OPIHR - Oriental Spiced London Dry Gin - 42.50%
OPIHR Oriental Spiced London Dry Gin is an immediately recognizable blend in the world of premium gins. Inspired by the ancient spice route, it evokes imagery of travel, distant trade, and botanicals from the Orient. The brand belongs to the Quintessential Brands universe and was created by Joanne Moore, a major figure in British distillation. Its production follows the tradition of London Dry Gin, with flavoring done during distillation and a clear expression of botanicals. OPIHR stands out with a deliberately spicy style, warmer and more exotic than a classic gin focused solely on juniper. This 42.5% version offers an interesting aromatic intensity while maintaining fine precision. It is a gin with character, ideal for lovers of aromatic, dry, and spicy spirits.
The recipe of OPIHR Oriental Spiced highlights a selection of botanicals inspired by the great spice trading posts. It notably includes cubeb from Indonesia, Tellicherry black pepper from India, cardamom from Tanzania, and coriander from Morocco. These ingredients give the gin a very distinctive signature, between peppery warmth, lemony freshness, resinous notes, and earthy depth. Juniper remains present, as required by the gin's identity, but it blends into a broader range dominated by oriental spices. Cardamom adds a fragrant and almost camphoraceous dimension, while the pepper structures the finish with a dry and persistent sensation. Cubeb reinforces this aromatic impression that is both spicy, fresh, and slightly balsamic. The whole results in an expressive gin, designed as much for tasting as for mixology.
In the glass, OPIHR Oriental Spiced London Dry Gin reveals an intense nose marked by coriander, pepper, cardamom, citrus, and a touch of juniper. The palate is dry, lively, and very aromatic, with a fresh attack followed by a gradual rise of spices. The profile remains balanced, without sugary heaviness, with good tension and a long, peppery, and slightly lemony finish. This gin works particularly well in a Gin and Tonic, with a neutral or lightly sweet tonic to let the spices express themselves. A garnish of orange, grapefruit, or fresh ginger will highlight its oriental character without overpowering it. It can also be used in spicier cocktails, such as a spicy Negroni, a Gin Mule, or a Martini twisted around citrus. It is an original, accessible, and very identifiable blend, perfect for bringing a spicy signature to a gin selection.
Main botanicals: juniper, cubeb from Indonesia, cardamom from Tanzania, Tellicherry black pepper from India, coriander from Morocco, citrus, and spices
