A refreshing and complex gin with floral notes, a smooth palate, and a long, warming finish.
The Botanist Islay Dry Gin stands as a testament to the rich botanical heritage of Islay, Scotland. This exceptional spirit captures the essence of its island home through a meticulous selection of hand-foraged local ingredients and traditional distillation methods.
Production Process
The Botanist is crafted at the renowned Bruichladdich distillery on Islay. What sets this gin apart is its unique composition of 22 hand-foraged local botanicals combined with 9 traditional gin aromatics. The local ingredients are sustainably collected from the hills, shores, and meadows of Islay throughout the growing season.
The distillation occurs in a unique Lomond still nicknamed "Ugly Betty," which allows for a slow and gentle extraction of flavors. This careful process ensures that each botanical's distinctive character is preserved in the final spirit.
Taste Profile
The gin presents a complex and sophisticated flavor profile:
- Nose: Fresh and floral with hints of mint, juniper, and sweet citrus
- Palate: A smooth entry reveals layers of sweet delicate menthol, apple mint, spring woodlands, juniper, coriander, and citrus
- Finish: Long and warming with subtle spice and a gentle mint fade
Territory
Islay, traditionally known for its peated whiskies, provides the perfect environment for botanical foraging. The island's diverse ecosystem, from coastal areas to inland meadows, contributes to the gin's unique character. The maritime climate and varied terrain create ideal conditions for the growth of the distinct herbs, flowers, and botanicals that define The Botanist.
What to Expect
Guests can anticipate a gin that defies conventional expectations. The Botanist offers a journey through Islay's natural landscape in liquid form. Its complexity makes it excellent both in classic cocktails and when served simply with premium tonic water and a seasonal garnish.
Fun Facts
- The gin contains more hand-foraged local botanicals than any other gin in the world
- Each botanical is sustainably harvested by the distillery's professional foraging team
- The Lomond still used for distillation is the last of its kind in operation
- Despite being produced at a whisky distillery, The Botanist was the first and remains the only gin from Islay