Do we like gin? You betcha. Just check out all these reviews we’ve done.
Whenever a new bottle comes to market, we itch to try it. And unlike most other spirits, gins are relatively few in number. Indeed, just 15 years ago the gin drinkers choice in the U.S. were limited to Beefeater, Tanqueray, Gordon’s, and perhaps Boodles. Then there was a flurry of new entrants—Bombay Sapphire, Plymouth, new versions of Tanqueray, and assorted small batch gins (e.g., Bluecoat).
And yet more have arrived.
Beefeater 24: A few years ago, Beefeater got into the game and released Beefeater 24. For gin rookies, Beefeater 24 It is more accessible than the standard Beefeater. Beefeater 24 is lower proof (90 vs. 94) and also is lighter on the juniper and is laced with an appealing citrus note. It works well in a Martini with a twist but not an olive.; and Beefeater 24 is especially refreshing with tonic. (Rating ****)
Berry Bros. & Rudd No. 3 London Dry Gin: This 92 proof gin popped our eyes when it came over the transom a year or so back. A new London Dry Gin? London Dry is already the predominant style of most brands of gin, so how now? Well, perhaps it was released as a reaction against the new-to-market gins that de-emphasize juniper. Quoth the No. 3 website, “No.3 was created to be the last word in gin for a Dry Martini.” This gin also has a modest six botanicals. (Sapphire boasts 10.) It is tasty—the juniper is balanced against the citrus flavors, and the close is slightly earthy and dry. Yum. (****1/2)
Caorunn Small Batch Scottish Gin: This might be the most exotic of these three gins. For one, Caorunn (ka-roon) is made in Scotland. It is a light 83.6 proof, and is made with 11 botanicals, five of which were chosen for their “Celtic” heritage—heather, bog myrtle, rowan berry, dandelion, and “coul blush apple.” Funny enough, the makers suggest serving it in tonic with a slice of apple not lime. The gin is made at Balmenach Distillery, and it is very mild. Wave it under your nose and you won’t get a blast of pine up your schnozz or prickles in your sinuses. The flavor is lightly floral and citrusy, with just a touch of juniper. Very pleasant, and probably especially appealing to the novice gin drinker or the martini quaffer looking for something gentler than the usual.
You may shop for all these gins at our preferred retailer.
