Pinkster Gin launches raspberry by-product to ‘pimp up Prosecco’

Pink gin brand Pinkster has launched a third and final product created using the leftover fruit from its distillation process – a raspberry spirit designed to be used in cocktails.

Pinkster’s new Pinkster Royale, a 24% ABV raspberry spirit, is the third and last product to be launched using the leftover raspberries from distilling, according to co-founder of Pinkster Will Holt. 

Speaking to the drinks business earlier this year, he said that the product – a cassis-style drink made with raspberries instead of blackcurrant – and with no added sugar, will be aimed at both the on- and off-trade.

Its name, a reference to the cocktail Kir Royale, reiterates that it’s designed to be added to fizz-based cocktails, or as managing director Stephen Marsh puts it: “to pimp up your Prosecco”.

Sourcing its raspberries from fellow Cambridge-based business Sunclose Farm, the pink gin brand also sells inebriated Boozy Berries and Gin Jam using leftover fruit.

Mash commented: “There’s a clue in the name. Our latest tipple will pimp up your Prosecco with a delicious raspberry hit.

“Initial trade reaction to Pinkster Royale, from our local trials, has been mighty positive, with outlets telling us that people like the whole backstory along with the luscious, fruity flavour. It’s a shame to see anything go to waste, but what with Boozy Berries and Gin Jam, I think we’ve now finally squeezed every last drop from the fresh raspberries that make Pinkster.”

“At a time when pink spirits are all the rage, we’re quick to champion the fact that our botanicals include raspberries. Real ones. The ones that grow on bushes. As a pink pioneer, our view is that it’s the flavour not the colour that matters. The Pinkster Royale launch just reinforces that we’re an innovative, premium brand dealing in fresh fruit.”