A giant Jawbox gin celebrates reopening of Belfast’s top hotel

A top hotel chain in Ireland has teamed up with a drinks giant to unveil one of the world’s largest bottles of gin – a 73cm bottle containing a staggering 32 litres.

Nearly 1,000 measures of the spirit are included in the Jawbox Giant’s Edition – the star attraction of a new G & Tea afternoon tea offering in the Hastings-owned Grand Central Hotel in Belfast.

Holding almost 46 standard bottles of gin, the huge bottle weighs more than 50kg. The G & Tea experience in Ireland’s tallest cocktail bar, The Observatory in the Grand Central, is supported by Tourism Northern Ireland and the ‘Embrace a Giant Spirit’ promotional campaign.

It takes its name and inspiration from Jonathan Swift’s well-known tale, Gulliver's Travels, in which the writer was said to have been inspired by the sight of the Belfast Hills, which he felt resembled a sleeping giant safeguarding the city. 

“We are delighted to mark our reopening by embracing our giant spirit, in partnership with Jawbox and Tourism NI, by showcasing one of the world’s largest bottles of gin,” said Stephen Meldrum, general manager of the Grand Central.

“We have created a truly unique visitor experience for our guests who can enjoy our new G & Tea and find out more about one of our most famous local legends.

”Northern Ireland is rich in stories and myths and we are excited to bring part of this to life as we celebrate the reawakening of the giant that is our very own tourism and hospitality industry.” 

Founder of Jawbox Small Batch Gin, Gerry White, added: “We are thrilled to launch the Jawbox Giant’s Edition in collaboration with Hastings Hotels. The Grand Central Hotel is the perfect home for the bottle, with stunning views overlooking the Belfast Hills that inspired the story behind our Giant's Edition Gin and from which one of our key botanicals, Black Mountain Heather, is carefully gathered.”

The Jawbox G & Tea, including delicate sandwiches, scones and sweet treats, is served daily from 1pm – 5pm and is priced at £40 or £50 to include the exclusive Jonathan’s Twist Cocktail.

Pictured at the launch, ahead of reopening on 24th May, are (seated) Sylvia Trueick, Food & Drink Experience Development Executive Officer of Tourism Northern Ireland, Gerry White, Founder of Jawbox Small Batch Gin and (standing) Stephen Meldrum, General Manager of the Grand Central Hotel.