Taylor & Smith Dry Gin (500ml)

Taylor & Smith is made up of Natalie Smith and Ben Taylor, based in Moonah, a suburb of greater Hobart. The base spirit (in part) is from Tassie apples from the Huon Valley that the duo ferment and distill themselves. A nod to a London Dry, their Dry Gin (as opposed to their standard gin) features the four key botanicals of sage, abalone shell, Huon Pine needles and red grapefruit.

Fresh sage is grown in the distillery garden and shells are sourced whilst on family abalone dives. Once cleaned, the shell is dried and broken into tiny pieces to infuse in the gin. Abalone shell, used in Chinese medicine, is a calcium carbonate that neutralises acids and adds a slight salinity to the spirit. Huon Pine (Lagarostrobos franklinii) is a species of conifer native to Tasmania. It's found by the edge of rivers and is an incredibly slow-growing, revered local timber. The needles provide piney notes that differ to juniper and add to the complexity. Try this in a dry martini, with dry tonic and a sprig of rosemary. Also makes for a fabulous Oyster Martini. 46% Alc./Vol.

Awards: Best Small Batch Spirit, Tasting Australia Spirit Awards, 2020
Gold: - Gin, Tasting Australia Spirit Awards, 2020