The 2023 World Gin Awards named Roots Marlborough Dry Gin the World's Best London Dry Gin. It is made by Elemental Distillers in Marlborough, New Zealand's best-known wine region, at a strength of 45% ABV. The team behind it works in a region better known for Sauvignon Blanc than for spirits. Its other awards include a double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a gold medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Citrus · Dry · Herbal

Each of the six botanicals is named with its origin: juniper from North Macedonia, grapefruit from Gisborne, coriander seed from Hawke's Bay, Motueka hops from Nelson, gorse flower from Marlborough and kawakawa berries from the Kāpiti Coast, north of the capital, Wellington. Five of the six are therefore grown or gathered in New Zealand, a short recipe that ties the gin closely to the country's landscapes.

The distillery describes a juniper-forward palate followed by fresh grapefruit and hop zest, balanced against a highly aromatic nose of kawakawa and gorse. Motueka hops, also used in New Zealand beer, bring a citrus and tropical note; gorse flower, which grows wild across the country, adds a faint coconut scent; and kawakawa berries give a sweet, peppery spice. It finishes long and clean, with a slightly silky mouthfeel and lingering coriander.

Roots is at its best neat over ice or in a Martini, where its precise London Dry structure shows clearly. Lengthened with tonic, it takes a wedge of pink grapefruit, which echoes the Gisborne fruit in the recipe, and a sprig of fresh herbs can stand in for the hops. Keep the tonic measured so the kawakawa and gorse stay noticeable; for a Martini, a dry vermouth and a twist of grapefruit work well.