Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an aromatic herb from the mint family, prized for its fresh, citrusy scent and delicate herbal notes. As a gin botanical, it brings a nuanced complexity that enhances both traditional and contemporary gin profiles.

With its bright lemon-like fragrance, lemon balm offers a softer, more herbal citrus character compared to stronger botanicals like lemon peel or lemongrass. It introduces a gentle sweetness and a hint of mint, making it an excellent complement to juniper, coriander, and floral elements like chamomile or lavender. This versatility allows it to be used in both classic London Dry-style gins and modern botanical-forward variations.

Lemon balm’s essential oils are best extracted through careful distillation, as excessive heat can diminish its delicate flavours. When used in gin production, it often pairs well with citrus peels, fennel, and even peppery or spicy botanicals, creating a balanced and refreshing spirit. Its mild herbal undertones also make it ideal for gins intended for summer cocktails, as it brings a light and uplifting quality to drinks like the gin and tonic or the Tom Collins.

Beyond its flavour contributions, lemon balm has long been valued for its calming properties in herbal medicine. Its inclusion in gin not only enhances the spirit’s aroma and taste but also subtly nods to its historical use in relaxation and well-being.

Whether used as a primary botanical or a subtle background note, lemon balm adds depth and freshness, making it a valuable ingredient in gin distillation.