Fresh Orange

Fresh orange is a vibrant and versatile botanical that enhances gin with its bright citrus notes and natural sweetness. Unlike dried orange peel, which offers a more concentrated, slightly bitter flavour, fresh orange imparts a juicier, more aromatic quality, making it a popular choice for contemporary gin distillers.

The essential oils in fresh orange zest contribute a fragrant, zesty character, while the juice brings a subtle acidity that balances juniper and other botanicals. When used in distillation, fresh orange can complement both traditional London Dry styles and more experimental gins. It pairs exceptionally well with spices like coriander, cinnamon, and star anise, as well as floral elements such as lavender and chamomile.

One of the challenges of using fresh orange in gin production is its high water content, which can dilute the spirit. To overcome this, distillers often use fresh zest or whole oranges in vapour infusion methods, capturing the fruit’s essential oils without excessive moisture. Some producers also experiment with vacuum distillation to preserve the delicate citrus aroma.

In cocktails, fresh orange-infused gin works beautifully in a Negroni, where its natural sweetness balances the bitterness of Campari. It also shines in a classic gin and tonic, adding a refreshing, citrus-forward dimension. As consumers increasingly seek bright, natural flavours in their spirits, fresh orange continues to be a sought-after botanical, bringing a lively and sophisticated twist to modern gin-making.