Coppice Gate

I leant upon a coppice gate,
When Frost was spectre-gray,
And Winter’s dregs made desolate
The weakening eye of day.
The tangled bine-stems scored the sky
Like strings of broken lyres,
And all mankind that haunted nigh
Had sought their household fires…

The Darkling Thrush by Thomas Hardy (1840-1928)

This week marks the end of Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere and it feels very much as if the old season is finally letting go of its tentative grip, like the last of the leaves hanging heavy on the sinewy branches of the trees.

The shortest day of the year is almost upon us yet despite this it’s still just as gratifying to venture out into the great outdoors whether it be a brisk walk in the country or visit to an English country garden or park.

With Winter’s slumber almost upon us nature still perseveres to offer an array of senses to enjoy and likewise our garden inspired English vodka continues to provide enjoyment as you linger by the fireside throughout the dark frosty months until the shoots of Spring emerge.