First Impressions
BIRDS is a German gin with a genuinely global concept: one or two signature botanicals from each of the five continents. Juniper and basil from Europe, jungle pepper and baobab from Africa, angelica root and red pepper from America, cherry blossom and ginger from Asia, eucalyptus from Australia. It is a world tour distilled into a single bottle, and the remarkable thing is that it works — the botanicals from different hemispheres finding harmony rather than conflict.
Tasting
The nose is peppery juniper with waxy citrus peels and subtle resinous oak. On the palate, wave after wave of orange and lime notes with pine in the background, floral vanilla, red pepper spiciness, and a touch of clove. Basil adds a fresh herbal Italian quality, and eucalyptus provides a cooling counterpoint. The finish is peppery with floral vanilla and eucalyptus freshness lingering.
The Bottom Line
BIRDS earns a 7 — a gin where the global sourcing concept translates into genuine flavour complexity. The African jungle pepper and baobab provide a dimension unavailable to European-only botanical bills, and the cherry blossom adds a delicate Asian floral note. Best in a G&T with a basil leaf garnish where the herb's freshness amplifies beautifully. At £35, a well-priced world tour.
