Archie Rose Inside Gin

Nose: Red wine, grape juice, strawberries, orange peel, cardamom, cinnamon, and juniper. Palate: Spicy arrival with clove, cinnamon, dusty root extracts, dried orange peel, star anise, juniper, and cardamom. Some citrus elements are present but in the background with an herbal quality. There's a woody note, likely from orris root or bark extracts. The texture is good but not exceptional. There's a note similar to the berry aromas found on the nose, but it's surprisingly faint given its prominence there. Finish: Medium. Gently spicy, the baking spices from the palate carry into the aftertaste. This is one of two gins created by the distillery in collaboration with the Sydney Opera House to serve as their official “house gins”. They are named “Outside” and “Inside” respectively. This Inside expression was inspired by the intense drama of opera and symphony orchestra performances, and the profile suggests it was intended for indoor events or cooler weather. It's a warming, spicy, and very flavorful gin with berry-like undertones, especially on the nose. I'd guess this comes from sweet native botanicals like lilli-pilli and strawberry gum, and there's likely a generous amount of cassia and cinnamon bark in the infusion as well. It's a bolder gin than the “Outside” expression, and I didn't enjoy it as much neat or in a G&T, but it could be interesting in cocktails and might make an excellent negroni. Another interesting variation on the standard distillery formula. However, it is quite pricey and might have limited appeal. I would definitely suggest a taste before purchasing, if possible. “Above Average”: 82/100 (3.25 stars)

Very citrusy.