Rowan Berries and Their Role in Gin: A Scottish Tradition
Rowan berries, also known as mountain-ash berries, are small, bright red fruits that have been intertwined with history, mythology, and culinary traditions for centuries. In the world of gin, these berries have carved out a unique niche, particularly in Scotland, where they are celebrated for their distinctive flavor and cultural significance. This blog explores the history of rowan berries, their uses in gin, tasting notes, and their special connection to Scotland.
Historical and Mythological Significance
Rowan trees (Sorbus aucuparia) have a rich history that spans various cultures and mythologies. In ancient Greek mythology, the rowan tree was believed to have grown from the blood of an eagle sent by the gods to retrieve a magical chalice. Norse mythology also holds the rowan tree in high regard, associating it with the god Thor, who was saved by a rowan tree during a perilous encounter with giants. In Celtic traditions, rowan trees were planted near homes to offer protection from evil spirits and bring courage and wisdom.
Rowan Berries in Gin: The Botanical Profile
Rowan berries are known for their bittersweet and astringent flavor, which makes them a unique botanical in gin production. They are often used to balance and complement other botanicals, adding a layer of complexity to the spirit. The berries are rich in vitamins and have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including kidney diseases and rheumatism.
Notable Scottish Gins Featuring Rowan Berries
Rock Rose Gin: This gin from Dunnet Bay Distillery uses rowan berries for their sweetness and slightly bitter, astringent tones. The berries complement the rose aroma and the spice from other botanicals like angelica root and coriander seeds.
Caorunn Gin: Named after the Gaelic word for rowan berry, Caorunn Gin prominently features this botanical. The gin is known for its peppery and fruity flavour, luxurious mouthfeel, and lingering finish.
Tear Drop Gin: This gin combines bittersweet rowan berries with brambles, creating a fresh and aromatic profile with a hint of pepper. To highlight the berry flavours, it is recommended that it be enjoyed with tonic or even plain soda.
Ben Lomond Scottish Gin: This gin offers a soft and fruity finish with sweet rowan berry notes, balanced with citrus orange and summer berries.
Tasting Notes
Rowan berries impart a distinctive flavour profile to gin, characterized by:
Bittersweetness: The berries provide a balance of sweet and bitter notes, which can enhance the gin’s overall complexity.
Astringency: The astringent quality of rowan berries adds a crisp, clean finish to the spirit.
Fruity Undertones: Depending on the gin, rowan berries can contribute subtle fruity flavours reminiscent of grapefruit and orange peel.
Uses in Cocktails
Rowan berries are versatile in their application in cocktails. They can be used in various forms, including:
Infusions: Rowan berries can be infused in alcohol to create liqueurs and schnapps. For example, rowanberry schnapps made with vodka and sugar offer a rich, fruity taste with notes of grapefruit and orange peel.
Syrups: Rowan berry syrup can sweeten cocktails and add a unique flavour. It pairs well with gin and can be used instead of traditional bitters.
Garnishes: Fresh or frozen rowan berries can be used as a garnish to add visual appeal and a hint of their distinctive flavour to gin-based drinks.
Rowan berries hold a special place in the world of gin, particularly in Scotland, where their historical and cultural significance is celebrated. Their unique flavor profile adds depth and complexity to gin, making them a cherished botanical among distillers. Whether enjoyed in a classic gin and tonic or as part of a creative cocktail, rowan berries continue to enchant gin enthusiasts with their bittersweet charm and rich heritage.
