Borage and Its Role in Scottish Gin: A Blossoming Relationship

Borage, also known as starflower, is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region. Known for its vibrant blue, star-shaped flowers and cucumber-like flavour, borage has found its way into various culinary and medicinal applications. Recently, it has also become a notable botanical in the world of gin, particularly in Scotland. This blog post explores the fascinating relationship between borage and Scottish gin, highlighting its benefits, uses, and the unique qualities it brings to this beloved spirit.

What is Borage?

Borage (Borago officinalis) is a hardy annual herb that can grow up to 60-100 cm tall. It features bristly stems and leaves, with typically blue flowers that can also be pink or white. The plant is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Borage flowers and leaves are edible and often used to garnish salads, drinks, and desserts due to their mild, cucumber-like flavour.

The Rise of Scottish Gin

Scotland has a long history with gin, dating back to the 1700s. Today, Scotland produces over 70% of the UK's gin, with around 100 distilleries crafting a diverse range of gins. The Scottish gin industry has seen a renaissance in recent years, driven by a combination of traditional distilling expertise and innovative use of local botanicals.

Borage in Scottish Gin

Borage has become a popular botanical in Scottish gin for several reasons:

1. Flavor Profile: The cucumber-like flavour of borage adds a refreshing note to gin, complementing the traditional juniper and other botanicals. This makes it an excellent choice for summer drinks and cocktails.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: The vibrant blue flowers of borage are visually appealing and edible, making them a perfect garnish for gin-based cocktails. They can also be frozen in ice cubes for a decorative touch.
3. Historical Significance: Borage has been used historically for its medicinal properties, including as a natural calming agent and to boost courage. This historical context adds a layer of storytelling to Scottish gins that use borage, enhancing their appeal to consumers.

Notable Scottish Gins Featuring Borage

Several Scottish gins have embraced borage as a critical botanical, each bringing its unique twist to the spirit:

• Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin: This gin features a blend of local botanicals, including borage, which adds a fresh, herbal note to the spirit. Using borage complements ingredients like angelica and rose, creating a distinctive flavour profile.
• The Botanist: Known for using 31 botanicals, 22 of which are foraged from the Isle of Islay, The Botanist includes borage to enhance its complex, floral, and herbal character. This gin is celebrated for its depth and balance, making it a favourite among enthusiasts.

Growing and Using Borage

Borage is relatively easy to grow, making it accessible for commercial distilleries and home gardeners. Here are some tips for growing and using borage:

• Planting: Borage prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can be sown directly into the ground in spring and will self-seed, often reappearing year after year.
• Harvesting: Both the leaves and flowers of borage are edible. The leaves are best used when young and tender, while the flowers can be harvested throughout the blooming season for use as garnishes.
• Culinary Uses: In addition to gin, borage can be used in salads, soups, and as a garnish for various dishes. Its mild flavour pairs well with multiple ingredients, making it a versatile addition to the kitchen.

Borage's unique flavor and aesthetic appeal have made it a valuable addition to the world of Scottish gin. As the gin industry continues to innovate and explore new botanicals, borage stands out for its historical significance, culinary versatility, and the refreshing note it brings to gin. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or a curious gardener, borage offers a delightful way to enhance your gin experience.By incorporating borage into their recipes, Scottish gin distillers are not only honoring tradition but also pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity. So, the next time you enjoy a gin and tonic, look out for the subtle, refreshing hint of borage – a small but significant botanical that adds a touch of magic to every sip.