Product Review
At 46% alcohol by volume, the saffron-spiked red label version is strong (but not as strong as the overproof blue label version). This is an intriguing, old style of gin, with a faintly yellowish tinge and light, earthy flavors that wind into a complex, spicy finish marked by hints of black pepper, anise and cassia bark. Best when served very cold.
Gin has come a long way since its infamous origins as the scourge of the working classes in 18th century in England. Once called "mother's ruin," gin and its closest relative, Jenever, enjoyed mass popularity during the early 20th century, in cocktails and punches across the globe, but declined with cocktail culture in the 60's and 70's. The international resurgence of martinis and speakeasies has led to a boom in microdistilleries producing high-quality gins for all tastes, from dry to sweet, and with all the aromatic variety of a spice market.
