The Botanist Dry Gin

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is a remarkable expression from the whisky-famous Bruichladdich Distillery, crafted in the unique ‘Ugly Betty’ Lomond still. Distilled slowly with nine classic gin botanicals and a further 22 hand-foraged botanicals native to Islay, it delivers complexity, elegance, and balance. Citrus brightness meets floral depth and herbaceous freshness, reflecting the wild spirit of its Hebridean island home.

Tasting Notes & Experience

On the nose, apple mint, spring woodlands, citrus peel, and summer florals. The palate is rich and mellow, cool at first, then warming with juniper, coriander, and delicate spice. The finish is luxurious, long, and pure, with a starburst of layered botanicals lingering elegantly.

Key Details

• Producer: Bruichladdich Distillery
• Type: Dry Gin
• Region: Islay, Scotland
• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 700ml
• Other: Vegan-Friendly, Gluten Free
• Botanicals: Nine core botanicals (juniper, coriander, angelica, cassia, cinnamon, liquorice, orris root, lemon & orange peel) plus 22 hand-foraged Islay plants including apple mint, chamomile, elderflower, heather, gorse, and meadowsweet
• Signature Serve: Premium tonic, over ice, garnished with grapefruit wheel and a sprig of rosemary

Cocktail Pairings

The Botanist’s citrus, floral, and herbal notes make it a versatile base for both timeless and creative cocktails. Try a classic Martini to showcase its purity, or a Negroni where its layered botanicals stand tall. A Grapefruit & Rosemary G&T accentuates its citrus and herbal tones, while a Southside Gimlet with mint and lime offers a refreshing seasonal twist. For a celebratory serve, the Botanist Spritz with soda or Champagne is elegant and effervescent.

Craftsmanship & Story

The Botanist is distilled at Bruichladdich Distillery, Islay’s progressive whisky maker, in the last remaining Lomond pot still, affectionately named ‘Ugly Betty’. Distillation takes 17 hours — three times longer than traditional methods — gently extracting flavour from 31 botanicals, of which 22 are hand-foraged from Islay’s rugged hills, heather, and coastline. This meticulous process creates a gin of extraordinary character, deeply rooted in the island’s heritage.

Recognition & Accolades

The Botanist has been recognised globally for both quality and innovation, reflecting its distinctive Islay provenance and botanical complexity:

• Gold Medal – USA Spirits Ratings (2023) & Best in Show by Country
• Gold Medal – World Gin Awards (2024)
• Gold Medal – The Spirits Business Global Gin Masters (2023)
• Diamond Prize – Femmes et Spiriteux du Monde (2011)
• Silver Medal – World Gin Awards (2025)
• Silver Medal – International Wine & Spirit Competition (2019)
• Silver Medal – San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2019)
• Bronze Medals – NZ Spirits Awards (2022 & 2023)

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A world-class Islay gin that impresses with its elegant complexity and iconic embossed bottle. The Botanist is equally suited for refined cocktails or contemplative sipping, making it a thoughtful gift or a luxurious addition to any collection.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.