Organic Nation Gin and Vodka

All vodkas and gins are not created equal and, while there are many options available, some require a little more attention. The spirits from Organic Nation are two of those and are lovely additions to the growing organic spirits market. Both the vodka and gin are produced by Diane Paulson and David Eliasen in Ashland, Oregon in the state's first organic distillery and both are shining examples of what great natural spirits should be.

Organic spirits are nothing new anymore, a few years ago, sure, but now we have almost come to expect some form of organic or natural process or ingredient from liquors we consider boutique. This particular market is always expanding and within all of the new releases only a few truly stand out. It turns out that Organic Nation is one of those brands, and it is also an extra bonus that the distillery produces both a vodka and a gin of superior (and organic) quality so Martini lovers of either variety have a well-designed and complimentary option.

Organic Nation's vodka and gin are each produced from the same base or 65% rye with some corn and wheat making up the remainder. This combination of grains is amazing and rare in white spirits where most companies (who divulge their distillate) will choose one grain. The rye adds an intriguing texture, a warmth, to the clear liquor and makes the vodka alone very interesting, darker in profile than what most are used to. When that base is paired with the 12 (organic, of course) botanicals of O-N Gin the result is almost savory. Both are very well developed liquors and fantastic additions to a modern liquor cabinet.

O-N Gin
Organic Nation Gin is rather unique in the world of gin. It has the sweet graininess of genever and the clean botanicals of a London dry. It is a great choice for a Dry Martini and makes a stunning appearance in a Gin and Tonic. This is a modern gin that deserves a place in classic cocktails.

Tasting Notes:
I found the presence of lavender most notable in this gin. It begins in the nose where it meets mint and citrus, and carries through to the definably smooth palate. Here the flavor is a ever-so-gentle juniper with lemon and cucumber accents. The finish is smooth, very warm and touch with black pepper.

O-N Vodka
Organic Nation Vodka is a little grainier than other organic vodkas of similar quality, and this can be a good or bad thing depending on your tastes. I happen to enjoy the depth that this darkness adds because it is very notably a predominantly rye spirit, which is a nice change of pace from neutral grains. With this vodka the door is open to any vodka cocktail you wish to mix up, though you will notice that when mixed with fruits the vodka amplifies the fruit's flavor, especially with fresh fruit. All I can say is mix and enjoy with this one, or don't mix and just chill and sip. Either way you will not lose.

Tasting Notes:
This vodka has a very rich feel that is predicated in the succulent fragrance marked with clean, fresh cut grain. The palate is smooth, extremely clean, and holds the most delicate notes of vanilla. Its finish is again, clean, almost refreshing and leaves a lovely, rich grain on the tongue.

Organic Nation Cocktails:

• Bring It Home
• The Big Brew
• Ultimate Pitcher of Bloody Mary Mix
• Super Bowl XLIV inspired cocktails