Golden Moon Gin is a contemporary-style gin distilled by Golden Moon Distillery in Golden, Colorado, USA. The distillery, founded in 2008, emphasizes using the finest herbs, spices, and botanicals, including wild-crafted mint and juniper berries, as well as locally grown ingredients from the Front Range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Highly floral with forest-like and herbaceous notes, often featuring a prominent aroma of French lavender and a menthol coolness from mint.
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Palate: Described as thick, round, and slightly sweet with nice herbal notes. The juniper is bright and herbaceous, sometimes with a hint of Douglas Fir. Mint provides a brisk coolness, while lavender is a central flavor. The palate can evolve with greener notes of rosemary and tarragon.
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Finish: Offers a touch of sweetness followed by herbal and peppery notes, sometimes with a hint of fennel or tarragon. The lavender often fades, leaving a pleasant warmth.
Awards and Recognition:
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Gold Medal at the Denver International Spirits Competition (2013).
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Silver Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2011, 2013).
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Silver Medal, Outstanding at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (2013).
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Silver Medal at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (2014).
Overall Impression: Golden Moon Gin is an unabashedly contemporary and floral-forward gin with a distinct herbal edge. It offers a unique and gentle flavor profile that is smooth enough to be enjoyed neat but also bold enough to mix well in cocktails. It is particularly recommended for cocktails that complement its floral and herbal notes, such as a Negroni or a Gin & Tonic with a sweeter or elderflower tonic. While it may not suit those seeking a more traditional, juniper-heavy London Dry style, it appeals to those who appreciate a more adventurous and aromatic gin experience.
Please note: Recent reports from May 2024 indicate that Golden Moon Distillery has ceased operations. While the gin may still be available, its future production is uncertain.