Lighthouse Batch Distilled Gin

Nose: Juniper and lemon are prominent, followed by pine needles and herbal potpourri (mostly basil), but the aroma is somewhat distant. It's very light and subtle, with a touch of ethanol detectable. It becomes more substantial when tasted neat. Palate: Earthy juniper, a very full texture is immediately apparent but it's again subtle, though quite sugary sweet. The palate is short and doesn't evolve; it quickly reaches the finish. Finish: Short. Sweet. I can't say I was particularly impressed with this gin. Compared to others I've sampled (even today), it was plain and uninspired. Nothing negative, mind you, but certainly nothing remarkable. Initially, I tasted this with two whisky and gin enthusiast friends, and we all shared the same sentiment: Meh. However, we were drinking it neat and with tonic. Later, one of them (the Master of the Martini) messaged me that it performs much better as a mixer in a martini or a gimlet (admit it – when was the last time you had a gimlet?). At its price point, it faces stiff competition that is (in my opinion) superior. Recommended only if your alternative is Vickers Gin. Bombay Sapphire is two-thirds the price and equally good. "Average": 75/100 (2.5 stars)

I feel like this started out as a winery visit. However, while stopping at the Martinborough Vineyard, they offered this as part of the tasting. There were four wines or three wines and a gin. The men opted for the wines, while the women chose wine and gin. Unfortunately, they mixed the gin with tonic, so based on my tasting (from my wife's sample), I can't really provide a rating, but it seems to mix well. I'll let someone else provide a detailed review and rating.

It's citrusy, smooth, and leans drier. I sampled this at a shop in New Zealand and immediately purchased it. The shop attendant mentioned a subtle briny, ocean-water quality, and I completely concur. This is a delicious gin, perfectly enjoyable on its own.

Exceptionally smooth