From claws to cocktails! – Kennet Crayfish Gin

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

May 23, 2025

For business travellers who appreciate a fine gin with a compelling backstory, Kennet Crayfish Gin is a standout choice.

This artisan gin, crafted in Berkshire, is not just another botanical blend, it’s a spirit with an environmental mission and a truly distinctive flavour profile.

The brainchild of The Kennet Crayfish Company, the UK’s largest licensed processor of wild-caught American signal crayfish. These invasive crustaceans have wreaked havoc on British waterways since their introduction in the 1970s, damaging riverbanks and disrupting ecosystems. The company, known for its sustainable approach to crayfish harvesting, saw an opportunity to turn this environmental challenge into something extraordinary: a premium gin.

How It’s Made

The gin is produced in collaboration with Hawkridge Distillers, an award-winning distillery renowned for its high-quality spirits. The process begins with the careful selection of crayfish claw shells, which are distilled alongside botanicals sourced from the Kennet Valley. The result is a gin that is both smooth and complex, with a unique crayfish oil infusion that enhances the flavours of mixers rather than competing with them.

Tasting Notes

offering a sophisticated and unexpected flavour profile. It starts with savoury notes of dill, followed by a peppery hit from watercress, and finishes with a burst of fresh lemon zest. The pièce de résistance? A delicate sweetness from the crayfish, which rounds out the gin beautifully. It’s a spirit that surprises and delights, making it a conversation starter at any gathering.

Why Buy It?

A distinctive drink to enjoy after a long day, Kennet Crayfish Gin is an excellent choice. Not only does it offer a premium taste, but it also supports environmental conservation by helping to control the invasive crayfish population. Best served over ice with tonic and a slice of lemon, this gin is as refreshing as it is innovative. Cheers!