Hendrick’s Gin has announced a new series of short films, celebrating Scottish creators and innovators. Titled An Unusual Slice of Scotland, the series is hosted by Hendrick’s Global Brand Ambassador Ally Martin. As Ally travels his home country, he meets with a collection of one-of-a-kind individuals who create projects and have adventures inspired by expressions of Hendrick’s.

Following the third episode with miniatures artist Jacki Gordon, we are excited to exclusively premiere the fourth, The Hendrick’s Guide to Botany. In this chapter, Ally Martin travels to the Cardross Estate in Port of Menteith to explore nature with herbalist and forager Lauren Lochrie.

Lauren runs her own business called Herbal Homestead, which focuses on outdoor education and natural wellness. As she takes Ally around, pointing out plants and discussing the biodiversity of the area, she explains that her practice was not one she grew up with. But learning about the power of nature opened her mind to the world around her, and for the past eight years or so she has become dedicated to foraging. Finding a deep peace amongst the soil, she values the self sufficiency and community of the forest. With a strong knowledge of what is edible and medicinal, she explains the flavours and benefits of various plants. As they stumble upon dried out Jelly Ear mushrooms, Lauren suggests they hydrate them in Hendrick’s Gin — creating a Turkish delight. Sitting down after their adventure, the pair enjoys their snack with a cocktail of foraged bramble leaf syrup and Hendrick’s Amazonia. Embracing the seasonal wonders of the wild, they cheers.

Watch the video…