Hayman's Sloe Gin

Nose: Cranberries, strawberries, citrus, and a hint of bright spice. Palate: Sweet and tart sloe berry, cooked rhubarb, and a touch of orange marmalade on the initial taste, followed by sweeter fruit syrup notes, with juniper and orris root becoming apparent towards the finish. Finish: Medium length. Tart and sweet with lasting berry flavors. I sampled this at a temporary stall at our local liquor store last Saturday, which was World Gin Day. While I've had several sloe (and other berry-flavored) gins before, I hadn't tried this particular one. My wife particularly enjoyed it, and we purchased a bottle. There are two main approaches to making sloe gin: you can create an intense, syrupy version akin to a berry liqueur, where the underlying gin's character is largely masked and it could almost be made with vodka, or you can maintain a balanced, light profile that allows the gin to still be detectable. Hayman's employs the latter method for this product. This style is ideal for a refreshing, light beverage when used as a mixer, and the notes of bright rhubarb or citrus I detect contribute to this quality. It works exceptionally well in a gin and tonic, producing a drink that resembles a G&T with an added fruit syrup kick, which is essentially what it is. As others have noted, it's also an obvious choice for creating a sloe gin fizz or a sloe gin shrub. It's very pleasant, possessing a sense of equilibrium. Its sweetness and berry character are present to the ideal extent, making it one of the superior sloe gins available. We will likely buy another bottle once this one is finished, and we'll also explore flavored gins as a category. "Very Good": 85/100 (4 stars)

Having sampled two other sloe gins, this one stands apart. It possesses a less pronounced dark, "mulled wine" spice in both its scent and taste compared to those. The plum sloe flavor is less complex here, giving it a "lighter" character for me. There's an almost bubblegum-like note in the finish. The label emphasizes their belief that the gin should be detectable in a good sloe gin, and they deliver on that. While the gin is a subtle background element in the other two I tried, it's more evident in this one. Ultimately, I favor the richer, deeper taste of the other styles, but this is still very pleasant. Its lighter profile makes it a more refreshing summer beverage, unlike the others which feel more suited for autumn or winter. And that summery quality is certainly appealing at times. I'm currently enjoying a glass with ice on a warm evening, and it's perfectly satisfying. Additionally, its price is somewhat or significantly lower than the other two, depending on sales. I paid $26 for the bottle and might buy more, especially if I finish it while the warm weather persists.

Clean, crisp, and bursting with berry taste (think plum, blueberry, and Saskatoon berry). It would be amazing in a Gin and Tonic on a warm summer day! The gin's foundation is present and shows up in the finish... However, it's not too strong and definitely takes a backseat to the bold berry flavor. There's no alcohol burn, as expected with the low ABV. While I'm not a cocktail expert, I can definitely see the potential this bottle holds. I would likely buy it again based on my initial impression - it will be interesting to revisit and see if my opinions and tastes evolve.

A pleasant nose with a slightly floral aroma, a deep cherry/raspberry candy color, and a syrupy, thick consistency. It's very sweet and remarkably smooth to drink, with a nice little kick at the end to remind you it's alcoholic. It strongly resembles the cough syrup you didn't mind taking as a child. It features abundant candied cherry, deep raspberry, and plum flavors with a subtle hint of juniper underlying the entire experience. Surprisingly enjoyable on its own, but it's definitely a spirit that requires a specific 'time and place,' being far better suited for cocktails and mixed drinks.

This marks my initial experience with Sloe Gin. The aroma features plums, raspberries, and cherries, without any artificial or medicinal notes. Juniper is prominent on the palate but quickly recedes, allowing the orchard fruit flavors to return to the forefront. The finish is remarkably long, offering a interplay of fruit and botanicals. This is quite remarkable. Sipped straight, the juniper is very apparent; on ice, it's a fruit extravaganza. With a splash of soda, it resembles a complex cocktail.

I just returned from a one-night business trip to Atlanta, and after a demanding day of meetings and presentations, I needed refreshment. I noticed this at the hotel bar and was intrigued by what 'sloe gin' might be. Apparently, it involves steeping some berries in gin. I'm not sure if it's just me... but it tastes like a fruit Hi-C. Or Kool-aid. Far too sweet. I'm not assigning a rating, as I have no frame of reference for what constitutes good or bad sloe gin.