Strange Nature Gin - Premium Grape New Zealand is a distinctive gin that stands out for its unique base spirit and minimalist botanical approach. Here's what makes it notable:
Key Features:
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Origin: New Zealand.
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Base Spirit: It's crafted from the byproduct of de-alcoholized New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc wine. The alcohol is gently extracted using spinning cone technology, which preserves the natural flavors and aromas of the wine and its terroir.
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Botanicals: Unusually, Strange Nature Gin is distilled with a single botanical: juniper.
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Flavor Profile from the Base: Despite using only juniper, the gin retains the inherent characteristics of the Sauvignon Blanc, resulting in a complex flavor profile that can include notes of fresh pineapple, zesty grapefruit, blood orange, and makrut lime, all punctuated by the herbaceousness of juniper.
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Sustainability: By utilizing a byproduct of the winemaking process, Strange Nature Gin embraces a sustainable approach. They also have a bottle refill program for bars in New Zealand.
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ABV: Typically around 44% for the standard "Premium Grape" edition. Some sources list a higher ABV of 57%, so it's worth checking the specific bottle.
Tasting Notes (based on descriptions):
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Aroma: A vibrant aromatic profile bursting with gooseberries and zesty citrus, leading to a resinous juniper forefront. You might also detect the tropical and herbaceous notes from the Sauvignon Blanc base.
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Palate: Pristine and bold, with a juicy grape base shining through alongside the assertive juniper. Expect a blend of sweet and savory notes, with the fruitiness of the Sauvignon Blanc complementing the gin's defining botanical. Some detect blackcurrant and a faint salinity.
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Finish: The fruity and piney notes often continue on a long and lingering finish.
Awards and Recognition:
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98 Points at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), where it was described as having a "wonderfully vibrant aromatic profile".
Overall Impression:
Strange Nature Gin is an innovative and intriguing spirit that challenges the traditional gin-making process. By using a Sauvignon Blanc base and a single botanical, it creates a unique flavor profile that is both familiar and surprising. It's considered a versatile gin that works well in classic cocktails like a Gin & Tonic, Martini, or Tom Collins, where its distinct character can shine. If you're looking for a gin with a story and a flavor that deviates from the norm, Strange Nature is worth exploring.
