Garnish Island Irish Gin (West Cork) / 46% / 0.7l

West Cork Distillers has been operating since 2003, founded by three friends – John O'Connell and brothers Dennis and Ger McCarthy.

Originally based at Union Hall in County Cork, the business moved to larger premises in Skibbereen (also in County Cork) ten years later. The distillery distills malt and grain whiskeys, as well as blending its own blend, and whiskey makes up around 95% of the company's turnover. The remaining 5% goes to the Garnish Island gin presented here. It is the creation of Deirdre Bohane, Ireland's only female master distiller. She was inspired by childhood trips to Garnish Island and visiting its gardens. The creator does not reveal all the botanicals used in the formula, only stating that their selection "resulted in a classic gin profile enriched with notes of hibiscus, iris and rose, balanced with thyme and rosemary, and completed with dark chocolate and strawberries".

Garnish Island is a strongly floral gin, with a distinct herbal note and a touch of juniper. In the palette, however, herbal tones come to the fore, which definitely temper the floral notes. We recommend serving with a delicate Indian Tonic and a slice of lime.