Junipero Gin Takes Inspiration from Popular Cocktail Trend With Smoked Rosemary Edition

(Photo: Junipero Gin)

Junipero, the brand known for its copper still juniper forward gin have launched a gin inspired by the modern flavors and techniques in gastronomy and mixology. The American gin makers  unveiled the inaugural expression, Smoked Rosemary, at the end of last month.

The original Junipero Gin embodied a classic gin style with strong flavors of juniper and citrus put to the forefront. However, the latest Smoked Rosemary maintains the integrity of the classic with 98.6 proof unfiltered gin made in a copper pot still but adds smoky-herbal notes with dried rosemary and lapsang tea.

Smoked cocktails are among the most popular trends hitting the bar scene. From smoked old fashioneds to smoked white negronis and martinis, bartenders and chefs alike look to the aroma of freshly burned botanicals to enhance their culinary creations. 

“A juniper-forward craft gin may not seem pioneering today, but in 1996 when Junipero Gin was launched, there was nothing like it in the market,” says Bruce Joseph, Master Distiller at Hotaling & Co. “Like the original, Smoked Rosemary is bold, unfiltered, 98.6 proof, and the combination of lapsang tea and rosemary make this a unique new gin. This cocktail-forward expression is a wonderful first step in innovation for Junipero after nearly 30 years.”

The Junipero Gin Smoked Rosemary has already received a Double Gold, from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in April 2024. Double Gold Medals are awarded to those that receive a Gold Medal rating by every member of the judging panel. If Junipero is able to receive a Double Gold for three years in a row then it will be given the prestigious Platinum Medal. 

Junipero Smoked Rosemary has a 49.3% ABV and has an SRP of $34.99 US. Find out more about the latest bottling and where to find it near you at the brand’s website.

Join the Whiskey Raiders Bottle of the Month Club, where you will receive hard-to-find bottles curated by Whiskey Raiders staff with a 90+ rating on whiskeyraiders.com plus live virtual tastings. Sign up here!