First Impressions
Beernaert Original Pure Gin from Belgium makes its priorities clear before you even open the bottle: whole juniper berries sit inside, a visual statement of intent that also serves a practical purpose — continuing to infuse and intensify the juniper character over time. Belgium has a deep distilling heritage, and Beernaert honours that tradition with a classically styled, juniper-forward gin that does not chase trends.
Tasting
Cardamom, coriander, citrus peel, angelica, and — above all — juniper. The nose is full-bodied: juniper dominating with cardamom spice. On the palate at 43%, an explosion of flavours: bold juniper leads with cardamom and coriander spice providing depth, citrus adding brightness. The whole berries in the bottle infuse continuously, ensuring maximum juniper intensity that develops and deepens the longer the bottle sits. The finish is clean, spice-accented, and persistently juniper.
The Bottom Line
Beernaert earns a 7 — a Belgian gin for juniper purists. The berries-in-bottle technique is clever: this is a gin that improves and intensifies over time, rewarding patience. Fresh, classically styled, and wonderful in a G&T with a good whack of orange and a premium tonic. At £35, honest Belgian craft gin that does not pretend to be anything other than what it is — a celebration of juniper.
