Spirit Tasting
Gin & Cocktails
September 15, 2022
5 PM – 7 PM
Citadelle Gin de France 88 proof…$30.99
Citadelle Gin is half revival, half new innovation: the revival is based on one the first gin produced in France at the “Citadelle” in Dunkirk. Maison Ferrand Distillery (the producer of Citadella)in the SW corner of France is best known for its Cognac. However, during the offseason when they legally couldn’t distill Cognac, they could distill gin. On the nose, hints of violet, sweet orange, coriander and floral brightness. Leans slightly citrus, but there’s another side here as well, with hints of a spicy/floral deeper notes: nutmeg, cinnamon and cardamom.
The taste begins quietly until the aromatics re-enter the nose. The middle begins with fresh bright juniper, turning more crisp and bold. The finish is what sets Citadelle Gin apart from its peers: really bright, a touch sweet and strongly aromatic: cardamom, angelica, nutmeg, a wide array of baking spices which melds into a more sharp licorice and fennel on the finish.
Barr Hill Tom Cat Reserve Gin 86 proof…$52
The robust character of the new oak barrel mingles with the coniferous quality of the juniper, yielding an enticing aroma. A touch of raw honey leaves this revolutionary spirit remarkably approachable, whether drinking neat or in a cocktail. When the world called for whiskey, Barr Hill answered resolutely with gin.
Cocktails
Gin Old Fashioned
4 parts Tom Cat Gin
1 part Barr Hill Honey
2 dash Orange bitters
Negroni Noir
2 parts Tom Cat Gin
1 part Mancino Chinato Vermouth
1 part Apologue Persimmon Liqueur
Aromatic Martini
4 parts Citadelle Gin
1 part Mancino Sakura Vermouth
Cherry garnish
Negroni Blanc
2 parts Citadelle Gin
1 part orange curacao
1 Quinquina Blanc