For those with a borderline alcoholic love of gin and an interest in cod-Victorian broadening of horizons, for a few years now the Hendrick’s tent (this year Brunswick Terrace’s Angel House) has been the safe bet of the Fringe.

This talk, with the Hendrick’s Brand Ambassador Duncan McRae, thankfully proved neither a mindless attempt at corporate publicity nor the embarrassing theatrics of an out-of-work actor. McRae came across as a highly knowledgeable gin enthusiast who let the fascinating story of the drink do the talking.

Going way back to the earliest origins of the booze derived from juniper berries by ancient Babylonians, McRae offered many interesting facts along the way.

Looking at links with alchemy (attempting to turn liquids into gold) and the Philosopher’s Stone, the Magick of Aleister Crowley (who else?) and the search for the Elixir of Life as well as juniper’s uses during the Black Death, this was a sprawling, epic tale. Looking at gin’s ingredients, each plant gained its own character: elderberries are apparently evil, while caraway protects you from thieves.

A nice potted history behind the tasty beverage, this talk was more successful (and infinitely more charming) than a hundred adverts aimed at selling gin to festival goers.