St. George Terroir Gin is a bold and aromatic tribute to California's rugged landscapes, crafted with wild-foraged botanicals like Douglas fir, California bay laurel, and coastal sage. Distilled in Alameda, California, this modern gin masterfully balances its herbaceous complexity with a pine-forward aroma, subtle notes of roasted coriander, and a refreshing hint of citrus. Bottled at 45% ABV, it conjures the essence of a forest in every sip, offering a rich and smooth texture with a lingering, woodsy finish. Perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the star of a spirit-forward cocktail, St. George Terroir Gin is an adventurous choice for gin enthusiasts seeking an evocative and uniquely Californian experience.
Process & Profile
The creation of St. George Terroir Gin is a tribute to the wilderness of Mount Tam in Northern California. This small-batch gin is crafted using wild-harvested botanicals such as Douglas fir, California bay laurel, and coastal sage, along with ten more expertly selected ingredients. The distillation process is meticulous: the fir and sage are distilled separately to ensure consistency, while juniper berries and fresh bay laurel leaves are vapor-infused to capture their delicate essence. The team even roasts coriander seeds in a wok for an earthy depth, showcasing their commitment to innovative flavor development. This process results in a gin that is both profoundly aromatic and authentically Californian.
Tasting Notes
St. George Terroir Gin presents an immersive olfactory experience. On the nose, expect bold notes of pine buds, spruce, and fir, reminiscent of a quiet forest glen. The palate builds on this with layers of sage, earthy juniper, and hints of roasted coriander. As the flavors progress, a touch of citrus and minty coolness emerges, adding brightness to its rich, woodsy character. The finish is smooth, lingering with sage and light spices, making it a spirit that is both evocative and refreshingly complex.
What Makes It Special
What sets St. George Terroir Gin apart is its deeply rooted connection to place. Master distiller Lance Winters drew inspiration from California's coastal forests, aiming to bottle the feeling of walking through sun-dappled chaparral or towering groves of redwoods. Its wildcrafted ingredients and innovative techniques make it a masterpiece for those seeking a spirit with personality and a strong sense of identity. It's no surprise that this gin is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive in America, earning praise for its evocative, lyrical flavor profile.
How to Enjoy
St. George Terroir Gin is as versatile as it is unique. Try it in the following ways:
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Neat or on the rocks: For a pure, immersive tasting experience.
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In a martini: Pair with dry vermouth and a sage leaf garnish to elevate its herbaceous notes.
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In a Gin & Tonic: Add a simple splash of tonic water and garnish with fresh fennel or bay leaf for a refreshing twist.
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Signature cocktails: Experiment with creative combinations like the "Terroir Martini" or an "American Werewolf," blending ingredients like Bruto Americano and sweet vermouth for a sophisticated sip.
St. George Terroir Gin is not just a drink—it's an exploration of California's natural grandeur. From its bold flavors to its inventive production, it stands as a testament to the artistry and passion of the St. George Spirits team. Whether you‚Äôre a seasoned gin aficionado or a curious newcomer, this is one spirit you won‚Äôt want to miss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes St. George Terroir Gin unique?
St. George Terroir Gin is an ode to California's diverse wilderness, offering an aromatic profile that captures the essence of a forest. Key botanicals include Douglas fir, California bay laurel, sage, and citruses like lemon and Seville orange peel, crafted to evoke landscapes of misty glens and sunlit chaparrals. The gin's distinctiveness is enhanced by techniques such as wok-roasting coriander and distilling fir and sage separately to preserve their vibrant character.
What are the tasting notes of St. George Terroir Gin?
This gin has a forest-inspired flavor profile with dominant woodsy notes of Douglas fir, sage, and California bay laurel. It also features hints of citrus, coriander spice, and subtle resinous juniper. The finish is crisp and cool with a touch of sage and spice, resulting in a rich, herbaceous complexity.
How is St. George Terroir Gin produced?
Using a combination of vapor infusion and direct distillation methods, botanicals like juniper and bay leaves are infused into the spirit in small batches. Some botanicals, such as coriander, are wok-roasted to amplify flavor, while fresh California bay laurel leaves and juniper are vapor-infused. Each botanical is treated with techniques that highlight its unique qualities.
What is the alcohol content of St. George Terroir Gin?
St. George Terroir Gin has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 45%, providing a bold yet smooth drinking experience.
What are the best ways to enjoy St. George Terroir Gin?
Thanks to its complex, herbaceous flavors, this gin is highly versatile. It can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, in a classic martini paired with dry vermouth, or in a gin and tonic for a refreshing twist. For more adventurous cocktails, try mixing it with sweet vermouth or bitters for unique creations like the "American Werewolf" or a Bramble.
What foods pair well with St. George Terroir Gin?
The herbaceous and citrus-forward flavor profile of St. George Terroir Gin pairs beautifully with Mediterranean dishes, roasted vegetables, herb-crusted fish, or citrus-glazed poultry. Its piney notes also complement savory, earthy flavors like mushrooms or truffle-based dishes.
Is St. George Terroir Gin widely available?
Yes, this gin is widely available in 750 mL and 200 mL bottle formats. Distribution includes both local retailers and online platforms, making it accessible for purchase across most regions.
How does St. George Terroir Gin compare to traditional gins?
Unlike classic gins that highlight juniper as the primary botanical, St. George Terroir Gin balances its juniper notes with distinctive woodsy and herbaceous flavors. Its bold emphasis on local California botanicals sets it apart as a contemporary and innovative gin that retains traditional craftsmanship.
What inspired the creation of St. George Terroir Gin?
The gin was inspired by the natural beauty of California's landscapes, including its monumental groves and coastal regions. Distillers aimed to capture the essence of the Golden State in a bottle, making it a highly aromatic and unique spirit that recalls the outdoors with every sip.
Does St. George Terroir Gin have any sustainability practices?
Yes, the Douglas fir used in this gin is harvested seasonally in Mendocino as part of fire abatement efforts. This reflects a commitment to sustainable practices while celebrating local resources.