My cousin Yva has been working hard to develop her gin brand, Jaunty Camper Gin. She has been an alchemist with her concoctions. Using surprising ingredients like green tomatoes, purple basil and damsel berries, she has come up with some mind blowing and unique Scottish recipes. It made me wonder about what other common botanicals we had around the garden that could form the basis of a great gin flavour.
Scotland, a land steeped in tradition and known for its rich botanical heritage, offers a unique opportunity to cultivate a garden that not only showcases the natural beauty of the region but also provides a selection of homegrown botanicals for crafting your very own gin. In this article, we explore five distinctive botanicals that thrive in Scottish gardens and serve as flavourful ingredients for crafting artisanal gins. From earthy juniper berries to zesty citrus fruits, these garden treasures will awaken your senses and inspire a delightful gin-making journey.
Juniper Berries
As the essential ingredient in gin production, juniper berries (Juniperus communis) hold a special place in Scottish gin-making traditions. Known for their distinct piney flavour and aroma, these blue-black berries add depth and complexity to gin recipes. Juniper berries can be cultivated in Scottish gardens, providing a sustainable source of this quintessential gin botanical.
Citrus Fruits: Lemon and Lime
Adding a refreshing citrus twist to your gin, lemon (Citrus limon) and lime (Citrus aurantifolia) bring a zesty brightness to botanical blends. While citrus trees may require protection during colder months, Scottish gardens with milder microclimates can support these fruit-bearing trees, ensuring a fresh supply of vibrant citrus for gin experimentation.
Coriander
Coriander seeds (Coriandrum sativum) offer a subtle yet distinctive flavour profile to gin. With hints of citrus and spice, these aromatic seeds complement other botanicals harmoniously. Scottish gardens can easily accommodate coriander, which thrives in temperate climates. The plant produces foliage that can be used as an herb in culinary endeavours, further enhancing its value in garden-to-glass gin creations.
Angelica Root
Angelica root (Angelica archangelica) lends a complex and earthy flavour to gin recipes. Its aromatic properties and bittersweet undertones make it an ideal choice for gin enthusiasts seeking depth and character. This hardy herbaceous plant can be grown in Scottish gardens, adding a touch of intrigue to your gin-making endeavours.
Scottish Heather
Embracing the essence of Scotland's heather-covered landscapes, Calluna vulgaris, or Scottish heather, imparts a subtle floral note and a touch of wild beauty to gin creations. The resilient nature of this iconic plant allows it to thrive in various Scottish garden settings, creating a botanical tapestry and imparting a sense of place to your homemade gin.
With the rich botanical tapestry Scotland offers, cultivating a garden of gin-infused delights becomes an inviting and rewarding endeavour. By nurturing juniper berries, citrus fruits, coriander, angelica root, and Scottish heather, you'll have a diverse array of homegrown botanicals at your fingertips to experiment and craft unique gins. Embrace the spirit of Scotland, indulge in botanical abundance, and embark on a flavourful journey that encapsulates the essence of your Scottish garden in every sip.
References:
Gin Botanicals: A Comprehensive List. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://theginisin.com/botanicals/
How to Grow Your Own Gin Garnish. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/grow-your-own/drinks-and-cocktails/gin-garnish
Hunter, T. (2020). The Plants Behind the Flavours in Scottish Gin. Retrieved from https://www.scottishfield.co.uk/food-and-drink-2/whisky-and-spirits/the-plants-behind-the-flavours-in-scottish-gin/
The Best Botanicals for a Home Gin Garden. (2020). Retrieved from https://blog.thompson-morgan.com/the-best-botanicals-for-a-home-gin-garden/
Hare, G. (2019). The Scottish Gin Botanicals You Can Grow in Your Own Garden. Retrieved from https://foodanddrink.scotsman.com/drink/the-scottish-gin-botanicals-you-can-grow-in-your-own-garden/
Grow Your Own Gin Garnish. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.dobbies.com/ideas-advice/grow-your-own/grow-your-own-gin-garnish/
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