As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide range of gins, including Ginebra San Miguel. When it comes to describing the taste of Ginebra San Miguel gin, there are a few key characteristics that stand out.
First and foremost, the nose of Ginebra San Miguel is immediately recognizable with its prominent juniper aroma. However, there is also a harsh edge to the scent, which adds a bit of complexity to the overall profile. It's important to note that this harshness may not appeal to everyone, as some people prefer a smoother and more refined nose.
Moving on to the palate, Ginebra San Miguel gin starts off quite subtly. There is a hint of sweetness that reminds me of straw, and the juniper takes on a slightly pine-forward quality. This pine-forward edge adds a refreshing element to the gin, which can be quite enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced juniper flavor.
However, I must mention that I found the overall taste of Ginebra San Miguel gin to be a bit flat. It lacks the depth and complexity that I have come to expect from other premium gins. Additionally, there is a lingering acrid and chemical aftertaste that I found somewhat unpleasant. This aftertaste detracted from the overall drinking experience and left me wanting more from the gin.
In terms of specific flavor notes, I also detected hints of spice, pepper, coriander, acetone, and salt in Ginebra San Miguel gin. These additional flavors add a layer of complexity to the gin, but they are not enough to fully compensate for its shortcomings.
My personal experience with Ginebra San Miguel gin was underwhelming. While it does have some redeeming qualities, such as the recognizable juniper nose and the refreshing pine-forward edge, it falls short in terms of depth and complexity. The harsh edge in the nose and the acrid aftertaste also detract from the overall drinking experience.