Kirkstall bartender masterminds first Corn Exchange gin fair

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Kirkstall's Samantha Fish. Photo: Anete Lusina Photography

A Kirkstall bartender is one of the brains behind Leeds Corn Exchange’s first-ever gin fair.

Co-ordinated by Samantha Fish, from Kirkstall, and Bruce Lerman, The Leeds Gin Fair brings over 40 gin brands serving over 100 gins, gin-related stalls, masterclasses , gin cocktails, music, food and non-alcoholic spirit to create a celebratory evening.

Samantha, a bartender for 16 years, said:

“We have enjoyed great success with Leeds Rum Festival. What we love about it is that our visitors don’t just come for the Rum – they come for the masterclasses, the knowledge, and the chat – we always wanted it to be a celebration and we are proud to have achieved it; now we’re giving Gin the same treatment.”

Sam and Bruce’s events bring together representatives from major and small brands alike and have attracted speakers from all over the world.

“Leeds Gin Fair is no ordinary Gin event,” added Samantha.

“We are bringing together some of Leeds’ most respected bartenders and teaming them up with brands large and small to create signature cocktail serves – all of which is part of the ticket price. No other spirit festivals are doing this and we’re sure that it will appeal to gin and cocktail-lovers alike.”

There will be around 100 free samples of gin and gin cocktails bringing new versions of the tipple to the forefront whilst celebrating the popular.

A masterclass from Foxhole Gin, who focus on using otherwise unused resources and promote sustainability and creativity within the drinks industry is a highlight of the event. Samantha added:

“I’m really excited by our different approach to Gin and I love that we’re able to look at sustainability in the hospitality industry – we even have a stall selling upcycled Gin bottles. Gin is a highly fashionable spirit right now, but it’s so much more than that and that’s what we want to highlight.”

Samantha and Bruce are the duo behind the popular Leeds Rum Festival.

Leeds Gin Fair is at Leeds Corn Exchange on Saturday 13th April from 7pm to midnight. Tickets are on sale now priced at £22 which includes all samples, classes and talks. Book online.

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