Orkney Gin – Rhubarb Old Tom

Nose: The unmistakable smell of rhubarb – crisp and tangy with brown sugar and vanilla, accompanied by spice.

Palate: Sharp rose and rhubarb notes with lemon kick the gin off to a tart start that gradually mellows, introducing baking spice, pine and luxurious vanilla bean.

Finish: Sweet rhubarb notes, now with a thick egg custard flavour reminiscent of rhubarb and custard candy.

Comments: A gin that captures the nature of the fruit and would be well-suited to long mixed drinks or sipping on the rocks.

Nose: An immediate stewed rhubarb hit underlined with candy, pink pepper and heady floral notes of roses, orris, jasmine and honeysuckle.

Palate: Sweet with a tart edge. Rhubarb and citrus, plus ginger, spice and brown sugar.

Finish: Creamy, long and sweet, fruity and comforting.

Comments: The tart rhubarb compliments the sweetness of an Old Tom style gin. It verges on being a liqueur and would work well served over ice with fresh ginger, or simply with a light tonic that would take the edge of the sweetness.