Ventura Spirits Wilder Gin

Ventura Spirits Wilder Gin is a distinctive American gin hailing from Ventura, California. It sets itself apart by utilizing a unique blend of wild-harvested, native California botanicals alongside more traditional gin ingredients. These wild foraged botanicals, including sagebrush, purple sage, bay, yerba santa, pixie mandarin peel, and chuchupate, are distilled with a base of organic wheat. The aim is to capture the essence of the local terroir, evoking the fresh, savory aromas of the Central Coast mountains.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The aroma is described as fresh and savory, with prominent herbal notes from the sagebrush and purple sage, complemented by the aromatic bay and the slightly medicinal Yerba Santa. Bright citrus notes from the pixie mandarin peel add a zesty lift, while the unique chuchupate contributes an earthy and slightly spicy undertone. Juniper is present but often plays a supporting role to the regional botanicals.
• Palate: The palate offers a dynamic interplay of the wild and the cultivated. The savory and herbaceous notes from the nose translate onto the tongue, with a distinct earthiness and a touch of bitterness. The citrus from the mandarin peel provides a balancing sweetness and brightness. The juniper offers a classic gin backbone, but the overall impression is less pine-forward and more focused on the unique California botanicals. Some detect a slightly peppery or spicy character.
• Finish: The finish is generally clean and dry, with the savory herbal notes lingering alongside a subtle citrus zest. The unique character of the wild foraged botanicals often persists, leaving a memorable and distinctly Californian aftertaste.

Awards: While a comprehensive list of specific awards for Ventura Spirits Wilder Gin is not readily available, the brand and its products have garnered positive attention. Online reviews and mentions suggest:

• It has been recommended by bartenders and gin enthusiasts for its unique terroir-driven flavor.
• It has received high ratings and positive reviews on various spirits platforms, often highlighting its distinctiveness.

Overall Impression: Ventura Spirits Wilder Gin is a compelling and unique American gin that truly embodies its sense of place. The bold use of wild-harvested California botanicals creates a savory, herbaceous, and citrus-forward profile that distinguishes it from traditional gins. It's a gin for those seeking a departure from the norm, offering a taste of the California wilderness in a bottle. It is recommended for both sipping and for bringing a distinctive twist to classic gin cocktails, particularly those that can complement its earthy and citrus notes.