The 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition has highlighted an impressive range of barrel-aged gins, a category that uniquely bridges the worlds of gin and whiskey. Barrel-aged gin, also known as “rested” or “cask-aged” gin, spends time maturing in barrels, which imparts additional complexity, depth, and flavor. This aging process can add notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, transforming the bright botanicals of traditional gin into a richer, more robust spirit. Here are the standout finalists vying for the prestigious Best in Class title:
Crazy Eights Gold Oak Gin
Crazy Eights Gold Oak Gin is a remarkable creation from Hai Seas Distillery, inspired by the infamous Crazy 88s from Kill Bill and the lucky number eight in Chinese culture. This gin combines eight international botanicals with unique flavors of juniper, citrus, caramel, and black cardamom. It is aged in the world’s first whiskey barrels made from French, American, and Chinese oak (San Oaks Whiskey’s Three Body Barrel). The result is a complex and lively gin with notes of orange, oak, cinnamon, and a bright, fruity finish.
Nozawa Onsen Distillery Barrel-Aged Gin
Nozawa Onsen Distillery Barrel-Aged Gin from Nagano, Japan, is known for its aromatic profile. This gin brings a delicate balance of botanicals enhanced by the aging process, which adds depth and a subtle complexity. The result is an aromatic gin that captivates with its refined and nuanced flavors, perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated spirit.
Corsair Distillery Barreled Gin
Corsair Distillery’s Barreled Gin offers a rich blend of juniper, citrus, and spice notes, enhanced by aging in charred oak barrels. This process imparts a distinctive smoky, whiskey-like character, making it a favorite among gin and whiskey enthusiasts alike. The combination of traditional gin botanicals with the depth of barrel aging creates a gin that is both familiar and intriguingly complex.
Seabourne Distillery Barrel Aged Series – Pedro Ximenez Cask
Seabourne Distillery’s Barrel Aged Series features a gin aged in Pedro Ximenez casks, which adds a unique twist to its flavor profile. The aging process imparts notes of black pepper and a balanced sweetness, creating a gin that is both bold and harmonious.
Starlight Distillery Simon’s 1794 Bottled-In-Bond American Dry Gin
Starlight Distillery’s Simon’s 1794 Bottled-In-Bond American Dry Gin is a vibrant expression of juniper, citrus, and herbal notes. The bottled-in-bond designation ensures a high standard of quality and authenticity. This gin’s barrel aging adds layers of complexity and a rich, nuanced character that elevates its traditional botanical profile.
These outstanding barrel-aged gin finalists represent the pinnacle of excellence in their category. Stay tuned to find out which exceptional gin will be crowned Best in Class, setting a new standard for gin lovers.