The Botanist reveals cask-matured gin

Rémy Cointreau-owned The Botanist has launched two gins in the US: a cask-aged and a cask-rested expression.

The brand is crafted at Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay, which is home to more than 300 cask types. Head distiller Adam Hannett experimented with different casks, from red wine and Sherry to American whiskey, before settling on the two new expressions, which ‘embody the essence of Islay and the diligence of whisky blending and distillation it is known for’. Hannett said: “The complexity of The Botanist and its unparalleled quality make it a pleasure to experiment with. “We have watched and waited to see how the balance of the liquid and the 22 Islay botanicals can be further enhanced by resting in fine quality European and American oak casks. “This experiment has been decades in the making, and we’re really pleased with the vibrancy and depth of the new liquids.” Seeking to add definition to an emerging category, The Botanist refers to its two new gins as ‘rested’ and ‘aged’, taking inspiration from the reposado and añejo Tequila classifications. The Botanist Islay Cask Rested Gin combines 16 different cask types and has been aged for at least six months, while The Botanist Islay Cask Aged Gin combines six different cask types and has been aged for a minimum of three years. Both expressions have an ABV of 46%. The brand suggests sipping the gins neat like a whisky or Tequila, with a cube of ice and an orange twist, or in classic gin cocktails. Nicolas Beckers, CEO and president of parent company Rémy Cointreau Americas, said: “We are excited to introduce The Botanist Islay Cask Matured Gin Range in the US and expand The Botanist brand in our market. “These exquisite new liquids exemplify the innovative spirit and award-winning craftsmanship of our distillery and we look forward to introducing them to US consumers.” The Botanist Islay Cask Rested Gin retails for US$49.99 for a 750ml bottle and is available in retail and the on-trade, while The Botanist Islay Cask Aged Gin is a highly limited on-trade exclusive. Last month, Rémy Cointreau announced it was expecting a double-digit sales decline for its 2023/2024 financial year, despite growth for The Botanist.