Three Cuts Pinot Barrel Rested Gin

Nose: Citrus and floral notes, juniper, coriander, and faint grape marc. Palate: A sweet and slightly umami arrival leading into an interesting palate where barrel flavors (oak, tannin, and residual wine) contend with gin botanicals. The texture is good, but the spirit has a lean character. Finish: Medium. Spices, semi-sweet wine, and oak. This barrel-conditioned gin is made by Turner Stillhouse in Grindlewald, Tasmania. It’s an intriguing barrel-aged gin and possibly the sweetest I’ve encountered. The casks are immediately noticeable, not so much for imparting an oak character, but rather for the strong residual red wine presence that makes the gin sweet and fruity. The oak itself comes through as a bright spicy note in the finish. While I enjoyed it, it’s not suitable for mixing. I can’t imagine drinking it except neat, and I didn’t like it enough to purchase it solely for that purpose. It was interesting to taste, but there’s a small market for this type of spirit, especially at its price point. “Above Average”: 82/100 (3.25 stars)