Abbey Holmes teams up with Bombay Sapphire for Sapphire Hour

A new study has revealed that two-thirds of Australians say they have become busier in the past few years, with almost half claiming they struggle to catch up with friends—a concerning trend in an era where connection is more essential than ever. Commissioned by Australia’s number one premium gin, Bombay Sapphire, and conducted by Antenna, the research also highlights that over half of Australians are prioritising time with their families and ‘me time’ while four in five Australians wish they had more time to reconnect with friends and family.

To combat this disconnection and inspire the nation to embrace the longer summer days, Channel Seven commentator and former AFLW star Abbey Holmes, a personality well known for her busy lifestyle, has teamed up with the jewel of the gin world to launch Sapphire Hour—an initiative designed to encourage Aussies to pause and embrace daylight savings’ extra hour of sunlight over a Bombay & Tonic, a timeless classic best shared with those who matter most.

Sapphire Hour ambassador Abbey explains, “In a world that never slows down, it’s easy to get swept away with the daily grind; I can admit I’m guilty of letting time get away from me. After completing Grand Final Week—the busiest time of my year—I realise how important it is to slow down and appreciate life’s beauty, and Sapphire Hour reminds us to take a break and reconnect with loved ones this summer.”

When it comes to socialising with family and friends, the study found almost two-thirds (64%) of Australians would prefer to do so over a meal in a restaurant and almost half (46%) over a drink at home. Monthly gatherings are common, with 66% of respondents seeing friends and family at least monthly and more than two-thirds (61%) enjoying gin and tonic when doing so. At home, 44% of Australians opt for classic, simple drinks, with over half (56%) viewing gin and tonic as a straightforward classic drink and 29% noting it’s easier and quicker (27%) to make than other cocktails.

Commenting on the enduring appeal of the gin and tonic, Bombay Sapphire Brand Ambassador Corina Retter notes: “With its refreshing taste, effortless preparation and perennial versatility, the gin and tonic has rightfully earned its place as a timeless classic, beloved by many.

“Crafted specifically for the gin and tonic experience, Bombay Sapphire features a unique blend of 10 exotic botanicals sourced from around the globe, with each one hand-selected and gently vapour-infused to preserve its vibrant flavour. It’s this meticulous selection process and commitment to quality that result in the iconic fresh, clean and bright flavour of Bombay Sapphire, which elevates any mixed drink and renders the Bombay & Tonic truly exceptional,” concludes Corina.

Abbey adds: “Everyone recognises the distinctive striking blue of the Bombay Sapphire bottle and the classic taste of a Bombay & Tonic, which makes it an ideal companion for social connection. With the longer days ahead, I will sure be enjoying a B&T with friends – either at the local or in the comfort of home.”

As part of the campaign, Bombay Sapphire has teamed up with The Clock in Surry Hills to launch Sapphire Sundays, where guests will get the chance to enjoy $10 Bombay & Tonics, food deals and DJs every Sunday throughout October 2024.

A Timeless Gin & Tonic with Bombay Sapphire

To truly enjoy your next Gin & Tonic, serve it up in classic Bombay Sapphire style.

Ingredients:
50ml Bombay Sapphire
100ml premium tonic water (we recommend Fever-Tree Mediterranean)
Fresh lime wedge

Method:
Fill your balloon glass to the rim with large cubed ice.
Pour 50ml of Bombay Sapphire over the ice.
Squeeze fresh lime wedge into the drink and drop into glass.

For more information on Bombay Sapphire, please visit: www.bombaysapphire.com. For more information on Sapphire Sundays at The Clock, please visit: www.clockhotel.com.au/whats-on