The Botanist Distiller’s Strength
The Botanist Distiller’s Strength is a high-proof expression of the acclaimed Islay Dry Gin from Bruichladdich Distillery. Crafted with 22 hand-foraged wild Islay botanicals, this edition is bottled at 50 % ABV (100 proof) to enhance aromatic intensity and botanical oils. It’s designed for both spirit-forward cocktails and richer aromatic enjoyment, reflecting a fresh take on classic Scottish gin character with bold herbal profile and citrus brightness.
The Botanist Distiller’s Strength
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | The Botanist Distiller’s Strength |
| Brand | The Botanist |
| Company | Bruichladdich Distillery (Rémy Cointreau ownership) |
| Category | Gin (Islay Dry Gin) |
| Country | Scotland |
| Region | Islay |
| Distillery | Bruichladdich Distillery |
| Age | Non-vintage |
| Style | Distiller’s Strength / High Proof Gin |
| Alcohol | 50 % ABV (100 proof) |
| Botanicals | 22 wild, hand-foraged Islay botanicals |
| Availability | Limited / specialty markets |
Prices: Prices can vary significantly due to taxes, import duties, retailer markups, and currency fluctuations
| Country/Region | Price (70/75 cl) |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | £37 – £40 GBP typical retail |
| Europe (EU) | €40 – €45 EUR approximate |
| United States | $43 – $50 USD typical retail |
| Other Regions | Varies widely depending on availability and import fees |
Testing notes
| Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Crystal clear, with a bright sheen |
| Aroma | Fresh juniper with herbal notes and citrus zest |
| Flavours | Bold juniper, bright citrus, meadow herbs, warming spice |
| Texture | Medium-to-rich body with velvety viscosity |
| Finish | Long and herbaceous with lingering herbal-citrus balance |
Experts’ View
Distillers and cocktail professionals often view Distiller’s Strength as an exciting expression for bartenders and enthusiasts alike. By increasing the proof to 50 % ABV, the extraction of botanical oils becomes more pronounced, giving the gin intense herbal freshness and spice that can stand up to complex cocktails like a Negroni or Martini without being overshadowed. This version is also praised for a richer mouthfeel and more robust botanical footprint compared to the standard expression, yet it stays true to Islay’s aromatic heritage.
FAQs
1. How does Distiller’s Strength differ from the regular Botanist Gin?
Distiller’s Strength is bottled at 50 % ABV instead of the standard strength, enhancing the botanical intensity and aromatic presence while retaining the same core recipe of 22 hand-foraged botanicals.
2. What’s the flavour profile like?
This gin opens with fresh juniper and citrus, followed by layers of herbal complexity, meadow botanicals and gentle spice. The finish is long and herbaceous, making it suitable for both sipping and cocktails.
3. Best ways to enjoy Distiller’s Strength?
I suggest trying it in spirit-forward serves like a Gin & Tonic, Negroni, or Martini where its bold character holds up well. Its higher proof also works neat with a citrus twist for aromatics.
