Uncle Val's Botanical Gin is a masterfully crafted small-batch gin inspired by Tuscan flavors and timeless American distillation techniques. Infused with a unique blend of cucumber, lemon, sage, lavender, and juniper, this gluten-free gin delivers a refreshingly smooth and complex taste profile, blending subtle floral and citrus notes with a gentle herbal finish. Distilled five times for unparalleled purity, this versatile spirit shines both as a sipping gin and in cocktails such as martinis or Negronis, offering a luxurious experience for newcomers and gin aficionados alike. Encased in an elegant, antique-inspired bottle, Uncle Val's Botanical Gin embodies craftsmanship and sophistication, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a distinctive and memorable addition to their liquor collection.
Process & Profile
Uncle Val's Botanical Gin is distilled five times from a neutral grain base, ensuring exceptional purity and a smooth texture. This American “wet” style gin features botanicals that are infused post-distillation, including juniper, cucumber, lemon, sage, and lavender. Inspired by the founder's Italian uncle, Valerio Cecchetti, the botanical selection reflects his favorite cooking ingredients, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing flavor profile. Gluten-free and crafted without artificial additives, Uncle Val's epitomizes quality and elegance.
Tasting Notes
Uncle Val's delights the senses with its distinct layers of flavor:
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Nose: Bright citrus aromas of lemon and tangerine mingle with lavender and subtle cucumber notes.
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Palate: A smooth opening of crisp cucumber and fresh lemon transitions into floral hints of lavender, sage, and a touch of herbal spice. Piney juniper provides a gentle backbone.
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Finish: The experience concludes with a warm lavender and citrus finish, softened by the cool, refreshing cucumber.
This gin's texture is moderately viscous, offering a lingering and luxurious mouthfeel with a delicate complexity.
What Makes It Special
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Mediterranean Inspiration: The botanicals are not only culinary staples but also evoke the essence of Tuscan gardens.
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Artisanal Craftsmanship: Handcrafted in small batches, it embodies meticulous attention to detail.
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Innovative Infusion: Post-distillation infusion ensures vibrant and authentic botanical flavor without compromising clarity or smoothness.
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Versatile & Unique: Unlike traditional juniper-heavy gins, Uncle Val's emphasizes balanced floral, citrus, and herbal notes, making it approachable for a wide range of palates.
How to Enjoy
Uncle Val's Botanical Gin is a versatile spirit that complements various cocktails or can be savored simply:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Its smooth profile makes it perfect for sipping.
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Martini: Pair with a high-quality dry vermouth (6:1 ratio) and garnish with a lemon twist for a sophisticated cocktail.
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Gin & Tonic: Highlight its cucumber and lemon notes with a light tonic water and a lime wheel garnish.
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Creative Cocktails: Mix it into a Ramos Gin Fizz, Bees Knees, or Negroni for an elevated drinking experience.
Uncle Val's Botanical Gin is a celebration of Mediterranean botanicals and innovative distillation. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or new to the spirit, its refreshing and complex character ensures every sip is memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Uncle Val's Gin unique?
Uncle Val's Gin stands out due to its small-batch, handcrafted production process and distinctive botanical blends inspired by Tuscan cuisine and gardening. Its primary botanicals include cucumber, lemon, sage, lavender, and juniper, which create a smooth, refreshing flavor profile. The gin is distilled five times using purified water for exceptional purity and flavor.
What are the main varieties of Uncle Val's Gin?
Uncle Val's offers three main varieties:
- **Botanical:** A floral and citrus-forward gin with cucumber, lemon, and lavender.
- **Restorative:** Featuring cucumber, coriander, and rose petals for a crisp and savory taste.
- **Zested:** Inspired by vibrant flavors, it includes bergamot orange, barley malt, and juniper for a bold, zesty profile.
Is Uncle Val's Gin gluten-free?
Yes, Uncle Val's Gin is gluten-free and made with all-natural ingredients without any artificial flavors, colors, or additives.
How should Uncle Val's Gin be enjoyed?
Uncle Val's Gin is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. It pairs well in classic gin cocktails such as martinis, Negronis, or gin fizzes. For a unique experience, try it in recipes like the "Bees Knees," which highlights its botanical flavors.
What is the story behind Uncle Val's Gin?
The gin is named after Valerio Cecchetti, an Italian gardener and cook whose love for fresh ingredients inspired the botanical selection. Created by August Sebastiani, Uncle Val's Gin pays homage to the history of gin, which originated in medicine, making the connection to Uncle Val's culinary legacy even more meaningful.
What is the distillation process for Uncle Val's Gin?
Uncle Val's Gin is distilled five times from a corn-based neutral spirit. Botanicals are added post-distillation, following a compound gin process that allows precise control of flavor while ensuring high purity and smoothness.
Does Uncle Val's Gin contain artificial ingredients?
No, Uncle Val's Gin is made with only natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Can Uncle Val's Gin be used in cocktails?
Absolutely! Uncle Val's Gin is a great base for cocktails due to its balanced botanical flavors. It works well in classics like martinis, gin and tonics, or more inventive recipes like the "Bees Knees," which complements its fresh cucumber and citrus notes.
Is Uncle Val's Gin suitable for sipping neat?
Yes, all varieties of Uncle Val's Gin are crafted to be smooth enough for sipping neat, while also being versatile for mixing in cocktails.