The Botanist Distiller's Strength

I can't believe I fell for this one. I saw that it was 100 proof in the store, and given that most gins are bottled somewhere between 80-85, this is a pretty good improvement, although factually not even close to navy strength, which is why they probably went with the term "distiller's strength" instead. Now that I know this is only a measly increase of 4% ABV as compared to the original, and with absolutely no other changes noted, it's safe to say this distiller either is weak as all hell, or should be demoted nonetheless, especially so that the label is bold enough to consider 100 proof "full strength." I anticipate miniscule to no perceivable difference here, but it's at least good that I don't remember what classic Botanist tastes like, so it's kind of new to me in a way. The nose is very clean and full of fresh citrus oil, as well as a general mix of slightly sweet berries, but much lower as compared to the citrus. The juniper is medium with a touch of spicy herbaceous alongside it, with the bare increase of ethanol still allowing this to be approachable and just on the edge of nostril burn territory. The flavor begins with basic, somewhat soft juniper combined with a touch of casiss and bark, then moves to some citrus oil (main focus on lemon, but a little grapefruit is also perceptible), as well as artificial mixed berry flavor and even something of a milkiness. The heat builds over time, moving across the surface of the gums to create a noticeable hot feeling, but still easily in more of a medium territory altogether. The finish is mostly felt there in the gums, but that same milky note from before becomes sweet but also a little astringent, and makes for a less enjoyable finish than beginning. Overall this a simple gin that doesn't focus on anything too specific, which, being that 22 isn't a low number of botanicals used, can either be good or bad depending on if you look at it as rounded and blended, or more of a waste of potential (as I do). I didn't see how much this costs, but if it was MSRP, it definitely isn't worth it, even though it's hard to find gins at or above 100 proof on the market (let alone navy strength). I'll give Bruichladdich the credit of making damn good whisky, but this seems too obvious of a quick, unaged money turner and cash grab, and is almost shameful. The website even has traveler exclusive "Herbridean Strength" edition, which the description (or lack thereof) implies that the only difference is a microscopic increase of 1.5% (for a total of 103 proof), which I'm surely hoping I just misunderstand, although I fear that I do not.

I’ll cut to the chase - this is indistinguishable from the regular Botanist. If you like the original, you will like this. If you’re looking for a change like you get when moving from Tanquray to the 10, you’re not going to find it here. As a side note, it seems to me that the entire series has slid a liitle over the past few years. The citrus notes are greatly reduced and the rich, almost oily mouthfeel is gone. I still like it but it will only go in a martini now, and both the aforementioned Tanquray and Beefeater already fill that role nicely, without the premium price.