Opihr

Opihr Gin, G&J Distillers – 40%ABV

Botanicals: juniper, peppercorn, cubeb, cumin, coriander, curry leaf, turmeric, fenugreek

Flavour profile: spicy

Garnish: orange

And now for something completely different…Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin; pronounced O-peer it is named after a legendary region situated on the old spice route from the times of King Solomon, and despite the exotic name is a London gin.

On the nose there are smooth notes of cumin, coriander, peppercorns, citrus  and a hint of takeaway curry. It’s a heady mix, and might not sound it but is seductive and evocative.

Neat, it is juniper light and soft. Citrus and spice with a hint of curry leaves. The finish is long and warm with spice and cracked black peppercorns to the fore. 

Opihr works with a carefully crafted Negroni, but no amount of crafting will make a satisfactory martini. It’s star shines brightest in a G&T where it is transformed. Garnish with whole red chilli, dried lemon, coriander leaf and pair it with Peter Spanton’s Lemongrass tonic. This concoction will transport you on an aromatic scent of fragrant spice to the sub-continent (I know, I know, but it has that effect on you!) 
One or two would be my limit but it is truly different, special and makes an elegant aperitif. 

Opihr is, in all honesty, barely a gin but that’s not a criticism. It’s a great spirit and a  good way of converting those who profess not to like gin; no such thing in my opinion, they just haven’t been persuaded yet. Pour them one of these and it will turn their heads for good.