Notes: Made in a 19th-century Carterhead still (one of four still in existence in the world) this “Most Iconoclastic Gin” is infused with Bulgarian roses and cucumbers among many other ingredients to give it a unique aroma and flavor profile.

Appearance: Crystal clear, sprightly, a few legs on swirling, which then become droplets on the side of the glass. Slightly oily appearance to body (sign of quality).

First Impression: More perfume than a regular gin, rose, cucumber, coriander witch hazel and cassia, with citrus and other aromatics adding to the blend.

Taste: Medium to light body aromatic blend of spices and floral scents, mild tingling on the lips and tongue lingering finish. Very clean distillation. Slight warming burn on the way down. Lingering finish with floral and citrus notes and the smoothness of cucumber is apparent.

Drinks: Makes a excellent if somewhat idiosyncratic martini. Good gin and tonic, even makes a interesting Lassi. A great gin to experiment with as it is very different and affordable enough to use on questionable cocktail concepts. Just warn people about the gin so they don’t think you put something odd in their drink.

Bottle: Squat cylindrical brown glass bottle with a short neck resembles a apothecary bottle from years past. Label and artwork increase this impression. Could be mistaken for a bath product or spa product at a distance (now there’s a thought!) if it was in a different venue otherwise very distinctive and easy to spot-stark contrast to other gin bottles- make it easy to find on a store of bar shelf.

Final Thoughts: A very different gin from the usual and a refreshing break from the tyranny of juniper. A different, lighter, more aromatic take on one of my favorite substances. A wonderful alternative gin for an alternative mood. Also like many Grant products quite affordable compared to the competition and easy to find in many stores.

Website: http://www.hendricksgin.com

Website is wonderfully strange, very Monty-Pythonesque or Douglas-Adams style British Humuor. Clinching proof that Lavrenti Beria was right. Definitely worth a visit.