First Impressions
IQ Gin is made at The Black Bottle Distillery in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, using an unusual base: fermented malted barley rather than standard neutral grain spirit. This choice — more common in whisky production — adds a distinctive malty richness to the gin. Lavender, clove, and vanilla join triple citrus (orange, lemon, lime) and juniper.
Tasting
Seven botanicals on a malted barley base. The nose is floral lavender with juniper, citrus, and percolating clove. On the palate at 41%, fruity and floral with the barley's malty richness, lavender, triple citrus brightness, vanilla smoothness. The finish is lingering and spiced.
The Bottom Line
IQ Oxford earns a 7 — the malted barley base is the distinguishing feature, adding body and malty character that neutral-spirit gins simply cannot achieve. The botanical choices are well-judged for this heavier base. At £21, remarkable value for an Oxfordshire gin with genuine individuality.
