Etsu Double Orange Gin (70cl, 43%)

Etsu Double Orange is a Japanese gin built around Japanese bitter orange peel. The botanicals include juniper berries, liquorice root, angelica root and coriander seeds, which macerate in alcohol for seven days before being removed. The distillate is then diluted with water from the Ōu Mountains to 43%. The green bitter orange peels give the gin body and its citrus character. Coriander adds a little sweetness and a minty note, juniper a peppery note, liquorice root brings anise, wood and light bitterness, and angelica root contributes bitterness and warmth. It suits a gin and tonic or as a cocktail base. On the nose there are freshly peeled oranges with a subtle spicy note. On the palate the gin is lively and balanced, with the warmth of bitter orange joining zesty citrus notes. The finish is soft and refreshing, with orange peel lingering alongside gentle floral notes.