Cross Keys Botanical Small Batch Gin / 41% / 0.7l
- Cross Keys gin, the first Latvian premium gin, was introduced in 2018. The brand takes its name from crossed keys – an ancient symbol of urban hospitality and part of Riga’s heraldry.
Product description
Cross Keys, Latvia’s first premium gin, debuted in 2018. Its name, a pair of crossed keys, is an ancient symbol of hospitality, still part of the Riga coat of arms.
The brand belongs to the Amber Beverage Group based in Luxembourg, and is produced in Riga by the oldest and largest producer of alcoholic beverages, Latvijas Balzmas (the company's roots date back to the late 18th century, and it has been using its current name since 1970). The key ingredients of Cross Keys gin are juniper berries, rosemary, chamomile and linden flowers, as well as local herbs, which the producer does not disclose. The gin is inspired by the traditional Riga Black Balsam, probably the oldest Bitter in the world, whose formula containing 24 natural botanicals was developed by pharmacist Abraham Kunze in 1752. Cross Keys Gin is distilled in small batches and presented in stoneware bottles.
Cross Keys Botanical is a gin with a unique aromatic and flavor palette, in which the main role is played by the four ingredients mentioned above:
Juniper, a mandatory component of gin, gives it a natural, forest character;
Chamomile, known for centuries for its healing properties, brings a delicate and soothing bitterness;
Linden blossom gives the drink characteristic honey-sweet, warming tones;
Rosemary balances the other elements, emphasizing the subdued herbal notes.
In our opinion, this gin tastes best with a light tonic and a slice of lime or in a classic Martini.