A clear gin can become slightly hazy when ice or tonic is added. In an unfiltered gin, this is a natural effect caused in part by the essential oils retained after distillation.
What happens in the glass?
Citrus peel and certain botanicals contain aromatic oils. They remain dispersed in sufficiently strong alcohol. When the gin is chilled or diluted with tonic, they become less soluble: tiny droplets appear and give the drink an opalescent look. This effect is sometimes called “louching”.
Why not filter it further?
More intensive filtration can keep a spirit perfectly clear at low temperatures, but it also removes some aromatic oils. For selected editions, Plus Oultre Distillery chooses to retain them in order to preserve the intended profile. The expected light haze when chilled is therefore not, by itself, a sign that the gin has spoiled.
Which editions are concerned?
- Gin Agrumes – Unfiltered Citrus Gin, 50 cl at 47.4% ABV, with lemon, orange and juniper notes.
- Gin Lemon Edition – Sicilian Lemon, 50 cl at 40% ABV.
- Gin Cacao Orange, 50 cl at 38.5% ABV, made with roasted cacao and orange peel.
How should you serve it?
Serve it simply with large ice cubes and a tonic suited to the gin’s profile. Pour the tonic gently: the haze may develop gradually, with no need to shake or filter the drink.
Discover all Gin de Binche editions
Please enjoy responsibly.
