For those of us who remember wanting to run away and join the circus at a young age, the big top holds a special place in our hearts. Not that I ever wanted to go to clown college and learn how to emerge from a Volkswagen Beetle (too claustrophobic) or master the finer points of walking a tightrope (scared of heights). It was more the thrill of stowing away with the elephants and seeing the marvel of it all on a nightly basis.

So while I won’t be applying to Circus Vargas or Barnum & Bailey Brothers any time soon, I can at least oggle at the splendor of Circus Gin. The conceptual project from Studio Unbound brings the big tent to life in bottle form with a spirits brand that’s just waiting for its turn in the spotlight.

We spoke with founder Martyn Garrod of Studio Unbound on how to create a gin brand that could step right up to the bar cart hall of fame.