Marconi 46

Muscat grapes and two pines, mountain pine and Swiss stone pine, feature alongside juniper in Marconi 46. Poli Distillerie makes this Italian gin in Schiavon, Veneto, in small batchesSmall batchProduction in small quantities per distillation run, often in a small still. The term has no legal definition.Glossary using its Crysopea vacuum bain-marie still. Bottled at 46%, it develops a fresh, balsamic character, with mint, coriander and cardamom adding further herbal and spiced nuances.

Spicy · Fruity · Herbal · Earthy

Pine and juniper give the nose a distinctly resinousResinousAn aroma reminiscent of pine or fir resin. It is juniper's signature, due to compounds such as pinene.Glossary scent, fresh and reminiscent of conifer needles. Mint intensifies the cooling impression, while Muscat grapes introduce a softer fruit fragrance. That combination makes the alpine character more varied than pine alone: the grape adds a rounder note beside the sharper green aromas, without obscuring the juniper.

On the palate, the resinous botanicals retain their presence as the fruit and herbs become easier to distinguish. Coriander and cardamom bring a restrained warmth, contrasting with the freshness of the mint. At 46%, the mouthful has intensity, and the progression from fragrant fruit to pine and spice gives it several distinct sensations. The finish prolongs the balsamic notes, with the cooler herbs still perceptible beside the gentle warmth. The vacuum bain-marie distillation and the unusual pairing of grapes and conifers are both central to this recipe's identity.

Try Marconi 46 with an Indian tonicIndian tonicThe classic tonic: sparkling water, bitter quinine and sugar. The name recalls colonial India, where quinine warded off malaria.Glossary. The tonic's bitterness complements the dry-tasting resinous notes, while dilutionDilutionThe water added by melting ice. In the right amount it opens the aromas and softens the alcohol; too much flattens the drink.Glossary makes room for the fruit fragrance. A small mint sprig and two halved Muscat grapes provide a coherent garnish: one recalls the cooling herbs, the other the softer fruit aroma. Keep the mint tip small to avoid covering the pine and juniper. Halve the grapes without muddling them, allowing their fragrance to develop gradually.