If you're a connoisseur of fine spirits or simply looking for fresh inspiration for your next cocktail, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore the rich history and unique characteristics of Oak Aged Gin, a spirit known for its deep, complex flavours and exceptional versatility in cocktails. We'll also share three exquisite Oak Aged Gin cocktail recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail with a contemporary twist or something entirely new to impress your guests, these recipes will help you make the most of this exceptional gin. So, grab your shaker and let's dive into the world of Oak Aged Gin!

   

What is Oak Aged Gin?

Oak Aged Gin, also known as barrel-aged gin, is a unique variation of gin that undergoes a maturation process in oak barrels. This process imparts a rich, complex character to the gin, distinguishing it from the more commonly known clear gins. The ageing process allows the spirit to absorb the flavours and aromas from the oak, resulting in a deeper, more nuanced profile that appeals to both gin aficionados and those who appreciate the subtleties of aged spirits like whiskey.

History of Oak Aged Gin

The concept of ageing gin in barrels is not entirely new. In fact, it dates back to the early days of gin production when spirits were often stored and transported in wooden barrels. This incidental ageing process imparted a distinct character to the gin, which was often appreciated for its smoother, more rounded flavour. However, with the advent of modern distillation and storage techniques, the practice of ageing gin fell out of favour as clear, unaged gin became the norm.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in craft spirits and traditional production methods. This revival has led to a renewed appreciation for oak-aged gin, as distillers experiment with ageing processes to create unique, premium products. By revisiting and refining these age-old techniques, modern distillers are able to produce oak-aged gins that celebrate both the heritage of gin production and the contemporary desire for innovative and complex spirits.

The Oak Aging Process

The process of creating oak-aged gin begins much like any other gin. The spirit is distilled with a variety of botanicals, which typically include juniper, citrus, and other herbs and spices. Once the gin has been distilled and its flavours balanced, it is transferred to oak barrels for ageing. The type of oak, the previous contents of the barrel (such as bourbon, wine, or sherry), and the duration of ageing all play critical roles in determining the final flavour profile of the gin.

As the gin rests in the barrels, it absorbs compounds from the wood, such as vanillin, tannins, and lignins. These compounds contribute to the spirit's flavour, aroma, and colour, adding layers of complexity and depth. The ageing process also allows for the mellowing of harsher elements in the gin, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive product. Distillers carefully monitor this process to ensure that the gin reaches its optimal maturity without overpowering its botanical character.

Flavour Profile of Oak Aged Gin

The flavour profile of oak-aged gin is markedly different from that of unaged gin. While it retains the botanical essence that defines gin, the ageing process introduces additional notes of vanilla, caramel, spice, and oak. These flavours blend harmoniously with the original botanicals, creating a spirit that is both familiar and intriguingly new. The result is a gin that can be enjoyed neat, much like a fine whiskey, or used to add depth and complexity to cocktails.

Oak-aged gin often exhibits a golden hue, a visual testament to its time spent in barrels. The interplay of botanical and oak-derived flavours makes it a versatile spirit that can enhance a wide range of cocktails, from classic recipes to contemporary creations. Whether sipped on its own or mixed into a sophisticated drink, oak-aged gin offers a unique tasting experience that bridges the gap between gin and other aged spirits.

Capricorn Oak Aged Gin

Capricorn Oak Aged Gin is a true testament to the art of gin making, crafted with passion and precision in Queensland, Australia. This multi award-winning gin is produced using a small-batch copper still, which allows for meticulous control over the distillation process, ensuring that each batch maintains the highest quality standards. The result is a gin that not only captures the essence of its carefully selected botanicals but also embraces the unique characteristics imparted by its ageing process.

What sets Capricorn Oak Aged Gin apart is its blend of 19 botanicals, each chosen for their ability to contribute to the gin's complex flavour profile. These botanicals are skillfully combined to create a harmonious blend that features both familiar and exotic notes. Among these botanicals, you will find juniper berries, citrus peels, and a variety of spices and herbs that together create a gin that is both robust and nuanced.

The ageing process for Capricorn Oak Aged Gin takes place in ex-shiraz American oak barrels, which adds a distinctive warm and woody finish to the spirit. These barrels, having previously held rich shiraz wine, impart subtle notes of dark fruit and tannin, enhancing the gin's depth and complexity. The interaction between the gin and the oak barrels over time allows for the development of a rich, layered flavour that is both smooth and sophisticated.

One of the key features of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin is its commitment to purity and authenticity. No sugar or artificial flavours are added during the production process. This ensures that the natural flavours of the botanicals shine through, providing a genuine tasting experience that highlights the gin's botanical richness and the influence of the oak ageing. The result is a spirit that is both clean and flavourful, with a balance that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Capricorn Oak Aged Gin is versatile in its enjoyment. Its rich and complex flavour makes it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, where the warmth of the oak and the brightness of the botanicals can be fully appreciated. For those who prefer a mixed drink, this gin pairs beautifully with a dash of tonic or soda, allowing its flavours to shine without being overwhelmed. Whether enjoyed in a simple highball or as the base for a more elaborate cocktail, Capricorn Oak Aged Gin brings a unique and flavourful twist to any drink.

For gin enthusiasts and newcomers alike, Capricorn Oak Aged Gin is a standout addition to any collection. Its handcrafted quality, intricate blend of botanicals, and distinctive ageing process make it a gin that is both traditional and innovative. It embodies the best of what oak-aged gin has to offer, providing a rich and satisfying experience that is sure to delight anyone who appreciates fine spirits.

Let’s dive into three of our favourite Oak Aged Gin Cocktails. 

Cocktail #1 - The Ruby Man 

Watch it here

The Ruby Man is a bitter-sweet cocktail crafted with Capricorn Oak Aged Gin. This delightful drink combines the robust and woody notes of the gin with the bright, fruity flavours of Pampelle and sweet vermouth. The addition of Luxardo Maraschino adds a touch of cherry sweetness, making The Ruby Man an absolute treat that is both refreshing and complex.

Ingredients:

• 30ml Capricorn Oak Aged Gin
• 15ml Pampelle
• 30ml Sweet vermouth
• 15ml Luxardo Maraschino
• Garnish: Maraschino cherry

Method:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add 30ml of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin, 15ml of Pampelle, 30ml of sweet vermouth, and 15ml of Luxardo Maraschino.
3. Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Why We Love This Cocktail:

We love The Ruby Man because it perfectly balances the bold flavours of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin with the sweet and fruity notes of Pampelle and Luxardo Maraschino. The sweet vermouth adds a smooth, herbal layer that ties everything together, creating a cocktail that is both sophisticated and delightful. Whether you're enjoying it as a pre-dinner aperitif or a late-night indulgence, The Ruby Man is sure to impress with its rich and harmonious flavours.

Cocktail #2 - M.I.A 

Watch it here 

The M.I.A is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that showcases the distinctive flavour of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin. This drink combines the sharpness of lemon juice, the bittersweet notes of Amaro, and the zesty sweetness of orange liqueur, all balanced perfectly with a splash of dark soda. The playful garnish of a paper plane adds a whimsical touch to this delightful cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 30ml Capricorn Oak Aged Gin
• 30ml Lemon juice
• 30ml Amaro
• 30ml Orange liqueur
• Dark soda (to top up)
• Garnish: Paper plane

Method:

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add 30ml of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin, 30ml of lemon juice, 30ml of Amaro, and 30ml of orange liqueur.
3. Shake well until the mixture is well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top up with dark soda.
6. Garnish with a paper plane.

Why We Love This Cocktail:

We love M.I.A because it is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that brings out the best in Capricorn Oak Aged Gin. The combination of citrus and bittersweet flavours creates a perfect balance that is both invigorating and satisfying. It's a perfect drink for those who enjoy a mix of classic and contemporary flavours in their cocktails.

Cocktail #3 - Negroni 

 

Watch video here 

The Oak Aged Negroni is a sophisticated and bold cocktail that puts a unique twist on the classic Negroni. By using Capricorn Oak Aged Gin, this version introduces a deeper, woodier profile to the traditional mix of sweet vermouth and bitter liqueur. The result is a beautifully balanced drink that is both rich and refreshing, perfect for sipping and savouring.

Ingredients:

• 25ml Capricorn Oak Aged Gin
• 25ml Sweet vermouth
• 25ml Bitter liqueur
• Garnish: Orange peel

Method:

1. Combine 25ml of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin, 25ml of sweet vermouth, and 25ml of bitter liqueur in a mixing glass.
2. Add ice and stir well until thoroughly chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Twist an orange peel over the glass to release its oils and drop it in as a garnish.

Why We Love This Cocktail:

We love the Oak Aged Negroni because it enhances the classic Negroni with the complex, woody flavours of Capricorn Oak Aged Gin. The interplay of sweet vermouth and bitter liqueur with the aged gin creates a rich, layered cocktail that is both smooth and robust. 

The orange peel garnish adds a bright citrus note that perfectly complements the deeper flavours, making this a truly exceptional cocktail experience. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or a nightcap, the Oak Aged Negroni is a testament to the versatility and sophistication of aged gin.