Flavor Profile
The DH Krahn Gin Brand was founded by two graduates of Cornell University. The botanicals (Juniper, Lemon, Orange, Grapefruit, Coriander, and Galangal) are macerated for a period of time before distillation and rested in steel for a few months before bottling.
Tasting Notes
DH Krahn Gin is remarkably smooth. I was quite surprised by the complexity and the interesting combination of flavors.
On the palate, DH Krahn had a nice balance and a hint of lemongrass in addition to some of the aforementioned botanicals. Whereas many gins pick their citrus note, DH Krahn Gin creates a citrus accord by combining three citrus fruits. And the nice citrus forward flavor speaks highly to this approach.
Cocktails
The Vaguely lemongrass flavor I alluded to may be because of the Thai Ginger, but I think if anything it makes this gin faintly exotic and distinctly different from many other gins at this price point. I found it to be very smooth, enjoyable in a martini if a little sweet, but one that it is very accessible particularly to gin novices. I think DH Krahn Gin makes a spectacular gin and tonic, a very good Tom Collins and an interesting Negroni.
One cocktail I made with this gin that was particularly well received was a muddled blueberry and basil cocktail, topped with a splash of soda water. The juniper and coriander helped add a pleasant bit of spice while the blueberries and citrus melded into the background.
Overall
DH Krahn Gin is at its best in a gin and tonic, but this is a pliable gin that can do nearly anything you ask of it and do it well.
A nice departure from traditional dry gins without losing its roots, this is a smooth, aromatic gin that makes for incredibly interesting drinks without a lot of specialty notes needed. You definitely get the juniper on the front end but it leaves you with a very floral, aromatic back end. I’ve never had anything quite like it. I moved to Minnesota so I fear my local sources will go from few to none.
Try a Gin Ricky: DH Krahn, Lemon/Lime Juice, and Palm Sugar. I tried this at a restaurant and have been trying to replicate it since! DH Krahn is not available in Chicago (yet I hope) so I’ll have to ship it in. Wish me luck!
Sounds lovely. Inspires me to make the trip up to NY.