While gazing at a lengthy row of gin bottles, one stood out because the liquid within was the palest of pale yellow. Intrigued, I ordered a martini (with vermouth of course, because as the amazing Alberta Staub says, “Without vernouth it’s just cold alcohol.”). The flavor of the gin was delicious owing to a nicely balanced blend of juniper, citrus peel and then exotic spices, maybe a little nutmeg. It’s very soft and pleasant, with a clean, dry finish and frankly, I’m in love. The color remained a mystery and there was one flavor that I recognized but couldn’t finger. This is what I’ve since discovered:

“Cadenhead’s Old Raj Gin is distinctive in that it contains a measure of saffron, the rare and costly spice derived from the crocus flower. In addition to a slightly spicy flavor, this also imparts a pale yellow color to Old Raj. The addition of the saffron is undertaken personally by the Company Chairman, in order to ensure a consistency in flavor and color each time Old Raj is bottled.”

There you have it. This is a must-try gin. Fair warning, it can be a bit pricey and I wouldn’t use it with mixers - it deserves to be center stage.

Filed Under: Wine & Libations