Hendrick's Gin is known for its unique flavor profile, infused with traditional botanicals such as juniper, coriander, and citrus peel, along with the unusual addition of Bulgarian rose petals and cucumber. It is a gin that has gained a loyal following for its refreshing and floral character.
In contrast, Hendrick's Orbium is a re-imagining of the original Hendrick's Gin, crafted by the Master Distiller, Lesley Gracie. It takes the core elements of Hendrick's and adds a few additional botanical extracts to create a gin that is both familiar and intriguingly different.
One of the key differences between Hendrick's and Orbium lies in the additional botanical extracts used in the latter. Orbium includes extracts of quinine, wormwood, and blue lotus blossom, which give it a distinct and unusual flavor profile. Quinine, known for its presence in tonic water, adds a subtle bitterness to the gin, while wormwood, often associated with absinthe, contributes a herbaceous and slightly earthy note. The blue lotus blossom extract imparts a delicate floral aroma and adds to the overall complexity of the gin.
The result of these additional botanical extracts is an oddly exquisite gin that sits roundly on the palate. The flavors of Hendrick's Orbium are well-balanced, with the familiar notes of juniper and citrus still present, but complemented by the unique and intriguing flavors from the quinine, wormwood, and blue lotus blossom.
In terms of taste, Hendrick's Orbium can be described as a gin that offers a slightly more complex and layered experience compared to the original Hendrick's Gin. The additional botanical extracts bring a touch of bitterness and herbaceousness, while still maintaining the signature floral and refreshing qualities that Hendrick's is known for.
It is worth noting that while Hendrick's Orbium is a distinct expression of the Hendrick's brand, it is not intended to replace or supersede the original Hendrick's Gin. Instead, it offers gin enthusiasts a different sensory experience, allowing them to explore new and unexpected flavors within the world of Hendrick's.
In my personal experience, I have found that Hendrick's Orbium is a gin that appeals to those who enjoy experimenting with different flavors and appreciate the artistry of distillation. It is a gin that can be enjoyed neat or in a variety of cocktails, allowing the unique flavors to shine through.
To summarize, the main difference between Hendrick's and Hendrick's Orbium lies in the additional botanical extracts used in Orbium, namely quinine, wormwood, and blue lotus blossom. These extracts contribute to a more complex and layered flavor profile, while still retaining the signature floral and refreshing qualities of Hendrick's Gin. Hendrick's Orbium offers gin enthusiasts a unique and intriguing sensory experience, allowing them to explore new flavors within the Hendrick's brand.