The Botanist Islay Cask Aged Gin, is a unique expression that showcases the Bruichladdich Distillery's expertise in both gin-making and whisky maturation. This gin is crafted by taking The Botanist Islay Dry Gin and aging it for a minimum of three years in a carefully selected cuvée of fine oak casks. These casks, sourced from both American and European oak, previously held various wines and spirits, allowing them to impart a significant depth of character and complexity to the gin while harmonizing with its 22 foraged Islay botanicals. This aging process defies conventional gin production, resulting in a spirit that bridges the gap between gin and aged spirits.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: This rich copper-hued spirit opens with inviting notes of fresh, ripe fruits and candied orange, underlaid by a gentle juniper presence. Clean, crisp aromas of apple and watermelon mingle with tropical hints of mango, peach, and dried banana. Sweet, sugared almonds and lightly toasted oak emerge, alongside an intricate combination of the floral botanicals, brown sugar, and a touch of leathery tobacco, with warming ginger and nutmeg from the wood at its heart.
- Palate: The mouthfeel is notably creamy and viscous. Sweet, fresh fruit flavors blend seamlessly with vanilla ice cream and toasted oak. The length and complexity on the palate are a testament to the extended time in oak and the careful selection of casks, which complement the complex botanicals. The depth of the oak and gentle earthy spices warm the palate while allowing the floral and herbal notes of The Botanist to remain central.
- Finish: The finish sees the tropical fruit notes linger beautifully. The oaky vanilla fades gently, giving way to hints of grilled pineapple and mango puree, with subtle echoes of crushed coriander, candied orange, fragrant juniper, and sweet cassia.
Awards: While specific awards solely for the 3-year "Aged Gin" expression might be less common than for the flagship, the consistent acclaim for The Botanist range and its innovative cask-finished expressions suggests high regard. The core Botanist Islay Dry Gin has consistently won Gold medals at the World Gin Awards, and this aged variant is likely to be similarly well-received by connoisseurs and critics for its unique character and quality.
Overall Impression: The Botanist Aged Gin is an elegant, captivating, and distinctive spirit that pushes the boundaries of traditional gin. The extended maturation in fine oak casks imbues the vibrant Islay botanicals with layers of rich fruit, warm spice, and a smooth, creamy texture. It's a gin designed for savoring neat or over ice, allowing the intricate interplay between the gin's botanical complexity and the cask's influence to be fully appreciated. While it can be used in cocktails, its unique character is best highlighted in simpler serves where its depth and nuanced flavors can shine. It represents a bold and successful experiment, appealing to both gin enthusiasts seeking something truly different and those who appreciate the depth and complexity of aged spirits.
