Ransom Spirits Ransom "The Geezer" Old Tom Gin is a special, extended barrel-aged version of their acclaimed Ransom Old Tom Gin. Here's what makes it distinct:
Key Differences from Ransom Old Tom Gin:
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Extended Aging: While the original Ransom Old Tom Gin is aged for 3 to 6 months in used French oak wine barrels, "The Geezer" undergoes a significantly longer maturation period, typically three to five years in the same toasted French oak.
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Enhanced Complexity: This extended aging imparts a greater depth of flavor, richness, and complexity to the gin, evolving beyond the characteristics of the standard Old Tom.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Opens with rich and intriguing aromas of incense cedar and orange oleo saccharum, beautifully complemented by exotic spice notes of cardamom and teak.
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Palate: The palate is described as rich and layered, with flavors of caramel and biscuit malt coming through from the base spirit. Notes of lemon pastille and coriander add a bright and spicy counterpoint.
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Finish: The gin builds warmth and depth towards a honeyed, resinous finish that evokes the essence of spiced winter baked goods and a hint of sea breeze.
Production:
Like the original, "The Geezer" starts with a base wort of 85% malted barley and 15% unmalted barley, combined with corn. It's infused with the same organic botanicals (juniper, orange peel, lemon peel, coriander seed, cardamom pods, and angelica root) and distilled in their alembic pot still. The key difference is the prolonged aging in French oak.
Overall Impression:
Ransom "The Geezer" Old Tom Gin is a unique and innovative expression within the Old Tom category. The extended barrel aging transforms the spirit, adding layers of richness, spice, and intriguing wood influence. It's presented as a gin that can be enjoyed neat for sipping, allowing the complexity from the aging to be fully appreciated, as well as in classic cocktails like a Martinez, Negroni, or Old Fashioned, where its depth can add a special dimension. It's a testament to Ransom's experimental spirit and their dedication to crafting distinctive, high-quality spirits.