Capreolus, Gooseberry Eau de Vie 2023

This is a crystal clear spirit distilled in Gloucestershire in 2023 by Capreolus, a distillery specialising in eau de vie and founded by Barney Wilczak. This premium gooseberry eau de vie is fermented using local wild yeast and is double-distilled in a copper pot. Reflecting the artisanal, locally-minded approach of Wilczak, who is also known as a forager, this release is limited to 254 bottles, sized at just 375ml. Image credit: The Whisky Exchange
Nose
Berries, fresh herbs, ginger spice
Palate
Dried herbs, green tea, blackcurrant
Finish
Dryness, pencil shavings, spiced fruit
The nose is bright and intriguing with tart hedgerow berries bursting out of the glass, followed by a fragrant herbaceous hit of rosemary, sage, and a touch of powdered ginger. On the palate, the texture is wonderfully dry and those herbs deepen into oregano and mint, while a slight tea tannin develops. Dark berries return too. The finish is long and distinct all on its own – much more spice, cooked fruit character, and some more unusual notes like pencil shavings come through right on the end.
Style
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