Aviation American Gin

Nose: Light but balanced. Juniper is present (which it must be) but it is complimented, and almost overpowered, by citrus and floral notes and a little vanilla. There is also a slight intrusion of ethanol - this could almost be mistaken for a good botanical vodka were it not for the occasional waft of juniper. Palate: A sweet arrival with subdued spices. It has some peppery notes but it's not hot at all and there is an excellent creamy texture. As is the case with the nose there is only a restrained juniper character and ethanol is again obviously present, however it's top-quality grain spirit and the profile is well balanced and agreeable. Finish: Short. Citrus and mild spicy/herbal/woody tones. This has an unusually mild juniper presence for a gin. The nose gains more citrus as you get used to it with a distinct lemon zest aroma coming to dominate. It's also a gin that I enjoyed both neat and as a mixer. The profile is so balanced, creamy and relaxed that it is wonderful straight. I poured an ounce of this into a glencairn (which is how I taste all spirits) and without even realizing it I polished it off before I'd finished the review - dangerously drinkable! On reflection, and once I had worked my way through most of a bottle, I came to think that this has some characteristics that are reminiscent of genever. It does not have the malty white-dog aromas but it has the slick, oily, almost slippery texture. I can't believe this is by accident - the distiller who formulated this gin must have had genever in the back of his mind. I've not tried it in a martini yet, but this weekend I'm meeting up with a mate who is the master of that drink, so I'll report back on what he makes of it. I have a feeling it will make an exceptionally friendly and approachable cocktail. "Very Good" : 87/100 (4.25 stars)

By far one of my favorite. Amazing from start to finish. Would recommend to anyone