Makar Gin, the first gin to be distilled in the city of Glasgow, has been making waves since its launch. The name Makar is the ancient Scots word for “poet”, and the liquid is juniper-led and Scottish through and through!
Glasgow Distillery Co. was founded in 2012 by Mike Hayward and Liam Hughes and is the first independent single malt distillery to operate in Glasgow in over 100 years.
Crafted with passion and precision, Makar Glasgow Gin was their first product! Named after the Gaelic word for ‘poet’ or ‘bard,’ Makar Gin is a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Scotland. The gin has won several awards, including a silver medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in 2015 and a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2016. Makar Gin is a must-try for gin enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the world of craft gin.
The Scottish gin is a classic London dry-style gin, with a juniper-led flavor profile that is balanced by a citrusy finish and bottled at 43% ABV. It is a bold gin in small batches using a copper pot affectionately called Annie with small number of botanicals, including juniper, angelica root, rosemary, black peppercorns, cassia bark, lemon peel, and coriander seed.
How does Makar Gin taste
According to Makar Gin, these are the tasting notes you can find on their website! Of course, they are only a guide!
Appearance
Makar Gin has a crystal-clear appearance.
Aroma
Invigorating fresh pine and eucalyptus, floral and herbal rosemary notes with touches of zesty lemon citrus.
Taste
Robust juniper supported by citrus and savoury notes, black pepper spice with hints of liquorice contributing to a fully rounded and balanced mouthfeel.
Finish
Long smooth dry finish, with notes of angelica and lingering warm spices and rosemary.
Varieties of Makar Gin
The Makar Gin range offers varieties that are perfect for gin lovers. Here are just a few of them!
Makar Cherry Gin
Makar Cherry Gin is made by infusing Makar Original Dry Gin with fresh cherries. This gin has a sweet and fruity flavor, with a hint of tartness from the cherries. It is perfect for making cocktails or enjoying on its own.
Makar Old Tom Gin
Makar Old Tom Gin is a barrel-aged gin that is perfect for those who love complex flavors. It is made by aging Makar Original Dry Gin in new European oak casks for 10 weeks. This gin has a rich and complex flavor, with notes of vanilla, oak, and spice. It has a smooth finish and is perfect for sipping on its own or using in cocktails.
Makar Mulberry Aged Gin
This one is the one I really couldn’t wait to try. Having grown up with a mulberry tree in the backyard, the taste of mulberries brings me back to my childhood. They take their Makar Original Dry and matures it for a short time incasks made from mulberry trees. It is a wonder!
Why Lush Life loves it
Perfect for cocktails or to savor and sip on its own, I adore the creativity of Makar Gin and can’t wait to see what they do next!
Where you can buy Makar Gin
UK: You can find Makar Gin at Master of Malt
USA: Not in the USA yet
How is Makar Gin best enjoyed?
Makar Gin is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions on how to best enjoy this juniper-led gin:
Neat
For those who enjoy the full flavor of gin, Makar Gin can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. This allows the bold, piney juniper flavor to stand out in full force, with aromatic rosemary and notes of citrus and black pepper.
Martini
Makar Gin’s bold flavor makes it an ideal choice for a classic Gin Martini.
Gin and Tonic
A classic Gin and Tonic is a refreshing way to enjoy Makar Gin as well! .
Cocktails
Makar Gin can be used in a variety of cocktails. Try it in a Negroni, Tom Collins, or Gin Fizz for a flavorful twist on a classic cocktail and also the Red Snapper!
Frequently Asked Questions
What food pairings go well with Makar Gin?
Makar Gin’s bold and full-flavored profile pairs well with a variety of foods. The gin’s juniper-forward taste works well with citrus and savory flavors. For example, Makar Gin can be paired with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or smoked salmon. The gin’s botanicals also complement dishes with herbs and spices, such as roasted chicken with rosemary or lamb with thyme. Check out their website for me!
Try it in other gin cocktails too!
Here are a few of my favorites:
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