No need to ‘excuse your French’ with these gins. They’re that good!
France is well-known for its exquisite wines, which explains why their gins are just as sophisticated. Many of them take on the fastidiousness that is expected in French winemaking, with many gin distillers sharing ties with the French wine industry.
Of course, the first cardinal rule of gin making is showcasing the juniper berry — and French gin is no exception! But juniper berry is never the only ingredient. Across the world, gin distillers blend in their own unique flavours, bringing forth the story of their place and history. And you can expect this with gin from France.
To prove their worth as delectable gin makers, here are the seven best French gins to add to your home bar this spring 2021.
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Citadelle Gin
Synonymous with citrus and a fresh sea breeze, Citadelle Gin is the artisanal French spirit set to stir up the discerning Australian consumer. The humble juniper berry – grown and cultivated on the Southern French estate, where the Citadelle journey first began – is the conductor of flavour, blended harmoniously with 19 botanicals. To name a few, Citadelle Gin includes the likes of coriander, cumin, nutmeg, liquorice, blackcurrant, and orange zest. Fragrant, delicate and demanding attention, this distinguished drop should be next on your list of premium gins to purchase.
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La Plancheliere Gin
Usually gin is best served with a mixer like tonic or soda, but the French La Plancheliere Gin is so elegant that it is best served on ice. This is thanks to its smooth body and tender flavours. It is pretty in pink too, with notes of juniper berries and a subtle blend of herbs and zesty notes of citrus and strawberry. It is nicely balanced with a delightfully complex palate that features strawberry flavours on the finish. Serve with a fruity dessert, si vou plait.
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Ergaster Herboriste Gin
The Ergaster Herboriste Gin is warm and pure, offering spicy notes of cumin and coriander that complement the bursting blood orange flavours. Its bold profile and complex aromas make it an ideal candidate for uniquely French cocktails, preferably a French 75 featuring Moët & Chandon, lemon juice and sugar. You’ll feel like royalty! In a simple mix of tonic or soda (or just by itself), this French gin matches nicely with citrusy sweet desserts. Orange and honey, darling?
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Mirabeau Dry Rosé Gin
Claiming awards from many corners of the globe, the Mirabeau Dry Rosé Gin is quintessentially dry and perfectly French. It encapsulates the true London Dry style, featuring 12 citrus, floral and herbal botanicals found throughout Provence – either wild or cultivated. And in keeping with Mirabeau’s heritage as a winemaking estate, they add 10% of their Provence Rosé to the final macerate before distillation. The grape flavours add a round softness of this unmistakably French gin.
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G'Vine Floraison Gin
Out of all the French gins in this list, this one is by far the most spring-worthy. The G’vine Floraison Gin is the product of floral excellence, created by master distiller Jean-Sébastien Robicquet. It is produced using grapes and vine flower blossoms from Maison Villevert, Robicquet’s 16th century family home in France’s renowned Cognac region. With a 40% ABV and a garden of aromas including juniper, this florally French gin will freshen up your spring afternoon.
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FAIR. Spirits Juniper Gin
There’s one thing that tastes better than flowers, citrus and spice, and that’s an all-natural distilling process that is environmentally friendly. FAIR. Spirits Juniper Gin gladly offers this beautiful taste. FAIR is a French spirits company that launched in 2009 where all their spirits are vegan-friendly, organic, gluten-free, non-GMO and feature no carbohydrates. Their Juniper Gin blossoms with aromas of citrus, cardamom, coriander and peppery grains. Matched with an Indian curry, and you’ve got a night to remember.
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La Grappe de Montpellier Gin
Where tradition meets excellence. La Grappe de Montpellier resides alongside the Mediterranean coast on a 1000-year-old vineyard in the south of France. And since 1923, they’ve been mastering the art of French gin. With an ABV of 40%, their gin is distilled five times to create an ultra pure spirit before infusing with juniper berries and native Mediterranean botanicals. Think bitter almond, lemon zest, coriander, lavender and grape. Best served as a classic gin and tonic, matched with cheese or seafood. Bon appétit!
Citadelle Gin Tasting Ritual:
Spice up your next gin tasting at home with friends and family with this cool ritual thanks to Citadelle Gin. It’s not officially French, but it could very well be!
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Ingredients:
1.5 shots of Citadelle Gin
1.5 shots of Martini Bianco Vermouth
Ice
Lemon wedge
1 Oyster
Method:
1. Mix your gin and vermouth with ice in a tumbler and stir. Swallow your oyster.
2. Save the shell and pour in the martini mix — minus the ice — then lightly squeeze a lemon on your cocktail to add some acidic flavour.
3. Then drink as a shot. Cheers!
Looking for something homegrown? Be sure to try these 7 Best Australian Gins in 2021. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll also love this Boozy Gin and Tonic Chocolate Truffles Recipe.
