The appeal of a gin from Trader Joe’s is simple— price. Trader Joe’s Art of the Still, Organic Gin is a good deal, coming in at under $15 for 750 ml of gin.
Based on some research, it appears that this gin may be made at several different distilleries with the same recipe.
Tasting notes
Aroma: Heady and green, with a lot of sage and marjoram. Pink peppercorn just beneath. Surprisingly bright. and complex.
Flavor: Soft, gentle mouth feel. Gentle, light juniper, with a good deal of pink peppercorn, somewhat sweet cassia and ginger root. Camphor adds a background note, that could be read as lavender.
Finish: Moderately long with ginger and angelica root. The finish will read as warm or hot to some drinkers, with a pronounces astringency.
Cocktails and suggested serves
Unsurprisingly, Trader Joe’s Art of the Still Gin might be at its best in mixed drinks. Paired with tonic water, the sage and spicy notes on the finish make a pretty fair, contemporary gin and tonic.
The heat and astringency comes through in cocktails and depending on your aim, they may detract from the experience. I’d recommend against it in gin-heavy cocktails like The Martini; however, it can be acceptable in a Negroni when paired with bold co-stars
Overall, Trader Joe’s Art of the Still Gin
An affordable, well priced gin that checks boxes for being organic. However, it fails to rise above some of the stereotypes of gins at this price point. A bit harsh in terms of mouthfeel and palate. Some might even find some of the flavors reading as a bit fake— at the very best, they’re merely unbalanced.
Gin drinkers looking for a juniper-forward option might be best suited looking for the other Trader Joe’s Gin. Fans of contemporary, herbal gins at an incredibly good price might find something to enjoy here.