New Amsterdam Stratusphere Gin The Original

The nose is surprisingly floral and less industrial, though it carries an unsettling, almost terrifying quality. The palate starts out rather smooth but is quickly overtaken by an industrial taste, not intensely bitter, but more like alcohol with a hint of motor oil. It also presents many light floral notes, which are appreciated. It's peppery without being unpleasantly sharp. This is sweeter and less harsh than Starr Blu, making it preferable to that one. While Dover is better due to its juniper presence, this is still acceptable. In fact, it's not great, but it's an improvement over Starr Blu. Like Starr Blu, mixing this with Dover improves both, adding complexity and mellowing the flavors. The result is a gin that leans sweet, similar to a less complex Ford's or Pacific Voyager with a touch of Nolet's. If that profile appeals to you, this is an improvement, though still not outstanding. I certainly wouldn't be eating based on this profile. Its quality is between Starr Blu Gin and Dover Gin. It's not good, but it's significantly better than Starr Blu... and still not as good as Dover. If given an unmarked sample, I'd struggle to identify it as gin. The intensely floral flavor might be misleading. It's very different from Dover, but closer in quality to that bottling than to Starr Blu. Comparing this to commonly tasted gins like Tanqueray or Beefeater is difficult, as they are generally quite good, whereas this is not.

An aromatic bouquet of orange, citrus, and juniper berries greets the nose. The palate is rich with orange, bitter lime peel, and juniper berry, followed by a cinnamon warmth and coriander. The texture is rough yet velvety, with a building heat and a finish of juniper berry and orange citrus.

This gin is quite harsh with a strong citrus flavor. The alcohol scent and taste were more prominent than the fleeting pine notes. I wouldn't even consider it for making a standard gin and tonic.

It's good mixed with a G & T, or with orange or grapefruit juice. Drank straight, it caused a peculiar sensation between my testicles and my anus.

A false citrus note takes over. Rough flavor and an unpleasant lingering finish. All in all, quite bad.

Presents a strong citrus flavor. It's acceptable, but I personally prefer a more pronounced juniper profile.