Taking a parents only post on my favorite topic outside of travel… Gin
If you’re looking for a sign to get on the gin train, this is it!
Gin is in the limelight like never before, and there are several compelling reasons for its soaring popularity. The spirit’s inherent versatility is a key factor. With juniper berries as its primary ingredient, gin serves as a canvas for an almost infinite variety of botanicals, from traditional coriander and citrus peels to more exotic ingredients like hibiscus flowers and seaweed. This diversity leads to a plethora of flavor profiles that can cater to an expansive array of palates. Furthermore, the rise of craft distilleries around the world has fueled an exciting gin renaissance, pushing the boundaries of creativity and quality. The gin boom is also reinforced by the cocktail culture, as gin’s distinct flavors make it a favorite for mixologists, allowing for innovative and visually stunning concoctions. Lastly, consumers today are increasingly attracted to the stories and the craftsmanship behind the products they purchase, and the world of gin, steeped in history and tradition, yet constantly evolving, certainly has many intriguing tales to tell.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the world of spirits is how a single type of drink, such as gin, can express such a wide variety of flavors, aromas, and sensations, capturing the essence of its place of origin. Today, I’m excited to share with you a selection of my favorite gins from around the world, from Japan to Iceland, Bali to California, and an honorable mention of an infused gin that has been making a splash recently.
## Roku Gin – Japan
First, we journey to the Land of the Rising Sun with Roku Gin. Crafted by the famous Suntory distillery, Roku is Japanese for ‘six,’ referring to the six unique Japanese botanicals used: sakura flower, sakura leaf, yuzu peel, sencha tea, gyokuro tea, and sansho pepper. Each botanical is harvested in its peak season to extract the best flavor.
When you taste Roku, you’re immediately taken on a sensory journey through Japan. It’s a harmonious symphony of flavors, where traditional gin botanicals meet uniquely Japanese elements. The result? An incredibly balanced gin that’s both bold and nuanced.
## Herbal Garden – Elderflower Jasmine & Juniper Gin – Iceland
Next, let’s traverse the icy landscapes of Iceland to discover Herbal Garden’s Elderflower Jasmine & Juniper Gin. This pink gin is truly a celebration of Icelandic flora. Made with wild Icelandic juniper and a blend of other botanicals, including hand-picked elderflower and jasmine, this gin has a delicate floral profile that is as captivating as the Icelandic landscapes.
Each sip is a testament to the freshness and purity of the Icelandic wilderness, a beautifully complex gin that’s both sweet and subtly earthy, making it perfect for sipping on those long Nordic nights.
## East Indies Gin – Bali
Our next stop takes us to the tropical paradise of Bali with the exotic East Indies Gin. Crafted by the celebrated House of Dewi Sri, this gin is an homage to Indonesia’s rich history as a hub of the spice trade.
East Indies Gin uses a carefully selected array of botanicals, including Balinese long pepper and Indonesian cinnamon. The result is a gin that perfectly balances traditional juniper notes with an exciting twist of spice and citrus. It’s like a Balinese sunset in a glass, brimming with the warmth and vibrancy of the island.
## Grey Whale Gin – California
Back to the western shores of the United States, the Grey Whale Gin from California is a true tribute to the Californian coast. From the use of sustainably harvested coastal botanicals, such as juniper, fir tree, and kombu sea kelp, to its commitment to supporting ocean conservation efforts, Grey Whale Gin beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Golden State.
The gin itself offers a wonderfully smooth journey across your palate, with hints of citrus, pine, and a unique briny finish from the sea kelp. It’s a truly Californian gin experience, perfect for those laid-back, sunny afternoons.
## Honorable Mention: Snoop Dogg’s Strawberry Indoggo Gin
Lastly, we have an honorable mention that’s been making waves in the gin world – Snoop Dogg’s Strawberry Indoggo Gin. Known for his love for gin & juice, Snoop Dogg’s foray into the gin industry introduces a playful, fruity twist to the traditional spirit.
Infused with a strawberry flavor, this gin is light, slightly sweet, and incredibly easy to sip. It might not be your classic gin, but it certainly brings a fun, summery vibe to your glass!
And there we have it, a globetrotting gin journey that has hopefully provided you with a few new options to
