Isle of Raasay Distillery Hebridean Gin (46%)

With the distinction of being the first legal spirit ever produced on the Isle of Raasay, this classic dry gin cannot but evoke an image of illicit island distilling from years gone by. The eponymous distillery was founded in 2014 by Bill Dobbie and Alasdair Day, and this, their inaugural release, really typifies the island’s character. It’s infused with locally foraged juniper and blended with water sourced from the distillery’s well. 

The spirit is presented in a bottle moulded on a selection of particularly beautiful, locally discovered fossils — encapsulating in form as in taste the island’s unique geology. The aroma is bright and brimming with juniper and citrus, whilst the palate mellows towards notes of orange, liquorice, and hints of pepper. 

This is best paired with a classic tonic, orange peel, and memories that will stay with you long after the bottle is finished.

Iain Glover, Spirits Specialist, Berry Bros. & Rudd (November 2023)