Poli Distillerie produces Marconi 42 in small batches using Crysopea, its vacuum bain-marie still. Made in Schiavon, Veneto, and bottled at 42%, the gin combines juniper with rosemary, mint, basil and thyme, complemented by cardamom and coriander. This combination gives it a distinctly herbal character, with balsamic freshness and a gentle spiced warmth.

The nose recalls fresh herbs, with the resinous scent of rosemary close to the juniper. Mint adds a cooling impression, while basil and thyme introduce softer green notes. The result has the fragrance of aromatic leaves rather than a dominant fruit aroma. When tasted, juniper remains clear as the herbs develop, moving between the drier character of rosemary and thyme and the fresher sensation of mint.

Cardamom and coriander add a lightly spiced dimension to the mouthful. Their warmth follows the greener notes, giving the finish a change of pace without overwhelming the herbal freshness. The balsamic impression continues as the initial mint sensation fades. Small-batch production in the vacuum bain-marie still is a concrete part of this gin's identity, alongside a recipe whose interest lies in the varied character of its herbs: resinous, cooling and gently savoury in turn.

A Mediterranean-style gin and tonic suits that balance. Pair it with a Mediterranean tonic and garnish with a short rosemary sprig and a lemon peel. The rosemary echoes the herbal recipe; the lemon introduces a bright citrus scent that refreshes the palate alongside the tonic. Lightly clap the sprig between your hands before adding it, avoiding crushing the leaves in the drink so the stronger herb does not dominate the basil and mint. A small sprig gives enough fragrance for the gin's more delicate herbal notes to remain perceptible.