First seen in the craft beer movement and now reflected in spirits, small batch gin is fast becoming a prized commodity. With this in mind we went to the Good Spirits Company on Glasgow’s Bath Street, to speak to spirit expert Matthew and mixologist Graeme about their thoughts and recommendations on some of Scotland’s up-and-coming gins.
Strathearn distillery is making waves not only in the world of gin but also the world of whisky. Scotland’s newest micro-distillery and probably also the smallest commercial distillery, Strathearn produce three main gins currently; the Classic, the Heather Rose gin and the Oaked Highland gin.
Strathearn Distillery offers a whole range of tours including a simple tour of the farm based distillery, a day spent distilling or most interesting for gin lovers – an afternoon making and drinking gin. To book a tour contact them here: info@strathearndistillery.com
Smell:
The star anise really overpowers the nose to deliver a real aniseed hit. Nicely balanced.
Taste:
When neat: Nice and clean. Aniseed is well balanced and gives a really unique flavour, warm finish with a touch of sweetness that's not cloying.
With tonic (one part gin to two parts Fever Tree): Very well balanced, almost perfectly so, aniseed is there but takes a back seat to the sweetness. Very nice clean finish, though the aniseed lingers
Matthew says: "A really interesting gin that isn't afraid to push the flavour profile in a different direction."
Graeme's choice: "A twist on the Alaska, to enhance the anise flavour and add a nice honeyed character. A simple cocktail that showcases the gin well."
The Alaska (with a twist) recipe:
• 50ml gin
• 15ml yellow chartreuse
• 10ml manzanilla sherry
• Ungarnished