Grape Expectations: A Stirring Twist for Gin

Gin production involves re-flavoring a neutral base spirit (think: vodka). The re-flavoring process requires adding botanicals and ingredients such as berries and roots which are thoughtfully added to the base in order to begin the process of flavor expression.  In Ebra’s case, we re-distill our spirit with the botanicals, giving our gin an even smoother and more authentic, integrated flavor profile.  In today's gin world, the neutral spirit can be made from anything with agricultural origins. Since the gin revival, there has been a lot more interest in the base spirit used due to the various ways certain spirits present themselves. Yet, the most common neutral spirit for gin production used has a grain base made from either corn, wheat, or rye.  With Ebra, we wanted to create a unique neutral base as opposed to the oh-so-common grain base in order to add an element of complexity in texture and a rich smoothness to the flavor. Therefore, Ebra Gin uses a grape base spirit composed from an assortment of different vines throughout the richest vineyards in California. Grape based spirits are particularly sensitive to the weight and proportions of the botanicals used in the mix. Thus, the consideration to detail in Ebra Gin's composition was an intimate and conscious creation that took almost two years to perfect. The grape base element gives Ebra Gin a rhythmic consistency and aromatic character that makes it noteworthy and distinct.