Gin - Aviation Gin
House Spirits, LLC, Portland, Oregon
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Aviation Gin
House Spirits LLC, Portland, Oregon
PROOF: 84 (40%)
TYPE: American Dry (more or less)
AGE: Not applicable
PRICE: $30.00 - 750ML
Notes: From the land of the serious foodies comes another small distiller with a completely different take on Gin. Made in a small pot still and handcrafting each batch the small scale production and attention to detail show you what is possible if you have the skills and dedication. Utilizing a traditional Dutch or early American Rye grain base (which brings it's own zest, spiciness and weight compared to corn or wheat base spirits) and a much more even handed blending approach (read less juniper than a London Dry Gin).
Appearance: Crystal clear, thick, scalloped edges develop on swirling, changing to droplets droplets on the side of the glass. Slightly oily/thickness to body (sign of quality and lots of flavor).
First Impression: Not your father's (or mother's) gin. Juniper is not the first and defining characteristic. Saspirilla, lavender and some anise wrap around cardamom and orange peel, with coriander lingering around the edges.This is in addition to a unmistakable spiciness and earthiness that the rye base brings to the mix.
Taste: Medium to heavy body played off by the blending of the floral and spicy. Pleasantly heavy rye and spice entry with floral lavender and anise top notes. mild tingling on the lips and tongue with floral spice and grain finish lingering nicely. Very clean distillation.
Drinks: Makes a
excellent and singular martini-especially for those people who are not a fan of juniper. Outstanding gin and tonic with the lavender and bubbles making for a unexpected and delightful surprise. The Aviation is truly outstanding: 4 parts gin, 1 part fresh lemon juice, 1 part maraschino liqueur (dry). It even makes a interesting, if slightly sacrilegious, Lassi.
Bottle: Clear glass, not frosted,colored or in any other way obscuring the contents. With a simple slightly retro paper label and a clear view of the important stuff, the gin.
Final Thoughts: A very praiseworthy attempt at creating at completely different gin. While taking a old style genever or American style base they have added a deft sense of blending,maceration and distillation to create a truly outstanding Gin.This is the gin to use to resurrect those classic pre-Prohibition American cocktail recipes such as the Alamagoozlum and a host of others, that simply cannot be done with a London Dry. Amazingly cheap compared to all its competitors and a must have for the discerning gin connoisseur.
Website: http://www.aviationgin.com or http://www.medoyeff.com
Website for Aviation Gin is more a billboard then a page, but has useful information. The other link is the main page for all of their products.
