Manly Spirits Coastal Citrus Gin

Nose: A variety of distinct citrus scents - lemon, lemongrass, lemon myrtle, orange peel - not too sharp but not overly mellow either. A sense of ocean breezes over a subtle juniper base, with a sweet element that unifies it all. Very well-balanced. Palate: The initial taste is bright citrus with a faint brininess. Quite invigorating. As it settles, a more rounded citrus emerges, gradually yielding to an underlying sweetness. The texture is smooth and creamy. Finish: The juniper only becomes noticeable in the medium finish, which has a hint of sweetness and a trace of peppery spice. A fine modern gin with a prominent citrus profile that relegates juniper to a secondary role. The secret ingredient is sea parsley - a locally foraged seaweed from the coast. It imparts a slight briny hint and an umami flavor, making it an inspired addition. Manly Spirits is a very new distillery, but the team has made an impressive start. Their gin is produced in a dedicated German hybrid still and is certainly not just being made to cover expenses until the whiskey is ready in a couple of years (the whiskey is being made in two large, beautiful copper pot stills custom-designed by the owner). In addition to this expression, they also produce a dry gin and a botanical-infused vodka, both of which are excellent. This gin is highly refreshing served over ice and makes a superb long G&T. "Good": 83/100 (3.5 stars)