Oregon Spirit Dry Gin is an expression from Oregon Spirit Distillers, produced for Total Wine begins from a base of grain and uses pine blossoms and sage, in addition to juniper for a “high desert” themed gin.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Creamy and juniper led, but at a rather low intensity. Hints of lemon oil and cardamom spice on the edges. Subtle, but somewhat classic in presentation
Flavor: Surprisingly warm on entry to the palate— however, as that warmth dissipates it reveals a nicely balanced pine and juniper led heart. Green peppercorn, fresh pine blossom, lime pith and cucumber skin. It fades a bit with the warmth predominating, and a heady does of pine and pine-accented green juniper.
Towards the end, there’s a faint soapy notes that accompanies the warm, drying astringency.
Finish: Dry and fairly astringent. As it dries on the palate it leaves a green, slightly vegetal note with a hint of pine and camphor/sage.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Oregon Spirit Dry Gin is a solid mixing option for fans of pine-forward classic style gins. However, in more complex drinks, it’s not as bold as others, so it may be a bit lost.
Highlighting the positives first— Oregon Spirit Dry Gin is a nice option for a gin and tonic, gin and soda, or gin and lemonade. The level of pine/juniper is a delight for fans of classic style gins. In some of the lighter presentations like the gin and soda, you may get a touch of the heat still.
I think this gin comes up a bit short in some cocktail presentations. Some of the soapy notes and assertive heat overwhelm in a Martini. In the Negroni, you get the heat, but not as much of the bold juniper flavor you might look for.
Overall, Oregon Spirit Dry Gin
Oregon Spirit Dry Gin is a solid middle-of-the-road option. for fans of classic style dry gins. The warmth and astringency might be a bit higher than expected at this $30-$35 price point. However, the flavor is solid and fans of classic gins like Gordon’s will find this gin a worthy alternative.