Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Gin (75cl, 47%)

A dry gin from Black Forest Distillers GmbH in Loßburg, in Germany's Schwarzwald region, made with 47 botanicals including lingonberries, blackberries, honey pomelo, chamomile, sage, angelica and coriander, sourced largely from the surrounding Black Forest. Production involves maceration, distillation, percolation and oxidation of a molasses-based spirit. What sets it apart is post-distillation maturation: the distillate rests for three months in traditional earthenware containers before being cut to bottling strength with local Black Forest spring water. The nose leads with juniper, then chamomile and sage, wood spices, fresh pine and bright citrus peel. The palate is crisp and juniper-forward, expanding into earthy spices, tart citrus and herbal and fruit notes, with a sweet, fruity turn of lingonberry and blackberry. The finish is long and rich, bursting with botanical detail, ending with a delicate hint of lemon balm.