Tried & Tested: Pollination Dovey Native Botanical Gin PGI – A Wild Welsh Wonder

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

August 15, 2025

Crafted in the heart of the Dyfi Valley, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in mid-Wales, the Dovey Native Botanical Gin is a rare example of terroir-driven distilling.

Produced by Dyfi Distillery in the village of Corris, this gin is the result of a deeply personal collaboration between brothers Pete and Danny Cameron. Pete brings decades of botanical knowledge from his work as a hill farmer and forager, while Danny contributes his experience in the drinks industry across the UK and Portugal.

Founded in 2015, Dyfi Distillery set out with a bold ambition: to create gins that not only reflect their native landscape but rival the complexity and texture of fine malt whisky or cognac. Their commitment to precision and provenance has earned them the Best British Gin Trophy twice at the Great British Food Awards, and earlier this year, their flagship Pollination Gin became the first to receive Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status under the UKGI scheme.

What makes Dovey Native Botanical Gin so special is its forage-led production. Each batch is distilled using up to 28 wild botanicals harvested sustainably from the surrounding biosphere—think conifer tips, wildflowers, aromatic herbs, and native fruits. These are distilled in a custom-built still that blends traditional copper pot and column techniques, allowing for exceptional control and clarity.

The result is a gin that’s fresh, clean, and layered with nuance. On the nose, expect a burst of pine, pepper, and subtle aniseed, softened by grassy and floral notes. The palate is elegant and balanced with herbal, citrusy, and gently bitter, with a low sweetness that lets the botanicals shine. It finishes with a crisp, green lift that’s both invigorating and refined.

For serving, simplicity is key. A classic G&T with premium tonic and a twist of lemon or grapefruit peel works beautifully. For a more aromatic experience, garnish with a sprig of thyme or rosemary. It also makes a superb dry martini – just add vermouth and a fennel frond for a wild Welsh twist.

In short, Dovey Native Botanical Gin is a masterclass in place-based distilling. It’s not just a drink—it’s a sensory journey through one of Britain’s most biodiverse landscapes. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or a curious traveller, this is a bottle that deserves your attention.

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

Andrea can be found either in the Travelling For Business office or around the globe enjoying a city break, visiting new locations or sampling some of the best restaurants all work related of course!