Gorse Flower
Ginestra, known in English as broom or Gorse Flower, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. Its vibrant yellow blossoms emit a sweet, subtly honeyed fragrance, making it an intriguing botanical in gin production. When used in gin, ginestra imparts delicate floral notes that can enhance the spirit’s aromatic profile.
Incorporating ginestra into gin requires careful consideration due to its potent aroma. Distillers often balance it with traditional botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus peels to achieve a harmonious flavour profile. The goal is to allow ginestra’s floral characteristics to complement rather than overpower the gin’s overall taste.
An example of ginestra’s application is found in Volcano Etna Dry Gin, which combines ginestra with juniper, wild fennel, bitter orange, and hazelnut. This blend creates a gin that reflects the unique terroir of Sicily’s Mount Etna region.
The use of ginestra in gin production showcases the industry’s innovative spirit, as distillers explore regional botanicals to craft distinctive and memorable expressions.