The Chehalis Tribe, whose homeland lies an hour outside of Seattle, Washington, opened the first fully licensed distillery on Native American land in the United Stands. It was against the law until 2018. They fought the law, and they won. Their Kayak Gin, is the first gin distilled on tribal land.
Kayak Gin features some botanicals native to the region, including Nootka Rose. The flowers and hips of this small shrub had important roles in indigenous food and medicine.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Bright and coniferous. Douglas fir, with rosemary, tarragon, loamy forest floor and a touch of camphor. The aroma is warm and “woodsy.”
Flavor: Douglas fir and fresh pine needle driven throughout. Early these pine needles bring forth a lighter hint of citrus. Then later, earthier with juniper coming through. Towards the end herbal/floral notes add some lightness: tarragon, heather, bay leaves, and yarrow with a delicate dewy floral glow of rose hips and hibiscus tea.
Finish: Moderately warm with herbal, almost culinary finish. Hints of oregano and bay with a flutter of rose and freshly cracked pine needle.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Fans of juniper forward gins will appreciate the emphasis on juniper/pine notes, but it’s perhaps a bit more pine needle than juniper. In terms of mixing, it mixes like a classic juniper heavy gin as the pine often read as juniper when mixed.
Kayak Gin pairs with vermouth well and makes a great Martini. Further, playing to some of its herbal notes, it will work well in a Gibson or Dirty Martini.
In terms of contrast, Kayak Gin is excellent when complimented with fresh citrus. The Gimlet, the White Lady or the Bees Knees are all winners.
In short, it has enough botanical strength to shine in Negroni with a beautiful pine note— but also the delicacy to work in a Arsenic and Old Lace. Kayak Gin is a versatile mixer.
Overall, Kayak Gin
Kayak Gin is a winner for fans of pine and herbal/juniper gins. Beautifully designed, it works in a range of cocktails.
Highly recommended.