Monson’s Dry Gin

Flavor Profile

Bottled in France, very little seems to have been written about Monson’s Dry Gin out there. Not much about the brand has been written, though it was bottled by a company with a long history. The bottle itself reads as a bit inexpensive, which the price supports. So really a bargain brand, we can right off the bat assume that this is a gin best designed for mixing.

Tasting Notes

Lemon zest, a hint of citrus hard candy, with juniper and spice notes around the edges. It generally has a classic aroma, with a slight citrus bent.

The palate begins with a hefty dose of cooked coriander, which is the backbone for the entire taste. There’s a slight lemon lift in the middle, with juniper coming on as well behind the scenes. Perhaps a hint of cinnamon and angelica towards the finish, which is still largely corianderesque. The finish is leaning towards the long side of medium length, with a surprising amount of heat for a spirit bottles at 37.5%. The spirit itself is rather thin tasting and lacking in complexity.

It’s really very close to what I might have expected. It’s a little lacking in balance and complexity, which makes it hard to recommend over many other good options. I’d have to say it reminds me most closely of  McCormick Gin, though I might rank that one a bit higher than this one. For the price, I’d recommend sticking to an old standby like Gordon’s which delivers more nuance and flavor.

Cocktails

Monson’s Dry Gin is an inexpensive mixing gin and works well as such. It adds a subtle juniper note to the Gin and Tonic, while lacing the complexity needed to pull of The Martini or an Arsenic and Old Lace.

Overall

Rather expected, Monson’s Dry Gin delivers on the promise of gin, though with a touch more baked coriander on the palate than I would have liked. Even at this price point, for mixing, there are better gins out there.