Meander Gin is a Belgian London Dry Gin from Deurle, bottled at 42% ABV. Its identity is tied to the bends of the river Leie, but the liquid itself is precise and botanical: macerated, distilled and left to rest without post-distillation infusion. Juniper leads the recipe, supported by coriander, winter linden blossom, lavender, hibiscus, green cardamom and grains of paradise.

The nose opens floral rather than sweet, with linden and lavender bringing softness while juniper keeps the profile clear. Hibiscus adds a gentle colour of flavour without turning the gin fruity, and coriander gives the citrus-spice bridge needed in a London Dry. On the palate, the rhythm becomes more savoury: cardamom and grains of paradise stretch the finish, adding warmth and a peppery lift that keeps the floral notes from becoming too delicate.

For the associated gin and tonic, pour 5 cl of Meander Gin over clear ice, add 12 cl of Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water and garnish with dried grapefruit peel plus one lightly cracked green cardamom pod. Grapefruit sharpens the dry citrus edge while cardamom mirrors the finish. The drink stays elegant and spare, because Meander already has enough floral and spicy detail to carry the glass.

Meander is especially interesting because its floral side is not fragile. The maceration and rest give the gin enough texture for tonic, while the grains of paradise stop the finish from becoming merely pretty. It suits drinkers who want a refined London Dry with a local Belgian story, while still expecting a proper dry finish.