James Gin California Dreamgin

Introduction I'm not usually one to seek out spirits from celebrities, but I'll always give a shot to the original Top Gear / Grand Tour crew — James May, Richard Hammond, and Jeremy Clarkson. James Gin's Asian Parsnip was a fantastic gin, which is quite the statement from someone who almost exclusively prefers whiskey and bourbon over gin. So, when he announced California Dreamgin, the concept immediately grabbed my attention. As a California resident, the theme alone made me eager to see his take on it. The label also states it's vegan certified — I'm unsure how much that impacts the drinking experience — but I did watch several videos showing the development of this particular gin. So, I'm approaching this with genuine anticipation to see how it stacks up against Asian Parsnip and if it introduces anything novel to their offerings. Nose The aroma of this gin is quite subtle. There's significantly less juniper compared to a standard gin; instead, it presents with a more earthy, woodsy essence. I'm detecting something akin to patchouli — musky, grounded, and almost like the forest floor. There's also a distinct umami quality, likely from the mushroom botanicals, lending the nose a mild savory depth. The juniper is still present but takes a supporting role, providing just enough of that familiar woody, spicy lift without overpowering the other notes. A light citrus scent, specifically lemon, brightens the profile, adding a gentle freshness to an otherwise mellow, earthy nose. Taste The palate begins with a vibrant burst of lemon peel and a subtle black peppercorn tingle on the tongue, giving the gin a lively, citrus-forward start. Underneath this, a subtle juniper note weaves through the initial taste — noticeable, but never dominant. As the flavor develops into the mid-palate, the earlier umami note blossoms into something reminiscent of tender, cooked mushrooms: earthy, savory, and possessing a faint natural bitterness that adds complexity without overwhelming the overall profile. Towards the back of the palate, a lightly nutty, toasted spice emerges — very much like coriander seed — contributing a warm, slightly citrusy character alongside a hint of tannic dryness. In its entirety, the palate transitions smoothly from citrus and pepper to earthy umami and toasted spice in a way that feels unified and surprisingly intricate. Finish The finish is decidedly dry, with that toasted coriander from the mid-palate continuing to the very end. The citrus also lingers, though the lemon shifts from its brighter peel character at the front of the taste to a slightly more bitter lemon-pith essence. There's a light, tingling peppercorn sensation remaining from earlier, but the finish itself isn't overly complicated. Its notable feature is its duration — it lasts longer than one might expect for a gin — and it sits comfortably on the gin's unexpectedly medium, slightly rounded mouthfeel, which is fuller than what most gins typically offer. Conclusion James Gin's California Dreamgin feels like an intriguing exploration into uncharted territory for gin. The incorporation of mushrooms in the botanical blend offers a distinctive depth and umami character, although for my taste, it doesn't quite achieve the same level of complexity as Asian Parsnip. This particular expression is noticeably milder, lacking any dominant or aggressive flavors, making it very pleasant for sipping. I'm uncertain if it would hold its own in more intricate mixed drinks, as its more subtle profile might be easily lost. However, it could work well in a gin and tonic — though perhaps not with lime, which might be too sharp. Pairing it with tonic and an orange slice could potentially enhance the softer citrus and toasted spice notes more effectively. Ultimately, it's a well-considered and satisfying gin, particularly if you're seeking something that deviates from the classic juniper-forward style. And considering its typical retail cost, James Gin continues to provide creative, well-crafted spirits that represent good value.