Sea Lettuce in Gin: A Scottish Coastal Delight

Sea lettuce, a vibrant green seaweed, has been making waves in the culinary world for its unique flavour and nutritional benefits. Recently, it has also found a special place in the world of gin, particularly in Scotland. This blog explores the history, uses, and tasting notes of sea lettuce in gin, focusing on its Scottish context.

History of Sea Lettuce in Gin

Seaweed has been introduced previously in gin. Coastal botanicals have long been a part of gin-making, with distillers seeking to capture the essence of the sea in their spirits. Sea lettuce, or Ulva lactuca, is a type of green algae found in the intertidal zones of coastlines worldwide. Its incorporation into gin is part of a broader trend of using local, sustainable ingredients to create unique flavour profiles. In Scotland, the tradition of using seaweed dates back centuries. Historical records from the Hebrides mention using seaweed in various forms, from food to fertiliser. The modern revival of this practice in gin-making is a nod to these ancient traditions, blending the old with the new to create innovative spirits deeply rooted in local heritage.

Uses of Sea Lettuce in Gin

Sea lettuce is prized for its fresh, salty, and slightly peppery flavour, which can add a distinctive maritime note to gin. Here are some ways it is used in gin production:

1. Botanical Infusion: Sea lettuce is often used as a botanical in gin, alongside juniper, citrus, and other herbs. Its inclusion adds a layer of complexity and a hint of the ocean to the spirit.
2. Flavor Enhancer: Sea lettuce’s umami-rich profile can enhance the overall flavour of the gin, making it more robust and savoury.
3. Sustainability: Using sea lettuce aligns with the growing trend of sustainable and locally sourced ingredients in gin production. It is abundant and renewable, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Tasting Notes

Sea lettuce imparts a unique flavour to gin, which can be described as follows:

• Aroma: The nose often reveals a fresh, grassy aroma with a hint of the sea. There may also be subtle notes of iron and a slight sweetness.
• Palate: On the palate, sea lettuce has a salty, slightly peppery taste and a fresh oceanic flavour. It can also add a soft, supple texture to the gin.
• Finish: The finish is typically lengthy and smooth, with lingering notes of brine and a touch of umami.

Scottish Context

Scotland, with its rugged coastline and rich maritime heritage, is an ideal setting for using sea lettuce in gin. Several Scottish distilleries have embraced this botanical, creating gins that reflect the unique terroir of their coastal environments.
Lussa Gin

Lussa Gin, produced on the Isle of Jura, is a prime example. The distillers use sea lettuce harvested from the bays on the north end of the island. This botanical adds a hint of sea spray to the gin, perfectly capturing the essence of Jura's wild landscape.

Sea lettuce is a remarkable botanical that brings a taste of the sea to gin. Its use in Scottish gins highlights the country's rich coastal heritage and commitment to sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether enjoyed neat, in a classic G&T, or as part of a creative cocktail, sea lettuce-infused gin offers a unique and refreshing experience for gin enthusiasts.So next time you're looking to explore new flavors, consider reaching for a bottle of Scottish gin with a touch of sea lettuce. It's a journey to the coast in every sip.