Produced in New York City, Brooklyn Gin is part of the early wave of American craft gins, developed with a deliberate focus on freshness and manual production techniques. Founded in 2010 by Joe Santos and Emil Jattne, the brand set out to differentiate itself from traditional London dry styles by emphasising bright citrus and hands-on preparation. A defining aspect of production is the use of fresh citrus rather than dried peel. Citrus fruits such as lemon, lime, and other varieties are hand-cut prior to distillation, releasing essential oils directly into the spirit. Juniper berries are also crushed by hand, increasing surface area and enhancing extraction. This labour-intensive approach is unusual at scale and contributes to the gin’s more vivid aromatic profile.
The base spirit is typically derived from grain, often corn, chosen for its relatively soft and neutral character. Distillation takes place in small copper pot stills, with batch sizes kept deliberately low, often yielding only a few hundred bottles per run. The process is slow, with maceration and distillation extending over multiple days to ensure controlled extraction and integration of botanicals. The botanical recipe includes around eleven components, combining traditional and more modern elements. Juniper forms the structural core, supported by coriander seed, angelica, and citrus. Additional botanicals such as lavender and cocoa nibs introduce subtle aromatic complexity, though the overall profile remains firmly citrus-led.
Unlike many gins that rely on dried botanicals for consistency, the use of fresh ingredients introduces greater variability, requiring careful control during production. This positions the gin closer to a craft or small-batch philosophy, where process and ingredient handling play a central role in defining character. The overall style is often described as a "New American" gin, with reduced emphasis on heavy juniper and a stronger focus on citrus brightness and freshness.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Bright and citrus-forward, with fresh lemon and lime oils immediately apparent. Juniper is present but softer, with light floral and herbal undertones.
Palate:
Clean and vibrant, with citrus at the forefront. Juniper provides structure, while coriander and subtle floral notes add complexity. The texture is smooth with a slightly fresh, almost zesty quality.
Finish:
Medium in length, with lingering citrus peel and a gentle dryness. Juniper and light spice reappear at the end, giving a clean and balanced finish.
