Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/455266
january/february 2015 / the tasting panel / 105 London's Calling: You're going to want to make room on your top shelf for SW4 London Dry Gin. Introduced in 2013, it is an elegant, juniper-forward spirit generously endowed with enchanting aromatics and a dry, citrus and spice palate. Get your cocktail shaker ready: SW4 embodies all of the qualities that have made London dry gin an indispensable commodity behind the bar. The gin is produced in trendy Clapham North, South London (which has postal code SW4) at Thames Distiller, a 300-year old distillery and one of only a few independent gin producers remaining in London. SW4 is crafted on a foundation of neutral spirits distilled from U.K.-grown grain. Its 12 constituent botanicals are each slowly macerated in neutral spirits before being five-times distilled in a 500-liter copper pot still made a century ago by craftsmen at famed John Dore & Co. The finished spirit is bottled at an accessible 40% alcohol (80 proof). SW4 has a satiny textured body and a nose brimming with the aromas of piney juniper, citrus, dried herbs and baking spice. Its initial entry is warm and spicy. True to style, its exceedingly dry palate leads off with juniper, followed closely by the flavor of zesty citrus, anise, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg. The lingering finish is subtly floral and spicy warm. "With the return of classic cocktails, it's clear today's consumers are look- ing for more flavor and sophistication from their spirits," said Peter Staley, Managing Director at importer, Luxe Wines & Spirits. "SW4 is an authentic London dry gin with a complex taste profile that really captured our com- pany's attention." In the hands of a skilled mixologist, SW4 has unlimited creative potential. LUXE WINES & SPIRITS www.LuxeWines-Spirits.com Tea-boggin ◗ 1 oz. SW4 London Dry Gin ◗ 3 oz. AriZona Oak Reserve Lemon Tea ◗ 1 oz. cranberry juice ◗ Fresh orange slice ◗ Squeeze juice from orange slice into glass and add all other ingredients. Garnish with cinnamon stick.