As I’ve often mentioned in this column, one of my favorite things about gin is the sheer versatility. It’s a veritable blank canvas of a spirit. And at Irish distillery The Shed, makers of the creative Gunpowder Irish Gin line, they like to paint with all the colors. Their newest release leans Mediterranean, in a collaboration with Italian mixologist Bruno Vanzan, for the Gunpowder Irish Gin with Italian Fig & Laurel. Initially, it was going to be a limited release, but they are making it a permanent expression.
The gin itself is clear. But the striking purple gradient of the bottle feels like an apt aesthetic representation of the Italian Viola figs that flavor the spirit. The botanical bill also features Tuscan juniper and savory Italian laurel. All are built against the gin’s standard lineup of citrus like lemon, lime, and grapefruit, as well as the namesake Gunpowder green tea. And while the fig flavor is subtle, the gin’s vibrantly sweet and juicy aroma carries through the first sips. The more bitter and savory botanicals offer a solid counterbalance. And the gin finishes with just a hint of sweetness on the finish.
With a richer, more rounded mouthfeel compared to a traditional London dry, the Gunpowder Irish Gin with Italian Fig & Laurel would make for a decadent spritz. Bubbles would lift the aromatics. Lean into the fruit-forward profile by mixing up a classic Tom Collins. Or go for an extra juicy version of a Clover Club. The cocktail bar is your canvas, after all. $41.99, totalwine.com
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