Review: West End Gin

West End Gin hails from, of all places, Louisville, Kentucky, which is considerably better known for a different kind of spirit. Locally crafted by “entrepreneurial power couple” Dr. Dawn and Stacey Wade, the gin is made from 14 botanicals, including juniper, orange peel, coriander, and cardamom, and is described as citrus-forward and “a delightful dance between classic London Dry and contemporary styles.”

Two expressions are offered, the original reviewed here and the Rose Ann Edition, which is more floral, with added rosebud petals and fenugreek.

Let’s give it a try.

West End Gin Review

I’d say the description of this gin as straddling more modern and classic gin styles is pretty spot on: The nose is crisp with both juniper and layers of citrus, not just orange but also grapefruit and Meyer lemon. The earthy underbelly evokes cardamom but also some duskier anise notes — followed late in the game by a curry powder character.

The palate is sharp, citrusy, and spicy, in equal proportions. That curry note really starts to grab hold, pairing with emerging notes of lemongrass and lime leaf directing the gin into a distinctly Eastern character. More anise arrives late in the game, sharpening up with notes of black pepper, saffron, and menthol. It’s altogether complex and enigmatic but easy to like — and quite versatile in both short and tall drinks.

88 proof.

A- / $40

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