Let’s beGin: our top 10 much loved gins to have at home
For those of you who are left a little discombobulated after a dinner with your hipster mates and their abstract views on the latest Gin derivative, don’t get your lemon in a twist as we’ve got you covered.
We’re about to breakdown the various flavour profiles and contrasts that make South Africa’s newest and trendiest Gins some of the best in the world.
Here are our top 10 Gins that you should consider stocking the next time your pompous mate comes a knocking.
Why we dig it: this is an appealing and complex premium Japanese gin that is utterly delicious. How can a gin that is crafted by Japanese artisans not be?
They use six botanicals, thus it’s woody, grassy, spicy and just expect a va va voom of flavor.
Why we dig it: London doesn’t necessarily mean it was made in London but rather the style is a bitter, dry one. It is a fabulous classic English gin with hints of almond, citrus and lavender.
Why we dig it: we love this African dry gin, which has a strong hint of juniper berries. Not only is it crafted by hand but it helps keep your gin up by taking away the entire lockdown load in just one sip. We recommend a double with a slice of grapefruit, at least once a week!
Why we dig it: this authentic, small batch, African gin inherently linked and born in the Cradle of Humankind is so darn delectable plus the bottle is as pretty as a painting. Keep it as a vase!
We recommend you drink this one with a sugar free tonic and a slice of cucumber. Mmmmmm.
Available in three seductive flavours: wild cucumber, marula and bush willow.
Why we dig it: this brand new, velvet smooth Italian Gin ticks all the juicy boxes. It is ideal for spring, just so fresh and so bright.
Try the zesty clementino flavour, jam packed with fruitiness, acidity and tanginess.
Why we dig it: a handcrafted local South African Gin that is the first Blood Orange Gin in the World.
We love the Amber flavour. You can taste the juniper, it has a sweetness and a spiciness to is which is utterly pleasurable. Plus the bottle is simple yet refined and is sure to impress guests.
Why we dig it: they’re an artisanal distillery in Mossel Bay that takes care of each and every bottle that goes out.
The way these 3 variants are displayed together is beautiful. They possess earthy natural tones and make the perfect centerpiece. Don’t dare throw these bottles away.
The taste is a combination of fruity, grassy and spicy and has a distinct body and character. It’s a gin-gin situation.
Why we dig it: it is a rich and aromatic gin best served with a pink tonic water sitting close to a fire with friends and family. It is a well respected gin and it is easy to understand why. Invigorating and bold, we dare you to try just have one.
Why we dig it: because it celebrates our local, organic Rooibos and if like us you’re a Rooibos addict, this one’s for you. We love the label too.
Add ginger and orange for a flavor bursting sensation.
10. Cape Fynbos Gin
Why we dig it: this easy drinking gin, the citrus variety, has a delicately balanced taste. It just sits right on the palate.
Refreshing citrus aromas underpin this one so serve it neat, single shot over ice or with a dash of tonic.
#HelloRecommends the following mixers for your next Gin Cocktail for a unique taste experience.
- A1 Sugar Free Fruit Water produced in South Africa with zero calories. Available in mandarin, lemon and grapefruit flavours.
- Fever Tree Light Tonic made with natural cane sugar.
- Woolworths 1L Tonic with no preservatives. Available in sugar free option too.
