Humdinger Citrus Gin

Humdinger Citrus Gin brings together oranges and lemons from Gisborne with the small-batchSmall batchProduction in small quantities per distillation run, often in a small still. The term has no legal definition.Glossary gin-making of Geraldine Distillery in New Zealand. Bottled at 40%, it is built around bright local citrus while retaining juniper as a clear marker of its gin base. The producer describes it as clean and easy to mix, but its profile has more definition than a simple citrus aroma: a vivid opening of orange and lemon gives way to subtle juniper, followed by a gentle ginger-like warmth. The citrus is the first thing noticed; the juniper and spice give the finish its shape.

Citrus · Spicy

On the nose, the fruit comes forward with a fresh, zesty quality. Orange gives the aroma a rounder, sunnier edge, while lemon keeps it taut and lively.

The palate follows that balance. The initial citrus is juicy and direct, then the juniper appears with a drier, resinousResinousAn aroma reminiscent of pine or fir resin. It is juniper's signature, due to compounds such as pinene.Glossary note that prevents the fruit from reading like cordialCordialA concentrated syrup of fruit (often lime) and sugar, made to be topped up.Glossary. A quiet warmth develops at the back of the sip, recalling ginger rather than sweetness. The finish remains clean and refreshing, with citrus lingering alongside the gin's botanical core.

The distillery makes its gins in small batches and says its botanicals are prepared by hand and infusedInfusionFruit or plants are steeped in the spirit to release their flavour. Done after distillation, infusion often adds colour too, and the gin can no longer be called London Dry.Glossary slowly. For this recipe, fruit from Gisborne provides a specific New Zealand connection, while the gin is distilled and bottled in Geraldine. The 40% strength supports a full aromatic impression without requiring a heavy pour. Citrus Gin has also received competition medals, including gold at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards and silver placements at the London Spirits Competition in several years. Beyond the medals, the clearest guide remains the relationship between the local fruit and juniper.

A gin and tonic gives the citrus enough space to remain vivid. Fill a balloon glassCopa glassA large stemmed balloon glass, popularised by the Spanish gin and tonic: it stays cold for longer and gathers the aromas above the drink.Glossary with clear ice, pour 5 cl of gin and 10 cl of Double Dutch Indian Tonic Water, stir gently once, then finish with a thin orange wheel and a fine strip of lemon peel. The dry tonic lengthens the drink without adding another strong flavour, and the garnish releases fresh oils rather than extra juice. The producer also recommends an orange wheel with a premium tonic. For a shorter drink, the same balance works in a Foghorn or a simple highball, where carbonation lifts the citrus without hiding the juniper.