Foley Household Wines is finest identified — because the title would recommend — for its wine operations, an unlimited empire which incorporates Chalk Hill, Sebastiani, Chateau St. Jean, and plenty of extra manufacturers. Not too long ago Foley acquired into the spirits recreation, and whereas we’ll assessment its first bourbon briefly order, at present we’re analyzing its inaugural gin, Lighthouse Gin, which is made by New Zealand’s first head distiller, Rachel Corridor.
Decidedly non London Dry in fashion, the gin is understood for its use of New Zealand’s well-known Yen Ben Lemons — a lot in order that “Distilled with Yen Ben Lemons” is the one textual content on the entrance label apart from “New Zealand” and the title of the product. Distilled from Australian grain and proofed with water from New Zealand’s Remutaka Ranges, further botanicals embody navel oranges, coriander seeds, almond, cassia bark, cinnamon quills, juniper, licorice root, and orris root.
Let’s give it a whirl!
They ain’t mendacity about these lemons: One whiff and an enormous rush of Meyer lemon character invades the senses. There’s ample juniper right here, then a subdued earthiness that wafts over the expertise. The citrus fades surprisingly shortly. In order for you that rush, get your nostril in there fast.
The palate reveals a curious building, the coriander-driven earthiness complemented by a noticeable licorice high quality, with a lot much less citrus than I used to be anticipating. The lemon notes make a return look on the end, which is way brighter and sunnier than the center of the consuming expertise. Till then, issues are a bit inexperienced, mildly piney, and enveloped with mushroom notes on each facet.
What’s actually lacking with this gin isn’t extra juniper or a steadier citrus profile however quite extra alcohol. That is one thing I virtually by no means say, however Lighthouse Gin is simply too weak at 40% abv. It (and gin usually) wants a bit extra punch to create the bracing expertise that normally makes gin nice. Navy Energy Lighthouse? Signal me up.
80 proof.
B+ / $50 / lighthousegin.co.nz
Lighthouse Gin
$50
