Presentation & Background: Last Hope Dry Gin is more than just a spirit; it’s a distillation of the wild, windswept beauty of southern Patagonia. Encased in a sleek bottle that mirrors the clarity and purity of its contents, this gin is a tribute to its origins at the world’s edge. The distillery’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrated by their support for the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund, adds a layer of environmental consciousness to every sip.
Flavor Profile: Taking the first whiff of Last Hope Dry Gin is like opening a door to the dense forests and fragrant flora of Patagonia. The juniper base, expected in a London Dry gin, is beautifully complemented by a bouquet of unique local botanicals like lemon verbena, winter’s bark pepper, and maqui berries, as well as traditional spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Each sip leads you through a vivid landscape of flavors – from the crisp, herbal notes to the subtle, sweet undertones of the exotic berries. The harmonious blend results in a flavor profile that is as complex as it is refreshing.
Sipping Experience: Last Hope Dry Gin, with its robust profile, invites you to savor it neat or on the rocks. Allowing the gin to unfold on your palate reveals layers of earthy, spicy, and citrus notes, ending in a smooth, long finish that echoes the wild essence of Patagonia.
Cocktail Pairings: This gin shines in a variety of cocktails, its complex flavors adding depth and character to each mix.
- G&T / Highball variations: The gin’s botanicals play well with the simplicity of tonic, offering a refreshing and layered experience. Rating: 4/5
- Martini variations: In a martini, Last Hope Dry Gin’s robust profile stands out, balancing the vermouth beautifully. Rating: 4.5/5
- Shaken cocktails: The gin’s complexity is showcased well in shaken drinks, where its diverse botanicals can mingle freely. Rating: 3.5/5
- Negroni variations: The herbal and spicy notes of the gin complement the bitterness of Campari in a Negroni, making for a harmonious and intriguing blend. Rating: 4/5
Conclusion: Last Hope Dry Gin is a testament to the craft of distilling and the richness of Patagonian nature. It’s not just a gin; it’s an exploration of flavor and a journey to one of the most remote and breathtaking places on earth. This gin is a must-try for connoisseurs seeking a unique, earthy, and richly nuanced spirit.