St. George Botanivore Gin

I've been in search of a Gin that I could use in cocktails and not feel so bad about mixing, based on price point. But also one that would serve up the complexity to be enjoyed neat. Initially, Nikka's Coffey Gin seemed like a good choice for a mixed drink but the taste profile was a tad one dimensional. Will this Gin offer the qualities I'm looking for and then some? Spice and citrus offer up a bright, vibrant nose. Oranges, lemons, anise, green peppercorns and thyme all tickle the nose. Pushing deeper into the nose really intensifies the citrus qualities but also brings out a nostril tickling cinnamon red hot candy quality. This Gin smells so lively! A soft, citrusy start to the palate gives the impression of water, served up with slices of lemon. That softness doesn't last though; the taste opens up wide with Juniper, peppercorns, cinnamon red hots and ginger. That citrus sticks around, all the while offering backlighting to the spice. But as it fades into the background it turns almost sweet and effervescent - like lemon lime soda. The finish is quite extraordinary. Remember the lemon-lime soda like quality at the back of the palate? Well, that fizzy effervescence dances across your tongue the entire length of the finish along with a soft backdrop of Juniper now playing second fiddle to the tart and sweet citrus. Wow! This Gin is bright, exciting and complex. Truly one of the very best and at the sub-$30 price point it is screaming value for money. I cannot wait to try this in a Gin and Tonic.

My favorite of the St George's to date

Herbal and floral, there is a lot going on but it works, combines great with Campari and Punt e Mes for a killer negroni.

An explosion of botanicals that keeps the taste buds engaged; very good neat or with a splash of light tonic.