The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

London Dry Gin | 46% ABV | 92 Proof | 750mL | Islay, Scotland | 22 Hand-Foraged Islay Botanicals

Process & Profile

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin brings the wild botanicals of Scotland’s Isle of Islay into a classic juniper-led spirit. Produced at Bruichladdich Distillery, it combines nine traditional gin botanicals with 22 botanicals hand-foraged on the island. These local ingredients include apple mint, heather, chamomile, lemon balm and wild thyme.

Production takes place in a modified still affectionately named Ugly Betty. The nine core botanicals are macerated in the still, while the wild Islay botanicals infuse the rising vapors during a slow simmer distillation. The process takes approximately 17 hours, drawing together the different botanical elements.

Bottled at 46% ABV, The Botanist balances citrus brightness, fresh herbs and floral notes with a rounded, silky texture. Juniper remains central, giving the more delicate flavors a familiar foundation whether served simply with tonic or stirred into a Martini.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Juniper and sweet citrus alongside mint, thyme, chamomile and fresh herbal aromas.

• Palate: Rounded and mellow, with bright citrus, earthy undertones and layered floral and herbal flavors. A cool opening develops gentle warmth.

• Finish: Soft and balanced, with lingering botanical character and a silky texture.

What Makes It Special

• 22 locally foraged botanicals: Wild plants gathered on Islay contribute the gin’s distinctive herbal and floral character.

• Nine classic gin botanicals: A traditional foundation supports the island ingredients.

• Slow simmer distillation: Approximately 17 hours in Ugly Betty allows the botanical flavors to develop together.

• Bruichladdich provenance: Distilled on Islay at the distillery also known for its Scotch whiskies.

• 92-proof strength: Delivers body and aromatic presence in mixed drinks.

• Versatile cocktail profile: Juniper, citrus and herbs suit everything from a refreshing Gin & Tonic to a spirit-forward Martini.

How to Enjoy

For a Gin & Tonic, pour 2 ounces over plenty of ice, top with quality tonic water and garnish with grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary. Keep the garnish restrained so the gin’s own botanicals remain easy to appreciate.

For a Dry Martini, stir 2½ ounces with ½ ounce of dry vermouth over ice, then strain into a chilled glass. Finish with a lemon twist for citrus brightness or olives for a savory accent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does “Islay Dry” mean in The Botanist Islay Dry Gin?
   The Botanist is made in the London Dry style. “Islay Dry” highlights its Scottish island origin and the locally foraged botanicals used in its production; London Dry describes a style rather than requiring production in London.

2. How many botanicals are in The Botanist Islay Dry Gin?
   The recipe combines nine classic gin botanicals with 22 hand-foraged Islay botanicals, for 31 in total. The island selection includes heather, apple mint, chamomile, lemon balm and wild thyme.

3. Is The Botanist Islay Dry Gin gluten-free?
   Yes. The producer confirms that The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is gluten-free.

4. What tonic and garnish go well with The Botanist Islay Dry Gin?
   A quality Indian tonic complements its juniper and citrus profile. The producer recommends rosemary and grapefruit as a garnish combination.

5. Where can I buy The Botanist Islay Dry Gin?
   Shop The Botanist Islay Dry Gin at The Barrel Tap.