Monkey 47 Sloe Gin: A Taste of the Black Forest (50cl)

Introduction

For sloe gin enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and complex expression, look no further than Monkey 47 Sloe Gin. This 50cl bottle from the renowned German distillery offers a unique taste experience, marrying the bold botanical character of Monkey 47 gin with the rich, plummy notes of sloe berries.

Production Process

Crafted in the heart of Germany's Black Forest, Monkey 47 Sloe Gin embodies the region's rich tradition of fruit distillates. The base spirit starts with their award-winning Monkey 47 gin, a complex blend infused with 47 botanicals. These botanicals include juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and citrus peels, contributing a robust and well-rounded base.

Freshly handpicked sloe berries, also known as blackthorn berries, are then macerated (soaked) in the Monkey 47 gin. This process allows the vibrant flavours and natural sugars of the sloes to gently infuse the spirit, creating a harmonious balance between the gin's juniper backbone and the sweet, plummy character of the sloe berries. After a meticulous three-month resting period, the gin is bottled at a lower ABV of 29%, resulting in a luxuriously smooth and approachable liqueur.

Tasting Notes

Nose:  The first impression on the nose is a delightful interplay between the unmistakable juniper character of Monkey 47 gin and the sweet, jammy aroma of ripe sloes. Hints of almond and cherry emerge alongside subtle citrus notes, hinting at the complex botanical symphony beneath the surface.

Palate:  The initial sip delivers a burst of sweet, plummy flavour, reminiscent of damson jam or ripe blackberries. The Monkey 47 gin botanicals soon come to the fore, with a refreshing wave of juniper and citrus zest balancing the sweetness. Subtle earthy notes and a hint of peppery spice add further complexity, creating a truly captivating taste profile.

Finish:  The finish is long and lingering, leaving a pleasant warmth on the palate. The sweet and tart notes of the sloe berries weave seamlessly with the juniper and citrus from the gin, creating a lasting impression of sophistication and depth.

Serving Suggestions

Monkey 47 Sloe Gin's versatility makes it a perfect choice for a variety of drinking occasions. Enjoy it neat, savouring the full complexity of the flavours, or try it chilled over ice for a refreshing twist.

Classic Cocktails:

• Sloe Gin Fizz: Combine 50ml Monkey 47 Sloe Gin, 25ml lemon juice, 15ml sugar syrup, and a dash of soda water in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
• Bramble: Muddle 10 fresh blackberries with a bar spoon of sugar in a shaker. Add 50ml Monkey 47 Sloe Gin, 25ml fresh lemon juice, and a dash of soda water. Shake well and double strain over ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Modern Twists:

• Monkey Negroni: Combine equal parts (25ml each) Monkey 47 Sloe Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well and strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel.
• Sloe Gin Sour: Combine 50ml Monkey 47 Sloe Gin, 25ml fresh lemon juice, 15ml egg white (optional for a richer texture), and 10ml sugar syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Food Pairing

Monkey 47 Sloe Gin's sweet and tart profile makes it a delightful partner for various desserts. Pair it with fruit crumbles, chocolate cakes, or blue cheese for a truly decadent experience.

Conclusion

Monkey 47 Sloe Gin is a luxurious expression of this classic liqueur. The marriage of Monkey 47 gin's complex botanicals with the rich fruitiness of sloe berries creates a truly unique and captivating drinking experience. Whether enjoyed neat, in a classic cocktail, or a modern twist, Monkey 47 Sloe Gin is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.