Xoriguer Mahon Gin

Xoriguer is made in Mahon, the harbour capital of Menorca, where Destilerias Xoriguer have distilled gin since the eighteenth century. The method is gloriously old-fashioned: the base is a grape eau de vie, the stills are fired by wood, and after distillation the spirit takes a brief rest in American oak. The botanical bill stays a family secret, guarded as part of the brand's lore, and the windmill on the label, the one that gives the gin its name, still turns above the town. It was first produced for British sailors stationed on the island.

The nose is fresh and fruity, opening into a palate that runs floral and lightly spiced with clear citrus and a firm juniper spine. The short spell in oak lends a soft woody warmth that lingers well after the sip. Pour it long over ice with tonic and an orange twist, or sip it neat to catch the Mediterranean character.