Thirty four botanicals in one gin? We don’t know if that’s a record, but it’s certainly the greatest variety we’ve found during our travels — and part of the reason why we’ve chose the remarkable, complex and intense Garden Tiger Gin as this month’s choice.
But there’s much more to Garden Tiger Gin than that. Its creator, distiller Barney Wilczak, didn’t want to go down the well-trodden (garden) path of making another classically styled gin. Instead he was determined to produce a gin that was distinctly different. And we think he certainly did.
It isn’t just the myriad of botanicals that makes the difference though. The production of this gem of a spirit involves macerating some of the botanicals directly in the still for 40 hours, whilst others are suspended above to gently release their flavours. A small number of bottles are produced per batch, with the time-consuming labour of love making this the most expensive gins we’ve chosen so far. But don’t let the price put you off, this is something really special.
What does that mean in the glass? Well, for a start it isn’t just a Tiger Gin by name. The 47% proof nature of this beast gives it a real bite. However its strength doesn’t interfere with the surprisingly subtle aroma, followed by a hit of blood orange and a warm, dry and spicy finish that’s full of…well the result of 34 botanicals and a lot of hard work. For us, it’s a nailed on match with our Citrus blend, but if you want to really pimp this one (and it won’t be a combination for all tastes) grab the tiger by the tail and give Spiced a go.
Explore or buy at the fabulously named Capreolus Distiller, www.capreolusdistillery.co.uk