An Dúlamán Memories of Asia

An Dúlamán Memories of Asia is a limited expression created by Sliabh Liag Distillers in County Donegal, Ireland. It departs from the seaweed driven character of the original An Dúlamán by exploring ingredients traditionally associated with East Asian flavours and aromas. The gin was inspired by journeys and cultural influences linked to Asia, and it reflects the intention of the distillery to experiment beyond its maritime signature while remaining anchored in artisanal small batch distillation.

The recipe brings together classic juniper with a range of botanicals chosen for their aromatic and symbolic links to Asia: oolong tea, ginger, sesame seeds, hibiscus flowers, sakura or Japanese cherry blossom preserved in salt, kaffir lime leaves and star anise. Juniper remains the structural backbone, while the tea introduces gentle tannins and a subtle smoky softness. Ginger adds warmth and vibrancy, sesame lends a lightly nutty depth, hibiscus contributes a delicate floral acidity, and kaffir lime leaf provides a bright, zesty citrus lift. Star anise and salted sakura complete the profile with a soft sweetness and a lightly savoury, umami accent.

On the nose, the gin shows an interplay between fresh citrus leaf, floral tones and warm spice. Notes of dried flowers, green tea and citrus zest are layered over a clear juniper core. On the palate, it is smooth and balanced, moving from pine and bright lime towards warmer flavours of ginger, anise and a gentle nuttiness from the sesame. The salted cherry blossom introduces a subtle savoury edge that sets this gin apart from more classical styles, giving it depth without overpowering the structure. The texture is soft and rounded, and the finish is moderately long with lingering floral and spicy notes, alongside a lightly dry and aromatic aftertaste.

Distilled in small batches at the Ardara distillery on the Atlantic coast of Donegal, An Dúlamán Memories of Asia is bottled at 41 percent alcohol by volume. It is well suited to a clean and restrained serve in a gin and tonic, ideally with a neutral tonic and a simple citrus garnish, allowing the more delicate tea, flower and spice notes to remain clearly expressed. It can also be used in light, aromatic cocktails where its floral and herbal complexity can play a central role without the salt driven character of the original maritime expression.