Freeland Spirits Gins (sometimes simply stylized as Freeland Gin) is the flagship gin of Portland’s, women owned and operated, Freeland Spirits. Their gin begins from a grain base and uses a combination of pot distilled and vacuum distilled botanicals.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Bold and herbal, cucumber skin, celery leaf, green juniper, spruce bud, lemon thyme and a nutty hint of fennel seed It’s incredibly herbal with a vegetal facet— bright and vibrant, it’s not soupy or savory. It’s a bright celebration of fresh picked garden herbs. I love this nose.
Flavor: Freeland Gin evolves on the palate, starting out slightly more herbal before showcasing some spice on the finish. Juniper with pithy citrus, eases into slightly bitter cucumber, tarragon and fennel seed. The hints of spice come on mid-to-late in the palate adding a touch of nuttiness. I get fennel seed amid glowing hints of white and pink peppercorn.
As it sits, the fennel blooms into star anise. This especially comes out when ice is added.
Finish: Moderately warm, the herbal notes remain bright and fresh on the back of the palate. Fresh cut rosemary, tarragon and green juniper. Though warm, the mouthfeel is soft.
It leans classic in flavor profile but with a ton of herbs surrounding it.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Freeland Gin is herbal and slightly savory— I think it works best when you lean into it. Try it in a Bijou or Last Word to celebrate those notes of fennel seed and tarragon. In a Dry Martini those botanical notes especially come through as the gentle chill from a stir brings that anise to the fore. Fizz (and ice) like in a French 75 will bring brightness and more anise to the nose.
Celebrating those herbs with harmonious flavors like citrus or floral also work well. Try an Aviation or a Gimlet.
I found it less successful in a Negroni, if only because the herbal notes sank down and became somewhat stewed by my palate. I might make it a 2:1:1 ratio next time to keep those herbal notes bright and up front.
One note for bartenders— and I say this with a sad note because I really enjoy this gin— this might be one of the worst bottles I’ve ever tried to pour. The beautiful, striking shape offers no good place for you to grab. It requires your full attention. So much so that even at home, don’t try to pour this with a wet hand. The lip near the top is all that you have to grip onto. Beware.
Overall, Freeland Spirits Gin
Freeland Spirits Gin is a beautiful, herbal forward gin, with an evolving palate, a lovely nose, and a soft, warm mouthfeel. I don’t review bottles— but that’s my only mild issue.
It works well in a wide range of cocktails and mixed drinks. it has a good amount of juniper and it has its own perspective. It’s not the only herbal gin on the market, but it was one of the best balanced.
Recommended in its category.