THE HERBALIST YASO GIN Hasegawaya Limited Edition 2024

Eight months in a cask previously used by an Islay distillery shape this Hasegawaya-exclusive YASO gin, released at 57% ABV in January 2024.

Woody · Limited Edition · Spicy · Navy Strength

Juniper is the botanical named for this limited bottling. It gives the spirit its defining gin character, while the cask adds a different frame: the producer describes smoky and coastal aromas alongside a pronounced juniper note. Eight months in wood bring those elements together without changing the fact that this is presented as gin rather than whisky. The 57% bottling strength is part of the release's identity, giving the aromas concentration and making dilutionDilutionThe water added by melting ice. In the right amount it opens the aromas and softens the alcohol; too much flattens the drink.Glossary an important part of tasting it.

In the glass, the most useful point of reference is the contrast between juniper and the cask's smoke and coastal character. A small neat pour can show the spirit at full strength; adding a few drops of water gradually lowers the alcohol intensity and gives the aromas more room. A large measure of ice will soften the palate, although it will also dilute the drink more quickly. Juniper remains the only botanical at work; everything else comes from the cask.

For the Perfect ServePerfect serveThe way the producer recommends serving the gin (glass, tonic, ratio, garnish) to show it at its best.Glossary, fill a clear glass with ice, pour 5 cl of gin and 10 cl of Archibald French Tonic, stir gently once and add a few juniper berriesJuniperThe one compulsory botanical: gin must taste predominantly of juniper. Its "berry" is really a small conifer cone, resinous and peppery.Glossary, which repeat the edition's only botanical; strongly aromatic herbs or fruit would compete with the juniper and cask notes. This is also a natural gin for a spirit-forward cocktail in which its strength can stand up to other ingredients. The most revealing serve, however, is a measured tasting with gradual dilution. It shows how the 57% strength, juniper and eight months in an Islay whisky cask shape this retailer-exclusive release.