Following my sampling of Tanqueray 0.0%, I have swiftly followed it with another low alcohol gin offering, this time from Warner’s Distillery – their Juniper Double Dry 0%.
This offering from Warner’s is an intriguing one. On their FAQs it’s suggested that they use four methods of extraction – some of the botanicals preferring a lower temperature, some higher, which would suggest to me that it’s a combination of hot and cold (vacuum) distillation, perhaps some infusion, and maybe vapour distillation (like Bombay Sapphire use via their carter head still). Over 90% of the botanicals come direct from their farm (the water is on site too), and include lemon verbena, lemon thyme, myrrh, wormwood and yarrow, along with juniper, cinnamon, and cardamom.
The first thing you’ll notice when you smell Warner’s Juniper Double Dry 0% is the strong juniper aroma. This is followed by notes of citrus, spice, and herbal botanicals. The flavour profile is more spicy than the Tanqueray 0.0% – the former is crisp and clean juniper with a little soft citrus warmth from the coriander. This by comparison has a more hay-like note to it from the soft green herbs, with warm spice coming through from the cardamom and cinnamon.
In a G&T, the juniper comes through, but it’s somewhat softer than the Tanqueray, the tonic brings out the hay notes more, making it softer somehow.
Overall, still a great take on a zero alcohol gin, refreshing and moreish in a G&T – and I can’t wait to try their Pink Berry – a fruitier and more floral offering.