Spirit Type: Gin

Country: Ireland

ABV: 43%

Bottle Size: 50cl

Description:

The tea is referred to as "Gunpowder Tea" because each tea leaf has been shaped into a small ball that resembles gunpowder. Its manufacturing usually involves the use of green tea leaves, and it is this distinctive ingredient that gives Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin its name.

But beyond that, Gunpowder Gin is a sophisticated fusion of botanicals from numerous civilizations. The tea is vapor distilled with three different citrus fruits—grapefruit, lemon, and makrut lime. All the ingredients, including the Macedonian juniper, are macerated and then distilled in a pot still.

Although Chinese tea is described as a distinguishing plant and the famous American jackalope is shown on the label, Gunpowder Gin is made in Drumshanbo, Ireland. There is a soft citrus flavor on the nose. It is evident that extra attention was taken to the citrus components in this dish. Freshly squeezed lemon juice highlights a gently herbaceous, sagey juniper with the slightest undertones of green tea and meadowsweet.

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin has a flavorful explosion on the mouth. Citrus once more takes the stage. This time, it's grapefruit. The middle of the palate is dominated by green tea and juniper; the green tea tastes like the jasmine green tea you might order before sushi at a Japanese restaurant, while the juniper is herbaceous and vivacious.

Near the end, though, it turns sweet and spicy/herbal. Anise and cardamom are skilfully and aesthetically combined in this recipe. Particularly later and toward the conclusion, the honeyed, vanilla-like aroma of the meadowsweet is present.

The botanical combination is well-balanced despite being unique. The green tea stands out. The gin known as Gunpowder is a fitting successor. But in my perspective, what really makes this stand out is how it balances the botanicals. Fans of conventional gins will find enough juniper, but there is also a substantial citrus and herb presence without being overpowering. The heat at the end is beautiful and only slightly warming.