Flavor Profile
Little Bird Gin is a little bit of old. And a little bit of new. The old is a love of nostalgia, and it being distilled in the London Dry style. The new is the contemporary botanical blend and the excitement of being part of the Gin Renaissance. The brand was launched in the UK market in 2013.
The character “Miss Ginger,” on the bottle is a bit tongue in cheek. Ginger is a key botanical in Little Bird Gin, along with nine others. However, the styling and art pays homage to the works (read: pin-up girls) of Alberto Vargas.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Heavy citrus on the nose. White grapefruit flesh, pith and bitter orange. Pleasant with hints of pine on the edges.
Flavor: Again, Little Bird Gin is citrus dominant. Slightly more orange on the palate. Orange with some light floral Neroli facets, evolves into angular coriander. Hints of ginger and juniper come on late; however, that intense citrus note persists.
Finish: Fairly long and warm with pronounced distilled oranges flavor.
Cocktails
The heavy citrus flavor lends itself nicely to mixing where a citrus flavor is desired. Pair it with lemon in a Tom Collins or simply mix it with Tonic or Soda. The orange note is so vivid and literal, that it makes Little Bird Gin a surprise winner in a Gin and Cola. I’d be cautious though mixing it with stronger citrus mixers— think gin and juice, gin and lemonade. It may not shine as brightly as it’s only bringing a citrus note to the drink.
While a bit hot, it has potential in a Martini. It reminds me a bit of an upgraded New Amsterdam Gin. It’s far more complex, with more juniper, and a better orange flavor all around.
Overall, Little Bird Gin
Little Bird Gin will appeal to fans of contemporary, citrus-forward gins. While a bit single-note, there is no doubt— that one note is well executed.