The world of craft spirits is rarely dull, but Wisconsin’s State Line Distillery is currently generating a particularly noticeable buzz – and it’s all thanks to their innovative Lapsang Souchong smoked gin. Launched as a limited-batch expression, this unique spirit is rapidly gaining traction among discerning craft spirits enthusiasts and signals a significant, and growing, trend within the industry. More than just a novelty, State Line Distillery’s smoked gin is a testament to thoughtful innovation and a deep understanding of flavor, positioning it as a key player in the evolving landscape of premium spirits.
The Smoked Sensation: A Captivating Aroma
At the heart of the distillery’s success is the masterful incorporation of the distinctive smoky notes of Lapsang Souchong tea. Lapsang Souchong, a famed Chinese black tea, undergoes a unique drying process that infuses it with intense smokiness, and State Line Distillery has expertly harnessed this characteristic. The gin’s aroma alone is immediately arresting, powerfully evoking a crackling campfire, rich pine needles, and a subtle hint of dark chocolate. This isn’t simply a flavoring; it’s a carefully considered approach that has already garnered significant buzz. The taste delivers a surprisingly sophisticated experience, building on the initial smoky impression with layers of juniper, citrus, and a lingering warmth. The initial intensity mellows into a complex, multi-dimensional spirit that’s both bold and incredibly balanced.
A Trend in Full Swing: Smoked Spirits Take Center Stage
The rising popularity of State Line Distillery’s smoked gin reflects a broader trend within the spirits industry. Recent reports from *Difford’s Guide* indicate a massive surge in the global market for smoked whisky and gin, driven by consumer demand for intensely complex and layered flavors. The report highlights that consumers are increasingly seeking out experiences that go beyond traditional spirits, moving away from straightforward juniper-forward profiles. “Consumers are increasingly seeking out experiences that go beyond traditional spirits,” notes *Difford’s Guide*, suggesting a shift towards bolder, more adventurous tastes. This trend points to a broader movement within the spirits industry toward artisanal production, emphasizing nuanced flavor profiles and a willingness to experiment with unconventional techniques.
The Craft Behind the Smoke: Quality and Precision
State Line Distillery, a small-batch producer with a staunch commitment to quality, meticulously crafts its Lapsang Souchong expression. *Difford’s Guide* rightly emphasizes the crucial role of selecting the tea – “careful selection of the tea is key to achieving the desired smoky profile – it’s not just throwing some tea leaves in a pot.” This attention to detail underscores the quality and artistry behind the spirit. The distillery sources its Lapsang Souchong from a specific region known for its particularly robust smokiness, further contributing to the complex flavor profile. The small-batch production method allows for complete control over the infusion process, ensuring consistent quality and highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship involved.
Understanding the Process: Layering Flavor Through Distillation
*Spirited Zine* offers a fascinating breakdown of the infusion process, explaining how the tea’s phenols effectively infuse into the spirit during distillation. This technique, common within the craft spirit movement, involves steeping the Lapsang Souchong tea in the base spirit, followed by distillation. The careful layering of flavor is a hallmark of this movement, offering drinkers a truly immersive and memorable experience. The process highlights the skill of the distiller in extracting and preserving the tea’s complex flavors, rather than simply masking them with added ingredients. This isn’t a quick fix; it’s a deliberate and complex approach that rewards careful consideration.
Where to Find It: A Spirit Worth Seeking Out
If you’re looking for a spirit that’s anything but ordinary, State Line Distillery’s smoked gin is definitely worth seeking out. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience. From the captivating aroma to the layered flavor, this spirit challenges preconceptions about gin and introduces a new dimension of complexity. Embrace the unexpected and discover a new favorite among the growing ranks of craft spirits. Look for it at select retailers and tasting rooms across Wisconsin, and be prepared to be surprised – and delighted.
