Leopolds American Small Batch Gin

Leopold's American Small Batch Gin: A Denver Dream in a Bottle (800 Words)

For gin enthusiasts seeking a unique and flavourful spirit, look no further than Leopold's American Small Batch Gin. Hailing from Denver, Colorado, this hand-crafted gin boasts a meticulous production process and a flavour profile that sets it apart from the crowd.

Distilling a Passion: The Leopold Brothers' Legacy

The story of Leopold's Gin begins in 1996 with brothers Todd and Scott Leopold. Their passion for brewing led them to establish Leopold Bros. Brewery in Michigan, where they honed their skills crafting exceptional beers. This thirst for innovation propelled them into the world of spirits in 2001, and by 2008, they brought their operation back to their Colorado roots.

Leopold's American Small Batch Gin, first released in 2001, embodies the Leopold brothers' dedication to quality and meticulous attention to detail. Each bottle is hand-labelled and hand-numbered, reflecting the small-batch nature of this spirit.

A Celebration of Botanicals: Unveiling the Flavour

What truly sets Leopold's Gin apart is its unique distillation process. Unlike many gins where all botanicals are distilled together, Leopold's employs a method called fractional distillation. Here, each botanical – juniper berries, coriander, pomelos, Valencia oranges, and orris root – undergoes a separate distillation, allowing its distinct character to shine through.

The result? A symphony of flavours that builds upon the classic juniper base of gin. Juniper berries provide the gin's backbone, offering a subtle piney aroma and a dry, earthy taste. Coriander adds a touch of citrus and peppery spice, while the pomelos and Valencia oranges contribute a burst of juicy sweetness and a refreshing brightness. Orris root, a lesser-known botanical, lends a subtle floral note and a smooth, creamy texture.

Tasting Leopold's Gin: A Journey for the Palate

Pour yourself a generous measure of Leopold's Gin and embark on a flavour adventure. On the nose, a wave of citrus greets you first – a delightful blend of zesty orange and grapefruit with a hint of juniper peeking through. As you take a sip, the juniper asserts itself more prominently, balanced beautifully by the sweet citrus notes. Coriander's subtle spice emerges on the mid-palate, adding complexity without overpowering the other botanicals. The orris root's smooth, creamy texture becomes evident, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind a delightful echo of juniper, citrus, and spice.

Beyond the Glass: Perfect Serves for Leopold's Gin

The versatility of Leopold's American Small Batch Gin makes it a perfect base for a variety of cocktails. Here are a few suggestions to unlock its full potential:

• The Classic Gin & Tonic: This timeless combination allows the gin's flavours to take centre stage. Use a high-quality Indian tonic water, a generous squeeze of fresh lime, and a sprig of rosemary for a unique twist.
• The Denver Mule: This local twist on the Moscow Mule swaps vodka for Leopold's Gin. Combine gin with fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and a dash of Angostura bitters for a refreshing and spicy cocktail.
• The Colorado Collins: A refreshing summer drink, the Colorado Collins elevates the classic Tom Collins with Leopold's Gin. Mix gin with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon wedge for a touch of elegance.
• The Leopold's Last Word:  For a sophisticated and slightly tart cocktail, try the Leopold's Last Word. Combine Leopold's Gin with Maraschino liqueur, lime juice, and green Chartreuse. This well-balanced drink is sure to impress.

In Conclusion: A Denver Spirit Worth Discovering

Leopold's American Small Batch Gin is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and a passion for flavour. With its unique distillation process, celebration of botanicals, and smooth, balanced taste profile, this gin offers a distinctive experience for any discerning drinker. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a well-crafted cocktail, Leopold's Gin promises a delightful journey for your taste buds. So, raise a glass to American innovation and experience the Denver dream in every sip.