A bit of departure this month as we’ve chosen a gin that doesn’t come direct from the distillery, but instead from a company that trawls the world’s best distilleries for what are certainly some of the most unusual gins. That Boutique-y Gin Company’s large and growing range includes such delights as Chocolate Orange, Hot Sauce and Strawberry & Balsamico (and there are many, many more), which gives you an idea of where these guys are coming from. However, some of their selections are a little more down to earth which might not be quite so quirky, but still provides interesting and unusual flavours to spice up your collection.
We’ve chosen Swedish Rose from the Hernö Distillery in Härnösand up on the east coast of the land of ABBA and IKEA. Hernö opened the first dedicated distillery in Sweden and they got together with the guys at That Boutique-y Gin Company to recreate a classic Swedish gin. A partnership so successful that it claimed The London Dry Gin Trophy in 2017’s International Wine & Spirit Competition, one of a five awards it received that year.
But enough of the praise. What’s it all about? Well as you might have guessed, rose features in the recipe — red rose petals to be precise — enhanced by a spirit blended in juniper wood casks. This adds body and a hint of amber colour to the gin, possibly explaining the smooth, rich mouth feel. Added to that are meadowsweet and the old Swedish favourite of lingonberry, which combine to create a floral, luscious taste that builds on the classic London Dry palate. What to match with this complex spirit? We reckon Citrus enhances the flavour as does the bite of our Spiced blend, with either option adding to its roundness. Give it a try and let us know what you think.
Apparently the label of Swedish Rose Gin shows the Distillery Founder and CEO Jon Hillgren and colleague Dave Smith engaged in a heated exchange over the best use for some freshly harvested juniper wood, with an onlooker named Pontius Partridge happy to watch on whilst enjoying a cocktail. We doubt such an event ever happened, but if it did, we’re with Pontius.
Step into That Boutique-y Gin Company at www.thatboutiqueygincompany.com
