been unveiled as The Muse for Scotch whiskymaker Compass Box, gracing the label art for the company’s upcoming 2026 Hedonism release. A fan favourite in blockbuster franchises such as Doctor Who (Amy Pond), Guardians of the Galaxy (Nebula) and Jumanji (Ruby Roundhouse), Gillan has become one of Scotland’s most recognisable international…
Celebrity-founded Brother’s Bond Bourbon makes UK debut with starry four-grain whiskey range
Brother’s Bond Bourbon has launched in the UK, bringing its premium four-grain American whiskey portfolio to British shelves for the first time. Founded in 2020, the celebrity-fuelled brand has been making waves Stateside with accessible yet layered bourbon and rye, distinguished by hands-on blending, careful barrel selection, and a commitment to regenerative agriculture. Co-founders Ian…
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