Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/776532
122 / the tasting panel / january/february 2017 GIN-UARY A SPIRITED WORK OF ART: NO. 6 BOTANICAL GIN No. 6 Gin ($26) is an artisanal gem made in the American Northwest at the SixSpirits Distillery located minutes from downtown Seattle. Like all of spirits in the craft distiller's portfolio, the small batch gin is a singular slice of the good life. The distillery is an expertly designed facility complete with a custom made, 500-gallon dual pot still and column still designed to produce the purest possible product. In addition, the distillery is outfitted with a modern steam-fired boiler and low-volume testing stills. Combined, the equipment is capable of producing a broad range of classic spirit styles. No. 6 Gin is made on a foundation of pure grain neutral spirits. Its claim to fame is the unusual assortment of six botanicals, most of which are sourced from Seattle's famed Pike Place Market, a mix that also includes locally grown juniper berries, grapefruit peels, black lime, rose hips, cubeb, black tea and cucumber. Each of the botanicals adds a precise dose of character to the final spirit. It is bottled at 47.5% alcohol (95 proof). The gin has crystalline clarity, a lightweight, satiny textured body and an engaging juniper-forward bouquet that is brilliantly supported by a spray of citrus. The grapefruit peels and black lime follow the juniper closely. Make sure you allow ample time for the gin to fully breathe and open up. You'll be richly rewarded for your patience. The mid-palate is a delectable treat loaded with zesty grapefruit and earthy spiciness. The black tea and cucumber are generous contributors to both the body and flavor profile, while the cubeb and rose hips are essential for balancing the citrus. No. 6 Gin is a spirited work of art. It's ideal for serving straight up or featuring in a mixed drink. SIXSPIRITS DISTILLERY flavor with a custom produce outfitted with a Combined, the spirit styles. spirits. Its most of which of which of that also black lime, botanicals adds a 47.5% alcohol textured body and body and body supported by a by a by the juniper breathe and mid-palate is spiciness. The the body and body and body balancing straight up or SIXSPIRITS DISTILLERY