Review: Still Austin American Gin “The Naturalist”
Still Austin is best known for its whiskey production — it’s officially called Still Austin Whiskey Co. — but the (obviously) Austin, Texas-based operation also produces a gin: American gin, as they call it. It’s infused with 12 botanicals, including juniper, coriander, orris root, elderflower, Jamaican allspice, two types of cinnamon, and three types of citrus.
The gin is a gentle expression, fresh and fairly traditional, sticking fairly closely to the London Dry style on the whole, despite a few small twists. Notes of grapefruit peel and sweeter orange notes are evident on the bright nose, which keeps juniper relatively at bay. The palate is herbal with a punch of juniper and feels a little gritty at first, until the influence of sweet, floral elderflower becomes more focused. A touch of camphor on the finish isn’t unpleasant, giving more weight to notes of white flowers, a hint of pepper, and a slight, lingering sweetness.
Solid stuff and quite versatile, especially at this price. Use it especially in more summery tall drinks.
90 proof.
A- / $25 / stillaustin.com
Still Austin American Gin "The Naturalist"
$25
