Portland Distilling Company’s Goldie’s Gin looks quite traditional at first glance— corn base, seven of the most commonly used gin botanicals. It’s almost a throwback to the London Dry Gins of yore. Even the ABV at 92 proof feels uncommon in an era when established brands are lowering their ABV.
They only opened their doors in 2024, but Goldie’s Gin is a strong first product for the nascent distillery.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Juniper, dry coriander—specifically that aroma of coriander with a nutty, slightly peppery undertone. Hints of cumin seed and some citrus, especially orange, as background notes. A bit dry, but quite classic on the nose.
Flavor: Lemon jumps out first on the palate. Bright and citrus-forward, with some tangerine zest. It breezes into a heartier, spice-led center. Nutty coriander evokes hints of pecan and white pepper. Juniper follows, with woody linalool and a hint of rose hips. Moderate warmth throughout.
Finish: Nutty, with some rooty, earthy licorice giving an unctuous, slightly sweet perception—soft and long-lasting, with hints of dried marjoram.
Juniper is present throughout, but it doesn’t show a piney note—instead, it showcases the more complex woody, resinous, and herbaceous sides of the botanical.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Behind the bar, Goldie’s Gin is a versatile mixer—but it highlights some of those secondary classic gin botanicals more than juniper. You’ll get citrus and some woody coriander in a gin and tonic. The French 75 elevates some of those background floral notes to the front, riding on sparkling wine.
The Tom Collins was my favorite of the drinks I tried. The fresh lemon elevates the juniper, lemon, coriander, and licorice root—it wasn’t Gordon’s, but it read very classic all the same.
Behind the bar, it might not be a 1:1 replacement for classic, centuries-old staples like Tanqueray—but it works well in a wide range of drinks. I think bartenders will find Goldie’s Gin a welcome addition for mixing and cocktail craft.
Overall, Goldie’s Gin
Goldie’s Gin is a versatile, classic-leaning gin that works well behind the bar and in a variety of home cocktail applications.
Moreover, it’s a gin that goes back to its roots—a very classic formula, but one that shows classic doesn’t have to taste the same as everything else. That traditional botanical bill leaves plenty of room for putting a distinct spin on a centuries-old formula.
Goldie’s Gin puts its own spin on the classic botanical bill, resulting in a versatile and unique gin.
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