Barr Hill Gin

Barr Hill Gin is an ode to the hardworking bees of the Northeast. The juniper-forward botanicals are brought to a perfect balance by the floral depth of the raw honey. The results are distinctive and unparalleled.

Barr Hill Gin is distilled once in a custom-built botanical extraction still with hand-crushed, organic juniper, and then finished with raw honey from the region. The raw honey contributes botanical depth from the countless wildflowers foraged by the bees.

Barr Hill Gin: A Celebration of Nature and Craftsmanship

Barr Hill Gin is a remarkable spirit that embodies the essence of Vermont’s natural beauty and the dedication of Caledonia Spirits’ master distillers. Known for its unique infusion of raw honey, Barr Hill Gin stands out in the world of gin for its smooth, slightly sweet profile and commitment to natural ingredients. This gin captures the spirit of Vermont’s lush landscapes and the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.

The Origins of Barr Hill Gin

Caledonia Spirits, located in the heart of Vermont, was founded by beekeeper and distiller Todd Hardie. Hardie’s deep respect for nature and his background in beekeeping inspired him to create a gin that highlights the purity and richness of raw honey. The distillery is situated near Barr Hill, a picturesque area known for its rolling hills and thriving bee colonies, which serve as the inspiration for the gin’s name and its signature ingredient.

The Distillation Process

The creation of Barr Hill Gin begins with a base of high-quality neutral grain spirit. The botanicals, including juniper berries and other traditional gin ingredients, are carefully selected to ensure a balanced flavor profile. The gin is distilled in small batches using a custom-built pot still, which allows for precise control over the distillation process and ensures that the delicate flavors of the botanicals are preserved.

What truly sets this gin apart is the addition of raw honey, which is incorporated post-distillation. This raw honey, sourced from local Vermont apiaries, is never heated or processed, retaining its natural enzymes and floral notes. The honey adds a subtle sweetness and a unique complexity to the gin, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Tasting Notes: A Natural Elegance

Barr Hill Gin is celebrated for its smooth and slightly sweet character, with a flavor profile that reflects the purity of its ingredients. Here are the detailed tasting notes:

• Appearance: Crystal clear, with a bright and inviting look.
• Nose: Aromas of fresh juniper, accompanied by delicate floral and citrus notes, with a hint of sweetness from the raw honey.
• Palate: Smooth and well-balanced, with the juniper providing a classic gin backbone. The raw honey adds a subtle sweetness and a rich, creamy texture, while the citrus and floral botanicals enhance the complexity.
• Finish: Clean and lingering, with a gentle warmth and a touch of honeyed sweetness.

Versatility in Cocktails

Barr Hill Gin’s unique flavor profile makes it a versatile choice for a variety of cocktails. Its smoothness and subtle sweetness enhance both classic and innovative drinks. Here are a few cocktail recipes to highlight its versatility:

1. Barr Hill Bee’s Knees:
   • 2 parts Barr Hill
   • 3/4 part fresh lemon juice
   • 3/4 part honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey and water)
   • Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
2. Barr Hill Negroni:
   • 1 part Barr Hill
   • 1 part Campari
   • 1 part sweet vermouth
   • Stir with ice and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
3. Barr Hill Tom Collins:
   • 2 parts Barr Hill
   • 1 part fresh lemon juice
   • 1/2 part simple syrup
   • Top with soda water
   • Shake the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice and strain into a highball glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a lemon wheel.
4. Vermont Mule:
   • 2 parts Barr Hill
   • 1/2 part fresh lime juice
   • Top with ginger beer
   • Serve over ice in a copper mug. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.

Culinary Pairings

The natural sweetness and botanical complexity of this gin make it an excellent partner for various culinary dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Cheese: Pair with creamy and tangy cheeses, such as goat cheese or brie, to complement the gin’s floral and honey notes.
• Seafood: Enhance dishes like seared scallops, grilled shrimp, or smoked salmon with the gin’s smooth and slightly sweet profile.
• Desserts: Complement desserts featuring honey or citrus, such as lemon tarts, honey cakes, or panna cotta, with a splash of Barr Hill Gin.

Conclusion: A Tribute to Vermont’s Natural Beauty

This is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of Caledonia Spirits. By incorporating raw honey and carefully selected botanicals, this gin offers a unique and refined drinking experience that captures the essence of Vermont’s natural landscapes. Whether enjoyed neat, in a sophisticated cocktail, or paired with gourmet cuisine, Barr Hill brings a touch of natural elegance and purity to any occasion.

Note: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects.  For more information go to: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol

Drink Delightful Encourages you to please drink responsibly.