Cotswold Distillery Old Tom Gin

A Journey Through the Cotswolds: Unveiling the Distillery's Old Tom Gin

The Cotswolds Distillery's Old Tom Gin offers a delightful exploration of a bygone era, capturing the essence of a sweeter gin style that reigned supreme in 18th-century England. This detailed tasting note delves into the spirit's aromatic profile, flavour characteristics, and ideal serving suggestions, allowing you to fully appreciate this unique expression.

Aromatic Delights: A Nostalgic Tapestry

Cotswolds Old Tom Gin greets the nose with a welcoming warmth. The juniper backbone, a defining characteristic of gin, establishes its presence straightaway. However, it takes a gentle backseat, allowing a chorus of sweeter botanicals to take centre stage. Candied orange peel emerges first, its citrusy vibrancy intertwined with hints of earthy angelica root. Liquorice root adds a subtle touch of anise, its bittersweet character adding complexity to the aroma. As the gin opens further, whispers of warming ginger and cardamom peek through, hinting at the subtle spice to come.

On the Palate: A Balanced Symphony of Sweetness and Spice

The first sip of Cotswolds Old Tom Gin is a revelation. The sweetness, a hallmark of the Old Tom style, is immediately apparent. It's not an overpowering sugary rush, but rather a delicate touch of sugar syrup that complements the botanicals beautifully. The promised orange peel explodes on the tongue, its zesty character balanced by the earthy depth of angelica root. The liquorice root emerges once more, its aniseed influence subtle yet intriguing.

As you savour the spirit, a gentle wave of warmth washes over the palate, courtesy of the ginger. It's a light touch, more of a warming accent than a fiery outburst. Cardamom adds a touch of complexity in the background, its peppery notes lingering subtly. The juniper, ever-present, provides a subtle piney grounding, ensuring the sweetness never becomes cloying.

The finish is clean and refreshing. The sweetness tapers off gracefully, leaving a lingering echo of orange zest and a touch of warming spice. The juniper asserts itself slightly more in the aftertaste, offering a pleasant reminder of the gin's core botanical.

Unlocking the Potential: Serving Suggestions

Cotswolds Old Tom Gin's versatility shines through in a variety of serving options. Here are a few suggestions to help you experience its full potential:

• The Classic G&T:  For a taste of tradition, reach for a high-quality Indian tonic water. The tonic's quinine bitterness beautifully complements the Old Tom's sweetness, creating a refreshing and balanced beverage. Garnish with a twist of orange peel to accentuate the citrus notes.
• A Tom Collins with a Twist:  This timeless cocktail takes on a new dimension with Cotswolds Old Tom Gin. Combine the gin with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup (adjust to your taste preference), and a dash of soda water. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon twist for a visually stunning and flavourful drink.
• The Old Fashioned, Revisited:  For a unique twist on this beloved classic, swap out the usual bourbon for Cotswolds Old Tom Gin. Combine the gin with a dash of simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and a few dashes of orange bitters. Stir well with ice and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a twist of orange peel and a maraschino cherry for a delightful and unexpected twist.
• Beyond the Cocktail:  Cotswolds Old Tom Gin also excels in long drinks and spritzes. Combine it with ginger ale and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing highball, or top it with soda water and a sprig of rosemary for a light and herbaceous spritz.

In Conclusion: A Timeless Gin for the Discerning Palate

Cotswolds Old Tom Gin is a captivating journey through history. It captures the essence of a bygone era, offering a sweeter and more nuanced gin experience. Its balanced profile, featuring zesty citrus, warming spice, and a touch of liquorice, makes it a versatile spirit perfect for classic cocktails and creative explorations alike. So, raise a glass and embark on a delightful adventure through the Cotswolds with this exceptional Old Tom Gin.