Strange Omen Small Batch Gin

Grape spirit forms the base of Strange Omen Small BatchSmall batchProduction in small quantities per distillation run, often in a small still. The term has no legal definition.Glossary Gin, made at Iron House's distillery on Tasmania's east coast. Juniper and Tasmanian pepperberries are joined by lemon myrtle, angelica, liquorice root, whole orange, rose petals and cinnamon; the gin, at 45% ABV, comes in a 700 ml bottle. The grape base sets it apart from gins distilled from grain.

Citrus · Spicy · Floral

Iron House describes a soft mouthfeel and floral notes, followed by a gently peppery, slightly sweet finish where citrus and juniper remain perceptible. The grape spirit gives that soft, rounded texture, while lemon myrtleLemon myrtleThe leaf of an Australian tree with an intense lemon scent, purer than zest and without acidity.Glossary and whole orange bring the citrus. Tasmanian pepperberries add the local spice, building slowly on the palate. Rose petals and cinnamon broaden the gin with floral and warm notes, and angelica and liquorice root give it depth and a touch of natural sweetness, without turning it into a liqueur. Whole orange brings both peel and a softer fruit note.

The producer recommends Strange Omen on ice with a twist of limeTwistA strip of peel twisted over the glass to release its oils, then dropped into the drink.Glossary, and also suggests a Cosmopolitan or a Tom CollinsTom CollinsA long drink of gin, lemon juice, sugar and soda water, served over ice in a tall glass.Glossary. The Collins is the most direct way to keep the citrus and juniper in view: lemon juice adds freshness, soda lengthens the drink, and a measured amount of syrup softens the acidity without hiding the floral and peppery notes. In a Cosmopolitan, the orange and rose sit naturally beside cranberry and orange liqueur.

For the Tom Collins, shake 5 cl of Strange Omen with 2.5 cl of fresh lemon juice and 1.5 cl of sugar syrup. Strain into a tall ice-filled glass, top with 8 cl of soda water and stir gently. Add a lime wheel and a lemon-peel twist inside the glass, in line with the maker's lime suggestion.