Just in case you needed any more proof that summer has definitely started, Edinburgh’s One Square bar has launched its summer terrace campaign. From today until the end of September, their terrace overlooking Festival Square will be One Square Pickering’s Gin Terrace.

Pickering’s Gin already make a bespoke gin for One Square so teaming up for a summer of gin love seems a smart move. As well as new Pickering’s Gin cocktails, there will be a series of demos, tastings and meet the maker sessions over the summer.

Edinburgh Castle views

Tristan Nesbitt, General Manager at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa said: ‘Pickering’s Gin created our popular One Square Gin at their Summerhall Distillery last year and the evolution of our outdoor gin partnership was the natural next step. The new Gin Terrace breathes fresh life into one of Edinburgh’s prime summer spots with its direct views of Edinburgh Castle and location in the heart of the city’s cultural quarter. This is the ideal spot for after-work drinks, weekend socialising with friends or a welcome respite for fatigued festival goers.’

Art installations

The partially-covered terrace has been brought to life with iconic art installations by Pickering’s Gin, fresh summer branding, botanical-themed floristry and vibrant lighting.

Scottish summers being what they are, One Square has also invested in a brand new super-effective heating system to keep guests toasty on the terrace on even the chilliest of days.

A range of small plates will be available on the terrace all day long, featuring dishes such as haggis bonbons, Isle of Mull cheddar and courgette chips served with spiced hummus.

Quirky fun

It has all been done with a quirky sense of fun. As part of the festivities, Pickering’s have created the Marvellously Mixed Musical Martini Maker for the Gin Terrace. A first in the world of gin, this brand new labour-saving device has been designed to perfectly stir mixed drinks to the rhythm of 78rpm.

Matthew Gammell, co-owner of Pickering’s added: ‘We have really enjoyed collaborating with One Square to create an exciting new gin destination that guests and local fans can enjoy. The Marvellously Mixed Musical Martini Maker brings an element of creativity and fun to the Gin Terrace while the summer programme of gin master classes and events will appeal to gin lovers who are always looking to learn new ideas and tips.’

Pickering’s Gin Events

Opening Night

Friday 17th June 2016

Be the first to experience our summer spectacular with a marvellously made Martini on the Terrace at One Square.

Pickering’s own gin ambassador, Paul will be here doing his gin thing, demonstrating The Marvellously Mixed Musical Martini Maker and showcasing a selection of Pickering’s Gin cocktails on the menu with samples to taste.

Martini Master Class

4pm-6pm on Sunday 19th June & Saturday 23rd July, £15 per person

Learn the history of the Martini with some tasty examples to boot!  The class will look at the history of the Martini, its predecessors and various techniques to teach people how to make their perfect martini. Each person will get a flight of Martini samples- using the Marvellously Mixed Martini Maker of course.

Meet the Maker with Marcus Pickering

7pm on Friday 1st July & Friday 2nd September, £10 per person

Marcus Pickering regales an audience with tales of Pickering’s Gin and all its fun machines, triumphs and disasters.

All done while everyone enjoys a perfectly poured P&T, One Square and perhaps a small Martini taster from the machine.

If you love gin then you should check the latest version of the 5pm Ginfographic which shows the vast array of Scottish gins available.