Killdeer Distilling is located in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, a region well known for its wine. While they specialize in whiskey and other spirits, their Killdeer Fir Tip Gin highlights the unique flavor of the humble fir tip. In spring, as trees begin to grow, small, soft green tips emerge. When freshly picked, these tips have a bright, citrusy flavor.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Bold and piney, with deep resinous notes reminiscent of rosemary and dark pine. Subtle hints of sweet corn and toasted cornbread linger around the edges, adding warmth. Overall, it’s well-rounded and classically structured.
Flavor: Assertively pine-forward. It opens gently, with fir buds emerging prominently at the mid-palate.
It begins with rich resinous pine, rosemary, and freshly crushed juniper. Bright citrus notes follow—the zesty side of the fir buds shines through, accompanied by hints of bitter orange zest, lemon pith, and the herbal lift of Cascade hops.
As it develops, the profile shifts to pine blossom and crisp juniper, gradually becoming earthier and lightly waxy. A hint of coriander emerges.
Finish: Long and led by pine, with just a trace of camphor on the fade.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Killdeer Fir Tip Gin is a love letter to pine and juniper. Paired with soda and lime in something like a Rickey, it almost elevates those citrus and hop notes from the pine blossoms.
I think it would also pair really well in herbal cocktails like The Last Word or Southside.
Killdeer Fir Tip Gin is more of a specialty gin. Bartenders would be advised to design drinks around that pine note.
Overall, Killdeer Fir Tip Gin
Lovely and simply executed, this gin is a well made celebration of the fir tip. Juniper stars throughout the palate with the fir tips and rosemary combining to create a truly pine led experience. Fans of pine and classic style gins will find Killdeer Fir Tip Gin a worthy addition to their collection.