Cadenhead's Old Raj Dry Gin - 55%
Details
Cadenheadʼs Old Raj Gin is distinctive in that it contains a measure of saffron, the rare and costly spice derived from the crocus flower. In addition to a slightly spicy flavour, this also imparts a pale yellow colour to the Old Raj.
The addition of the saffron is undertaken personally by the company chairman, in order to ensure a consistency in flavour and colour each time Old Raj is bottled.
Old Raj is bottled at two strengths, 46% ABV and 55%ABV. This represents a further departure from standard gin bottling’s which are generally bottled at 40% ABV or less. Old Raj is a quality-orientated product targeted at the knowledgeable spirits consumer.
The gin is produced by compounding a gin flavour (essence) with a neutral Scottish grain spirit. The gin essence is prepared by steeping the botanicals, principally juniper, but also coriander seed, angelica root, lemon and orange peels, orris root, cassia bark and almond powder in an alcohol/water mixture for 36 hours and then distilling after a partial reflux in a small pot still.
Tasting notes.
Nose - Perfumed, aromatic and smooth.Just like the 46% Vol. expression it tingles with flavour as the fresh botanicals open one after the other.
Palate - As the fresh botanicals dance across the palate, the saffron adds a subtle creamed vanilla edge. But even more intense and rich. As this gin hits the palate you will find a deeper more rounded taste with a slight citrus tone pushing through.
Finish - The 55% has all the tasting notes of the 46% but more intense!! Its easy to see why this gin is highly sought after.
Old Raj Gin produced by Cadenhead Scotland's oldest independent bottler, founded in 1842.
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