First Impressions
NAUD's distillery sits on its own island in the heart of Cognac country — an ancient grain mill in Pinthiers, still with its original paddle wheel, surrounded by lime and willow trees, bordered by two arms of the River Seugne which flows into the Charente. The gin takes its inspiration from the original recipe of Emile Perrier, who made gin at this first distillery. Twelve botanicals are infused for 7 to 10 days before being distilled in small copper pot stills.
Tasting
Twelve botanicals: juniper, almond, angelica, bergamot, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cubeb, ginger, green cardamom, nutmeg, and orris root. The nose is fragrant and fresh — lime, grapefruit, freshly picked flowers, bergamot providing an immediately inviting aromatic. On the palate at 44%, lively citrus with mint and spices: cinnamon, cubeb, and cardamom make their presence felt, a solid juniper backbone gives way to bergamot brightness. The finish is refreshing and spice-accented with lingering bergamot. Gold at the 2023 Global Gin Masters.
The Bottom Line
NAUD earns a 7 — a French gin that benefits from Cognac country's distilling heritage without mimicking Cognac itself. The bergamot is the star botanical, providing a citrus brightness more complex than standard lemon or orange. The 7-10 day maceration is longer than most gins and produces a depth of flavour that shorter infusions miss. Best in a G&T with Mediterranean tonic and a grapefruit twist. At £34, excellent value from an island distillery with genuine atmosphere.
