New Amsterdam Gin Review

“Before New York was New York, it was New Amsterdam. Now the essence of the city has been distilled into the classic New York spirit”. Today’s review is courtesy of New Amsterdam gin, the gin which pays homage to the 17th century Dutch settlement which we now know as New York city. Unfortunately if you live in the area or are visiting, you might have a hard time finding the distillery because it’s actually based out of Modesto, California. Being a fan of gin, and a bigger fan of experimentation/innovation I have mixed feelings about this product.

Aroma: First to hit the nose will be the hints of juniper that gins have come to be known for, however it’s quickly replaced by strong hints of citrus, very much like that of a citrus flavored vodka.

Taste: Though gin connoisseurs will probably disagree, New Amsterdam gin actually has good flavor, and comes off very smooth. It’s hint of juniper and overload of citrus makes you almost forget it’s a gin your drinking which depending on the drinker can be good or bad. If you are looking for a gin to drink straight (not many of us left out there) or to mix in a martini this might not exactly be for you. The lack of gin familiarity that comes from heavy juniper will leaving you with something to be desired. However its unique taste does match perfectly with fruit based cocktails. The buzz of this gin is growing and rightfully so but trying to compare it to a Bombay Sapphire or Hendricks would be like comparing apples to oranges. At it’s economy friendly 12-15$ range however, its perfectly acceptable for daily consumption or while rationing your more traditional gins.

Grade: B- (Based on its overall taste and like-ability, sorry gin lovers)
Price: 12.99

UNION SQUARE

2 strawberries
Sprig of basil
2 oz New Amsterdam Gin
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz agave nectar

Muddle strawberries with the basil until fully mashed, add all other ingredients, and shake with ice vigorously, strain into martini glass and garnish with half strawberry.

L.E.S. (Lower East Side)

2 1/2 oz Gin
1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
3/4 oz Honey
Lime Wedge

Combine all ingredients except wedge in a chilled cocktail shaker and strain into a martini or highball glass and garnish with a wedge.


Little Italy

2 oz New Amsterdan gin
1 1/2 oz limoncello
1/4 oz fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 oz club soda

Combine all ingredients except the soda in a shaker filled with ice, shake vigorously and strain over an ice-filled high ball glass OR as a martini, strain into a martini glass. Add soda last as a float. Garnish with a lemon wheel or top with lemon zest.

Electrolyte

2 1/2 oz Gin
1 tsp Sugar
1 oz Pineapple Juice
2 Slices of Watermelon (or 2 oz Watermelon Juice)
Splash of Lemon Juice

Muddle the watermelon slices and combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Add plenty of ice. Shake vigorously for eight seconds. Pour contents into a highball glass and garnish with a watermelon slice.

Photos and recipes courtesy of New Amsterdam Gin. As always we recommend you become a fan on Facebook to stay current on our latest reviews and recipes. Class Dismissed !