Ginetical The Wooded Edition is a Belgian matured gin bottled at 43% ABV. Based on Ginetical Royal Edition, it uses twelve botanicals and gives a central role to locally growing bog myrtle from Limburg’s Bosland region. Maturation in a bourbon barrel contributes amber colour and notes of wood, vanilla and spice. It was named World’s Best Matured Gin at the 2018 World Gin Awards.

The documented botanicals are Juniper berries, Bog myrtle. Together they give useful tasting landmarks rather than a list to rush through: start by looking for the leading aroma, then notice how juniper and the drier elements shape the middle of the palate. The profile is best judged in stages, because cold temperature and a little dilution often bring the citrus, floral, herbal, spice or fruit notes into clearer focus.

Taste a small chilled measure before making a longer drink. Let it sit briefly, take a first sip, then return after the ice has begun to melt. A measured mixer and clear ice help keep the botanical detail readable. Avoid a heavily sweet or strongly flavoured mixer on the first tasting; it can conceal the balance between the named botanicals and the gin base.

For a reliable Perfect Serve, pour 5 cl of gin over plenty of clear ice and add 12 cl of Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water. Stir once and garnish simply with Bog myrtle. The garnish should echo the documented recipe rather than introduce a competing flavour. Adjust the tonic only after tasting the first sip, so the finish remains clear and the serving stays faithful to the gin's character.