Mugwort Leaves and Their Role in Gin: A Scottish Perspective

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), a perennial herb with a rich history, has been used for centuries in various culinary, medicinal, and magical contexts. In recent years, it has found a unique place in the world of gin, particularly in Scotland, where its historical and botanical significance is celebrated. This blog explores the fascinating journey of mugwort leaves in gin, their historical uses, tasting notes, and their special connection to Scotland.

Historical Context

Mugwort has a storied past, deeply rooted in folklore and traditional medicine. After the Greek moon goddess Artemis, mugwort was revered for its protective and healing properties. Roman soldiers used it to ward off fatigue, and medieval herbalists used it to treat various ailments. In beverages, mugwort was a staple ingredient in beer before hops became the norm.

Mugwort in Gin

One of the most notable examples of mugwort in gin is The Botanist, a dry gin produced by the Bruichladdich Distillery on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. This gin is renowned for using 22 hand-foraged botanicals from Islay, including mugwort leaves. Mugwort adds a unique herbal complexity to the gin, enhancing its aromatic profile.

Crafting Gin with Mugwort

Mugwort's bitter and aromatic qualities make it an excellent botanical for gin. When dried and crushed, its leaves release a distinctive flavour that complements other botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus peels. Infusing mugwort into gin involves macerating the leaves in a neutral spirit, allowing the flavours to meld over time. This method ensures that the gin captures the essence of mugwort without overpowering the other ingredients.

Tasting Notes

Mugwort imparts a unique flavour to gin, characterised by its herbal, slightly bitter notes. The aroma is reminiscent of sage or rosemary, with a subtle earthiness that adds depth to the spirit. When used in gin, mugwort can enhance the overall complexity, providing a balanced bitterness that pairs well with the traditional juniper-forward taste.

• Aroma: Herbal, with hints of sage and rosemary.
• Flavour: Bitter, earthy, with a slight sweetness.
• Finish: Long-lasting herbal notes with a clean, crisp finish.

Mugwort and Scottish Tradition

In Scotland, mugwort has been used historically for its medicinal properties and as a culinary herb. Its presence in Scottish gin is a nod to these traditional uses, celebrating the herb's local significance. The inclusion of mugwort in The Botanist gin, for example, highlights the distillery's commitment to using native botanicals, reflecting the rich biodiversity of Islay.

Mugwort leaves bring a unique and historical dimension to gin, particularly in Scotland, where the herb's traditional uses are honoured. Whether enjoyed in a classic gin and tonic or a more adventurous cocktail, gin infused with mugwort offers a taste of history and a connection to the natural world. As the craft gin movement grows, using botanicals like mugwort ensures that each bottle tells a story rooted in tradition and local heritage.