drinking: flavored gin

Some of my favorite memories involve the simple pleasure of strolling the aisles at my favorite libation emporium; Argonaut Liquors. 

Wandering about like an explorer on a noble quest for a good sale, looking for something new that catches my eye, flirting with the inevitable liquor promo girl…

For me, it’s all a delight.

Although I fancy myself rather versed (i.e. a notch or two above mildly retarded) when it comes to tequila and vodka, gin has been a ‘final frontier’ of sorts that thus far, I’ve approached cautiously.

The citrus kissed, slightly pricy Tanquerey Ten stands as my favorite; while the more economical Beefeater can oft be found chilling in my freezer ready for gin & tonics.

But many’s the time Greg and I have stood staring in bewilderment at the vast assortment of juniper based delights, wondering how best to expand our horizons.

Thankfully, The Authentic Bartender has news of a coming revolution: Flavored Gins.

Softer, experimenting with a variety of fruits and herbs, the new generation of gins is not for the Bombay purist.

Ever had a martini with a hint of saffron?

Cadenhead’s Old Raj, a pretty high-end bottling from Campbeltown, Scotland, is a fabulous gin that delivers exactly that, and although the juniper really shines through well in this one, the saffron makes its presence known too.

Not to be outdone, DH Krahn pushes the envelope even further

DH Krahn gin is described by the Beverage Tasting Institute as featuring “subtle citrus, banana custard and mild botanical aromas.” The producers, New York-based DH Krahn, say they use a “touch of Thai ginger” in their formula.

I’ll drink to that.