Willem Barentsz Handcrafted Gin Take Over At Oriole Bar
Last week we visited Oriole bar to learn more about the Barentsz Gin and sample some of the new cocktails available. We were even able to meet founder Michael Claessens.
The origins of Gin stem from rich Anglo-Dutch history, and Barentsz Gin takes its name from the fearless Dutch explorer, Captain Willem Barentsz, who gave name to the Barents Sea. Willem’s intrepid travels showed his tenacity and appetite for life, and are what inspired the bold characteristics we can see in Barentsz Gin today.
With the choice of two different bottles, one being the signature Barentsz Handcrafted Gin in a bespoke marine coloured bottle embossed with the brand crest. What sets Barentsz apart from the rest, is that it is distilled from two grains: rye and wheat. The creamy characteristics from the rye really shines through, and pairs beautifully with the wheat which gives complexity that allows the sweet notes of the Jasmine flowers to come through. The remaining botanicals are a classic blend of juniper, orange peel, coriander seeds, almonds, liquorice, angelica root, cassia bark and orris root.
The combination of these two grains creates a very smooth finish, which makes the gin very easy to sip neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail!
For those who fancy something more aromatic, try the Handcrafted Gin infused with mandarin and Jasmine, which has a very delicate hint of natural mandarin. Most people turn their nose away at citrus infused liquors, as it is easy to find yourself pouring a drink that smells like air freshener. However, as Barentsz Gin is subtly infused with natural mandarin, as opposed to being permeated with essential oils, the true mandarin flavour really stand out with out being overpowering, and create a wonderful marriage with the exotic floral notes of the Jasmine flower.
During the course of our evening we tried a number of Barentsz gin cocktails with our favourite definitely being the martini! Mine I prefer extra dirty for sure!
Check out the gin and the cocktails at Oriole Bar while you can.
Website: https://www.oriolebar.com
Address: E Poultry Ave, Farringdon, London EC1A 9LH
Written by Kellie Erm
photos by Tegan LeBon
