Cruxland Gin

Instantly visually intriguing with its stumpy bottle shape and embossed leather details over the screw cap, Cruxland Gin immediately piqued my interest. This was not a gin I was familiar with, but boasting a Kalahari truffle infusion and a South African heritage, I was certainly curious, and keen to give it a try.

Distilled in small batches in Paarl, South Africa, Cruxland compiles 9 botanicals including rooibos, honeybush, and those Kalahari truffles, to make up its complex flavour palette which was created to reflect its South African origins.
On the nose, the gin certainly delivers, and offers up a striking aroma... coriander, juniper, and a beautiful sweetness from that honeybush. To taste, Cruxland packs a hefty aniseed punch and a hearty spice finish. Paired with tonic, I'd have to say Cruxland starts to drift away from the distinctive 'gin' flavour I personally favour, but is undoubtedly a change of pace from the inherently 'British' classic gins, saturating the spirits market (no complaints from me, but for those seeking something a little different...), and certainly worth trying.
Pair with a premium Indian tonic, a slice of lemon and a few juniper berries to inject a little of the classic tastes back into this spirit whilst complimenting its existing botanicals.  

In partnership with The Paddocks Bar, Blandford Forum