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Ferdinand's Saar Dry Gin
Distiller Score 93
This definitely will not be confused for a London Dry Gin as the heady perfume of botanical leaves just a hint of piney juniper. Instead the melange of spicy ginger, nutty coriander, and ginger combine with a kaleidoscope of fruit flavors including quince, citrus, and of course, the sharp, tangy acidity of the gently sweet riesling wine. The wine adds a delicious, rich, oily texture to the palate which all but obscures the 44% ABV making this a delightful gin to drink on its own. Highly recommended for a gin that takes risks by thinking outside of the box and succeeds heroically.
Reviewed by John Rankin
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Nolet's Silver Gin
Distiller Score 95
The juniper pine notes provide the backnote, but Nolet's Silver Gin is full of freshly sliced peach, ripe raspberry, and roses. Those notes are each found individually but the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Perhaps not everyone's cup of tea, but definitely worth a try at least. Cocktail suggestions: Think bubbles (French 75, Champagne Cocktail, Gin Fizz) or punch preparations..not really suited for classic martinis.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Komasa Sakurajima Komikan Gin
Distiller Score 90
The aroma of orange and orange blossom practically reach right out of the glass to honk the nose! Aside from being VERY orangey (although in a pleasantly perfumey way), the juniper does manage to come come through in the back palate. What's interesting is despite its orangeness, it's not terribly sweet at all - more zesty than sweet - with hints of almond, pistachio and mint.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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G'Vine Nouaison Gin
Distiller Score 91
The profile is fairly fruity on the profile with a fruit salad aroma. Juniper comes in a bit stronger as you taste, but other ingredients shine such as the ginger and peppery cubeb berries along with the herbal vine-flowers. The gin finishes warm, spicy and slightly bittersweet with a lot of complex flavors to discover. The Pegu Club comes to mind for a drink recommendation, but this gin could work in other cocktails where you'd like the spices to pop.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Ki No Tea Kyoto Dry Gin
Distiller Score 89
The nose initially brings fresh citrus, followed by rich, sweet notes of green tea. The sweetness of the tea grows on the palate, creating a silky, smooth base of rich milk chocolate and cream. The finish is long and warming, as the citrus reappears to complement the tea's decadence.
Reviewed by George Koutsakis
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Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin
Distiller Score 91
Lemon zest and violets open a bright nose, with potpourri, lavender, ruby red grapefruit, and a touch of savory salinity. The palate is savory and viscous, with juniper well integrated with notes of sage, expressed lemon peels, quinine, white pepper, and coriander. The presence of olives is felt most strongly on the finish, where vegetal and herbal notes reign alongside a final flash of vibrant citrus.
Reviewed by Jake Emen
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Hernö Gin
Distiller Score 92
Berries along with the fresh lemon scent are first to appear. This is quickly followed by piney juniper and a gentle meadowsweet floral scent. The palate tames the berries, but ups the ante on the juniper and black pepper. There's a softness on the body of the gin and the botanicals work together to present a spring-like fragrance with a bite of juniper. Really well done with the only "complaint" being that the proof could be just a tad higher. Serve in a sour cocktail presentation like a gin fizz.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Barr Hill Reserve Tom Cat Gin
Distiller Score 92
Not unlike the original Barr Hill Gin, the juniper doesn't come on too strong this interpretation of Old Tom. Instead, the palate reveals floral and honeyed notes woven throughout with a rounded caramel sweetness. An oaky flavor is present, but not overwhelming. Though it would likely overwhelm some classic gin cocktails, it will do well as a substitute for whiskey in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Reviewed by Anna Archibald
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Oxley Classic English Dry Gin
Distiller Score 90
A combination of floral and bright citrus notes greets you on the nose with juniper and other spices lurking in the background. Further trips on the nose bring out a bit of rooty and licorice notes. The use of vanilla and licorice give the gin just enough sweetness to balance the other ingredients. Juniper is solidly present throughout and citrus is there to close out the evening. Thoughts on a cocktail are plentiful but starting out with a Martini isn't a bad idea.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Distillery No. 209 Kosher-for-Passover Gin
Distiller Score 86
The sugarcane base creates a spirit with a higher perception of sweetness than most gins including Distillery No. 209’s flagship. In keeping with their house style, juniper elements are played down in favor of highlighting citrus, fresh coriander, and the welcome but uncommon savory flavor of bay leaf and a lingering finish of spicy cinnamon candy. The combined flavors are pleasant, but a bit subtle and would be a good recommendation for fans of New Western gin.
Reviewed by John Rankin
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Blaum Bros. Oak Reserve Gin (Batch 2)
Distiller Score 91
The color of this gin is on the lighter side of the spectrum of barrel-aged gins and has a blonde hue with light, golden highlights. The nose shows bits of the Madeira’s rich, oxidized caramel and baked orange flavors which add a lifted, floral character that reads quite fresh. Beyond all of this, there is still ample bourbon character with toasted flavors of oak and a touch of baked corn. Although overproof, the finish is clean and the Madeira cask’s sweetness helps incorporate the alcohol. Enjoy on its own as a contemplative gin.
Reviewed by John Rankin
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Ki No Bi "Sei" Kyoto Navy Strength Gin
Distiller Score 89
While much thicker and more full-bodied than the original Ki No Bi, the classic yuzu citrus-forward character is ever-present. Pepper and ginger come through on the palate, leading to a long, powerful finish.
Reviewed by George Koutsakis