Alqueva Premium Gin

Alqueva Premium Gin is produced in Portugal under the Alqueva Lake Gin brand, named after Lake Alqueva in the Alentejo region. The lake and its surrounding landscapes are a strong part of the brand identity, linking the gin to an area known for open plains, warm summers and a long agricultural tradition. The Premium expression is positioned as a distilled gin with a citrus-leaning, herbal and lightly spicy profile.

The recipe is built around a classic gin structure led by juniper, supported by coriander seeds and angelica root, with additional botanicals chosen to accentuate freshness and aromatic lift. The botanical selection documented for this gin includes lemongrass, lemon verbena, lemon thyme, lemon peel and orange peel for citrus and green brightness, while cinnamon and cloves contribute a measured warm spice. Liquorice root is included for depth and a subtle natural sweetness, and a note of apple is used to add roundness to the overall balance.

Full technical specifications of the distillation are not publicly detailed in a way that allows verification beyond general statements, but the gin is presented as being distilled in traditional copper stills. It is bottled at 40% alcohol by volume, which keeps the profile approachable while allowing the botanical definition to remain clear.

On the nose, the first impression is fresh and citrus-driven, with lemon peel and orange peel supported by a clear juniper backbone. Lemongrass and lemon verbena bring a bright, slightly green aromatic lift, while the spice elements remain subtle in the background. As it opens, coriander and angelica add a gentle earthy-dry impression that reinforces structure.

On the palate, juniper leads and quickly gives way to layered citrus. Lemon appears in several dimensions, from zest-like brightness to a more herbal lemon character from verbena and thyme. Orange peel adds a softer, rounder citrus tone, while coriander provides a lightly peppery nuance. Cinnamon and clove appear as a restrained warmth rather than overt spice, and liquorice root brings a faint sweetness and depth. The mouthfeel is clean and smooth, and the finish is moderately persistent, leaving citrus peel, light herbal freshness and a soft spice echo.

Alqueva Premium Gin is well suited to a classic gin and tonic with a neutral tonic that will not mask its citrus and herbal components. A simple lemon peel garnish is coherent, and a light sprig of lemon thyme can reinforce the aromatic direction. In cocktails, it works best in straightforward serves that preserve botanical definition, such as a Gin Fizz or a dry style of Collins.