Ali Bullock is a character. The former head of sponsorship for Red Bull at Formula 1, he arrived on São Miguel, in the Azores, a few years ago with his collection of 490 gins from around the world. Then he turned it into what he says is the largest gin bar in Europe, and the world’s largest private collection.
His Gin Library is located in what will eventually be his Solar Branco hotel. Fifteen euros (or a new bottle for the collection) gets you a gin and tonic with anything on his shelves, and an earful of stores about the making of gin and British drinking culture. He also gives master classes and special VIP tastings. Advance booking is required.
This month, he’s launching his own gin, made on the island (in partnership with Rocha Negra), and called Baleia (“whale” in Portuguese). It’s infused with sea keep, which gives it a light, slightly ocean-ish taste. One euro from every bottle or cocktail sold will go to Bullock’s Azores Ocean Foundation, which is marine mammal conservation.
For more information, visit the Gin Library and Baleia websites.
The Gin Library
Solar Branco Eco Estate
16A Canada Francisco Cabral Rosto do Cão
Livramento
Ponta Delgada
São Miguel
Azores
Phone: +351 919 076 779
Email: hello@solarbranco.com
