Barr Hill Gin

Barr Hill is a Vermont gin bottled at 45% ABV, and the thing that sets it apart from most gins is what goes in after the juniper. Instead of leaning on a long list of citrus peels and spices, it pairs juniper with raw honey. That gives it a rounder, softer middle than the sharp, resinous profile of a London dry. Expect pine and juniper on the nose and up front, then a gentle floral sweetness and a fuller texture on the palate. The honey shows up as body and aroma more than as sugar, and the finish should stay fairly dry. Gins in this style tend to taste less angular than their proof suggests. That juniper-first, honey-rounded balance makes it a good fit for simple drinks where the spirit has to carry the flavor. In a Gin & Tonic, a cleaner, less sweet tonic lets the honeyed texture come through. A wide strip of lemon peel works better than a wedge, and a sprig of thyme or a few lavender buds would suit the floral side. A Tom Collins is another natural choice: the lemon and soda lift the juniper, and the honey notes should fill in the sweetness so you can use less syrup. In a Martini, stir it with a small measure of dry vermouth and finish with a lemon twist. The gin's weight means it holds up even when the vermouth is kept light. A Negroni made with it will taste a little softer and rounder than one built on a bracing London dry. The 45% strength still keeps it from being swamped by Campari and sweet vermouth, and an orange peel expressed over the glass fits well. For anyone who likes a Bee's Knees, the honey base makes this gin an obvious candidate. Shake it with fresh lemon juice and a small amount of honey syrup, or just try a bit less syrup than usual. For serving, use a balloon glass or a tall highball filled with plenty of large, cold ice so the drink stays chilled without turning watery. Keep the bottle at room temperature for mixing, or in the freezer if you'd like to pour it neat or in a very cold Martini. Because of the higher proof, a splash of cold water or a single large cube is a good way to taste it on its own and see how the honey and juniper fit together.