Southward Charred Lemon Gin

Bright lemon zest, caramelised citrus, juniper and a subtle charred edge make up Southward Charred Lemon Gin. The small-batchSmall batchProduction in small quantities per distillation run, often in a small still. The term has no legal definition.Glossary distillery in Lyall Bay, Wellington, bottles it at 43% ABV and sums up its mood in a few words: golden, sun-soaked, slightly reckless, with bright citrus, a lick of smoke and a little bitterness.

Citrus · Woody · Dry

The first impression is lemon peel, vivid and fresh rather than sugary. As the sip develops, the caramelised citrus brings a warmer, rounder note, and juniperJuniperThe one compulsory botanical: gin must taste predominantly of juniper. Its "berry" is really a small conifer cone, resinous and peppery.Glossary supplies a resinousResinousAn aroma reminiscent of pine or fir resin. It is juniper's signature, due to compounds such as pinene.Glossary counterpoint. The char sits in the background and becomes clearest at the end, adding depth to the dry citrus. Southward describes the finish as long, dry and citrus-led, with a lingering light char. Charring lemon caramelises its sugars and adds a gentle smoky bitterness, so fresh zest, browned citrus and juniper each remain identifiable rather than merging into a simple lemon gin.

That combination suits a gin and tonic and citrus-forward cocktails. A dry or lemon tonic protects the finish, and the gin makes an interesting Tom CollinsTom CollinsA long drink of gin, lemon juice, sugar and soda water, served over ice in a tall glass.Glossary or a GimletGimletGin with lime cordial or sweetened lime juice, served well chilled without ice. It is said to come from the Royal Navy, as a guard against scurvy.Glossary, where the light smoke adds depth to the sour. Because the gin already carries a toasted note, extra smoke or a sweet mixer would weigh the drink down. Over ice, the char appears gradually as the gin warms.

For a gin and tonic, pour 4 cl over ice, add 10 cl of chilled Fever-Tree Sicilian Lemon Tonic and stir gently. Garnish with a charred lemon wheel and a fresh lemon twistTwistA strip of peel twisted over the glass to release its oils, then dropped into the drink.Glossary. The two forms of lemon show the contrast between fresh peel and caramelised fruit, and the tonic reinforces the citrus without masking the dry finish.