Gunpowder Gin Green

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin with Sardinian Citrus is a 43% ABV Irish gin made by The Shed Distillery in County Leitrim, Ireland. It is a version of the classic Gunpowder recipe reinterpreted with a rare citrus fruit that grows only on the island of Sardinia; its green bottle sets it apart from the classic blue bottle.

What is Sardinian citrus?

Distillery founder PJ Rigney encountered Citrus monstruosa, known locally as "sa pompia", in the Sardinian village of Siniscola. This fragrant, unusual fruit, related to orange and grapefruit, replaces the Chinese lemon used in the classic recipe. Juniper, angelica root, orris root, caraway, coriander, meadowsweet, cardamom and star anise are distilled in medieval-style copper pot stills; Sardinian citrus, grapefruit, lime and gunpowder tea are added by vapour infusion.

What does it taste like?

It is noticeably more citrus-forward than classic Gunpowder. On the nose, a strong citrus reminiscent of orange peel combines with black pepper, earth and tea leaf notes. On the palate, the tea character feels fuller; lemony citrus and earthy tones accompany it.

How should it be served?

It can be served with plenty of ice and a good-quality tonic, garnished with a slice of orange or grapefruit; it is also used in citrus-forward cocktails such as Bramble.

Which dishes does it pair with?

Citrus and tea notes suit seafood, sushi and citrus salads.