Lady's Bedstraw: The Hidden Gem in Scottish Gin
Lady's Bedstraw, scientifically known as Galium verum, is a wildflower that has been quietly making its mark in the world of Scottish gin. With its frothy yellow flowers and honey-like scent, this unassuming plant is becoming an increasingly popular botanical in craft gin production across Scotland. Let's explore why this humble herb is capturing the attention of distillers and gin enthusiasts alike.
What is Lady's Bedstraw?
Lady's Bedstraw is a perennial plant native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It typically grows up to 30cm tall and features small, narrow leaves arranged in whorls around its angular stems. The plant blooms from June to September, producing dense clusters of tiny yellow flowers that emit a sweet, honey-like fragrance.
Lady's Bedstraw in Scottish Gin
Several Scottish gin producers have recognised the unique qualities that Lady's Bedstraw brings to their spirits. Here are some notable examples:
Byron's Gin Bird Cherry: This gin, produced by Speyside Distillery, incorporates Lady's Bedstraw alongside other local botanicals like Bird Cherry, Lemon Scented Fern, and Blaeberry.
Tyree Gin: Hailing from the Isle of Tiree, this gin features Lady's Bedstraw as one of its essential botanicals, sourced from the island's unique machair ground.
The Botanist Gin: This popular Islay gin includes Lady's Bedstraw among its 22 hand-foraged local botanicals.
Why Use Lady's Bedstraw in Gin?
Unique Flavor Profile: Lady's Bedstraw adds a subtle, sweet note to gin, complementing traditional botanicals like juniper and coriander.
Local Terroir: Scottish distillers can create gins that truly reflect their regional landscapes by using locally sourced Lady's Bedstraw.
Historical Significance: The plant has a rich history in Scottish folklore and traditional medicine, adding depth to the gin's story.
Aromatic Properties: The plant's honey-like scent can contribute to the gin's overall aroma profile.
Sustainability and Foraging
Many Scottish gin makers, like The Botanist, emphasise sustainable foraging practices when harvesting Lady's Bedstraw and other wild botanicals. This approach ensures the plant's continued growth in the wild and aligns with the increasing consumer demand for environmentally conscious products.
Lady's Bedstraw Beyond Gin
While its use in gin is gaining popularity, Lady's Bedstraw has a long history of other applications:
It was traditionally used to stuff mattresses, hence its name.
The plant has been used to make yellow dyes for textiles.
In cheese-making, it was once used to coagulate milk and add colour to certain cheeses.
Lady's Bedstraw is more than just a pretty wildflower; it's a versatile botanical, adding a unique Scottish twist to the world of gin. As more distillers discover its potential, we can expect this humble plant to flourish in the vibrant Scottish gin scene. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or curious about botanical ingredients, watch for Lady's Bedstraw in your next Scottish gin adventure. Its subtle influence might be the secret ingredient that elevates your gin experience to new heights.
