Blackbird Gin

Blackbird Gin, often presented as The Blackbird's Gin, is produced by Distillerie de Namur in Wallonia and is closely linked to the strawberry-growing tradition of Wépion near Namur. It is described by the producer and retailers as a 100 percent Belgian gin made with real Wépion strawberries, without added colourings, sugars or artificial flavourings. Bottled at 40 percent alcohol by volume in 50 cl format, it positions itself as a naturally coloured, fruit-accented gin that highlights local ingredients and regional know-how.

The gin is built on a classic grain spirit base and undergoes a double distillation. The first distillation takes place in a copper pot still, after which the spirit is redistilled in a rectification column made entirely of copper. This two-step process is designed to obtain a clean and precise spirit while preserving the character of the botanicals. After distillation, real Wépion strawberries are macerated in the gin, releasing their colour, natural fructose and aromatic compounds into the spirit, which explains the soft, natural pink hue without the need for added colouring.

The botanical bill combines traditional gin ingredients with a distinct fruity and floral twist. The bouquet described by the producer includes juniper berries, bergamot, lemon peel, cardamom, lavender and angelica, to which the macerated Wépion strawberries are added. Juniper and angelica provide the classic gin structure, bergamot and lemon peel bring bright citrus notes, cardamom contributes a gentle spice, lavender adds a floral lift, and the strawberries introduce a clear red-fruit dimension.

On the nose, Blackbird Gin offers an aromatic and naturally floral bouquet, with juniper and citrus first, followed by notes of sweet strawberry, light bergamot and hints of lavender. The impression is that of a fresh, slightly gourmand gin rather than a heavily sweetened flavoured spirit. On the palate, the attack is relatively dry for a fruit-led gin, with juniper, lemon peel and bergamot giving direction before the strawberry character unfolds. The strawberry is present but controlled, bringing a soft red-fruit note rather than a candy-like flavour, while cardamom and angelica support the structure with discreet spice and herbal depth.

The finish is medium to long, with lingering notes of berries, citrus zest and a light floral character, and remains clean thanks to the absence of added sugar. The natural maceration of strawberries leaves a gentle fruit persistence without heaviness. Blackbird Gin is commonly recommended as a gin and tonic with a neutral tonic water, served over plenty of ice, garnished with a fresh or frozen strawberry and optionally a few basil or mint leaves to underline the fresh and herbal side of the gin. It can also be enjoyed well chilled and neat as a digestif, where the balance between juniper, citrus, floral notes and the Wépion strawberry can be appreciated in a more concentrated form.