Willow bark connects Salford Original Dry Gin with the city's industrial history. Released on 8 February 2026, it was the first gin from a distillery known for rum since 2018. The founders used willow as more than decoration: it recalls the raw materials, waterways and manufacturing history that shaped Salford during the Industrial Revolution. Small-batch distillation at 40% vol. combines the bark with juniper, citrus peel and lemon balm. The aroma begins cleanly with pine and fresh lemon. Lemon balm makes the citrus softer and more leafy through the middle, while willow contributes a restrained woody bitterness to the finish. The recipe remains recognisably London Dry in shape, with no fruit sweetness obscuring the juniper. The Gin Masters awarded it Gold in its launch year, a strong start for this new branch of the Salford range.

Only four botanical families are disclosed, yet each has a clear task. Juniper supplies shape, peel gives lift, lemon balm softens the centre and willow leaves a fine bitter trace. This economy suits a debut gin intended for a straightforward tonic drink. Nothing in the published recipe needs to be embellished to explain its clean, urban character.

For a direct G&T, pour 4 cl over clear ice and lengthen with 10 cl of neutral tonic. Set lemon peel and a lemon-balm leaf between the cubes; place another strip of peel and two leaves beside the highball. This pairing keeps the willow dry while opening the fresher citrus side.

Willow provides fine bitterness without hardening the palate. Lemon balm softens the woody line and peel maintains momentum, making the concise recipe complete.