Grand Traverse Peninsula Gin

I tasted this gin from my home state of Michigan back in the autumn of 2017, but I'm only now able to publish it, as I was fortunate to be chosen as one of ten beta testers for the new bottle entry feature. This particular gin is sold only at the distillery or one of their tasting rooms in Michigan. I purchased it after a tour of the distillery in June of 2016 for $35. Like every gin I've tried (and I've only had a few), the aroma starts with pine. Specifically, pine needles. It's also quite herbal. This is a spirit made from wheat, and it comes through with a strong yet refined grain essence. I inquired with the distillery about their botanicals because I detected a rye note, and they are known for their rye whiskey and vodka. I was told they use grains of paradise and other botanicals in this expression, which likely accounts for what I was tasting. As I recall, there was a lot happening, but my limited experience with gin prevents me from distinguishing everything. The taste is primarily pine. It's fairly sweet and perfumed. I also got notes of freshly baked bread, butterscotch, and herbs. It reminded me of chamomile tea. Minty/menthol notes were present. It has a light body and a thin but creamy texture. The finish is medium-short, with notes of chamomile and rye bread. I can't emphasize enough how little experience I have with gin, but I can confidently say this was very enjoyable. The grain notes were quite pleasant, and once I moved past the pine, I could truly appreciate it. A strong 4. Cheers