First Impressions
Pinckney Bend Distillery opened in Missouri in 2011 — one of America's earlier craft distilleries, named after a bend in the Missouri River. Their approach to gin is methodical: nine organic botanicals, each handled separately. Some are macerated in spirit before distillation; others are best expressed through vapour infusion. The individual distillates are then blended to create the finished gin at a robust 46.5% ABV.
Tasting
Nine organic botanicals: juniper, orris root, liquorice, angelica, coriander, lavender, lemon peel, orange peel, and lime peel — a trio of citrus that defines the gin's character. The nose is citrus-rich: lime zest, liquorice, bitter orange, with juniper in the background. On the palate at 46.5%, delightfully citrus-forward — lemon arrives early, strong lime and orange develop mid-palate, lavender adds floral depth, and juniper provides structure. The finish is citrus and spice with lingering lavender. Gold at San Francisco, Bronze at IWSC London.
The Bottom Line
Pinckney Bend earns a 7 — a well-made American gin that proves Missouri can compete with the established gin-producing regions. The individual treatment of each botanical is evident in the clarity of the flavour profile, and the triple-citrus peel approach gives this a brightness that works brilliantly in a G&T. At £39 and 46.5%, you get a lot of gin for your money. A citrus-forward American alternative worth discovering.
