Producer | New Riff |
Country | United States |
Region | Kentucky |
Varietal | Spirits |
Sku | CGA22042702 |
Size | 750ml |
One of the highlights of our recent barrel buying adventure to Kentucky (other than all the amazing whiskey) was the discovery of this fantastic gin from New Riff Distillery! New Riff Kentucky Wild Gin is crafted on-site in the distillery's copper pot still. The distillers at New Riff source locally foraged, native spices from the hills of the Bluegrass state, together with classic gin botanicals from around the world. The base spirit includes a dash of new make rye whiskey spirit, enriching the texture and lengthening the flavor. The result is a wildly delicious, versatile gin perfect for your favorite cocktail or a splash of tonic.
There’s a healthy amount of spice on the nose. Even the juniper berry comes across as peppery. It’s dry, almost dusty, with cedar closet and a subtle touch of sweet vanilla. The palate is equally dry with a big flowery burst of lavender and tree pollen that gives way to flamed lemon peel, spicy peppercorns, and red licorice. The rye spirit has definitely added texture, but the added spice seems to compete with some of the subtler botanicals. The finish is lengthy and becomes juicier with notes of vanilla bean and lemonade. With a little lime and tonic, the dryness surprisingly remains with noticeable notes of licorice and Spicebush. It’s definitely a unique gin that deserves a creative cocktail, but I see this one ending up in plenty of dry martinis, as well. - 9/10 Points, Drinkhacker