Deep violet in the bottle, the Purple Edition is the most striking member of the Flying Goat family from Istarska Kapljica, a distillery in Istria, Croatia. It is bottled at 43% ABV in 70 cl and 20 cl bottles, and the label lists agricultural alcohol, juniper and spices without detailing the spices. In 2024 it won a gold medal at Vinistra Spirits, the Istrian wine and spirits fair.

Citrus · Dry · Spicy

The Purple Edition sits within a range built on the classic Flying Goat Istrian Dry Gin, which uses juniper hand-picked on the uplands of Ćićarija and shows coriander, cardamom and cinnamon with a citrus finish. The range also includes a Golden Edition and a 58% Navy Strength. Istria, the peninsula at the northern end of the Adriatic, has a long tradition of herbal and fruit brandies, and the distillery works within that local culture. Each edition carries the winged goat of the brand, and the Purple version adds the colour that gives it its name.

In the glass, juniper sets a dry, resinous line, with spice and a touch of citrus behind it. The violet colour is the first thing you notice, but the profile remains that of a dry gin rather than a sweet, flavoured spirit. Tasted neat at room temperature, the juniper is easiest to pick out; a little ice softens the spice and brings the citrus forward.

For a long drink, use large ice, a neutral Indian tonic and a thin lemon twist, keeping the garnish light so the colour stays the main visual detail; a thin slice of lemon works just as well. Pour the tonic gradually, since a pale mixer lightens the purple as it lengthens the drink. The gin also works on the rocks, or in stirred cocktails where juniper should remain clearly present, such as a Martinez or a Martini.