Eugin Primavera is distilled only when primroses are naturally in flower. This seasonal London Dry from Eugin Distilleria Indipendente uses juniper, primrose flowers and young hazel leaves to capture the first weeks of spring. The delicate flowers are steam-distilled to preserve their aroma, and each limited bottle is numbered and signed by the master distiller. The current 70 cl release is bottled at 43.2% ABV.

Primrose gives a soft floral tone with an impression close to honey, while the young hazel leaves bring freshness and a gentle astringency. Juniper remains clearly present underneath with its balsamic, resinous character. The two seasonal ingredients balance one another: the flower supplies roundness, the leaf keeps the palate moving and prevents the sweetness of the aroma from becoming heavy.

The nose opens with primrose, followed by fresh herbs and a steady line of juniper. In the mouth, the leaf is clearer at first, then gives way to resin and more enveloping floral notes. The finish is persistent and soft, but it retains enough dryness to remain recognisably London Dry. The small botanical list is an advantage here, because each ingredient has a distinct role and the progression can be followed without guesswork.

Eugin recommends tasting the gin neat before mixing it, then using a neutral tonic for a Gin and Tonic. Fill a balloon glass with clear ice, add 4 cl of Eugin Primavera and 10 cl of Fever-Tree Indian Tonic Water. Add two edible primrose flowers and a small young hazel leaf to the glass, then arrange another flower and leaf on a dish beside it. Keep the tonic measure restrained so the floral detail remains precise.