Ferdinand’s Saar Dry Gin Cask Strength in Tinbox

From the steep vineyards of Germany's Saar valley comes a cask-strength gin with vineyard roots: Ferdinand's is distilled in small copper pot stills and laced with a whisper of local Riesling, the same grape that climbs the slate slopes outside the distillery. Bottled at a fearsome 66.6% in its tinbox livery, this is the unbridled version of a gin already known for its complexity, the herbs and juniper presented without dilution to soften them.

The nose is layered and intense, juniper and garden herbs cut through with citrus and the fresh fruit of the Riesling. On the palate that power turns expressive rather than harsh, a firm pine backbone supporting balanced herbs and a gentle vinous sweetness, while the finish runs long and warming with a lingering herbal echo. Stir it into a Negroni where its strength can stand up to the bitters, or serve over ice with mature Manchego.