Koval Cranberry Gin

Cranberry Gin from KOVAL sits in the fruit-infused corner of the gin category, so expect a different balance from a classic London dry. Cranberry is the headline flavor, and styles like this usually pair a tart, red-berry front with a juniper and spice backbone. Juniper is typically quieter than in a traditional dry gin, but it should still give the spirit its piney structure and keep it from tasting like a fruit liqueur. Look for a bright acidity and a crisp, slightly tannic finish rather than candied sweetness. The product details don't give an ABV or botanical list, so check the label for those. Because the cranberry brings its own tartness, this gin does well in simple builds that let it show. A Gin & Tonic is the easiest place to start. Use a dry or Indian tonic rather than a sweet one, about two parts tonic to one part gin, and garnish with an orange peel or a few fresh or frozen cranberries and a rosemary sprig. A Tom Collins works well too, with lemon juice, a little simple syrup and soda, since the fruit and citrus sit together naturally. In a Negroni, a gin like this gives a berry-tart edge to the Campari and sweet vermouth, so use a slightly lighter hand with the vermouth or add an orange twist. It also works in a Martini, though the result is fruitier than usual. Stir it with dry vermouth, go easy on the vermouth, and finish with a lemon twist, not an olive. For serving, use a balloon glass or a tall highball filled with plenty of large ice, which keeps the drink cold and slows dilution. Chilling the gin in the freezer first is fine for stirred drinks, but it will mute some of the fruit aroma if you serve it neat. For food, a cranberry gin and tonic goes well with roast turkey, soft cheeses such as brie or goat cheese, and charcuterie.