Hoos London Gin. London Gin from Karlsruhe with 15 botanicals, strong juniper, and 44.4% vol.
Hoos London Gin is a classic gin from Karlsruhe, distilled by Heiko Hoos according to the London Gin method. The 500-ml bottle contains 44.4% vol and 15 botanicals, led by juniper and pine sprouts.
London Gin by Hoos begins with a decision. In 2013, Heiko Hoos no longer wanted to choose between classic and modern when it came to gin, so he started distilling himself. The result is a gin that consciously adheres to the old school. The designation refers to a method of production, not a statement of origin. The aromas are derived from distillation with plant-based ingredients; after that, practically only water may be added. Such a gin is therefore never colored or subsequently flavored. The result is clear in the glass and clear in taste. Hoos distills slowly and bottles in small batches of 120 bottles. Those who like to know who is behind a bottle will find here a distiller with a name and address in Karlsruhe.
Taste
Hoos Gin smells like a forest. The producer describes it himself: "A gin like a walk in the woods." The nose catches resinous pine buds and strong juniper, accompanied by floral lavender and fresh chamomile. The juniper is at the front, as is fitting for a classic gin.
The palate reveals the entire list of herbs. Coriander and cardamom seeds provide warmth, while cubeb pepper and mace add a slightly peppery, dark layer. Marjoram and lemon balm give a green, spicy note. Lemon and orange peel as well as orange blossoms keep the whole thing bright. Angelica and sweet fennel round off the gin and provide structure.
At 44.4% vol, it is strong, but the aromas carry it well. Anyone looking for a soft, fruity-sweet gin will find it too tart. For those who like juniper, that is exactly the point.
Usage
This gin belongs in classic drinks. In a Gin and Tonic, a dry tonic water allows the juniper and forest notes to shine through. Plenty of ice belongs in the glass so that the drink stays cold and dilutes slowly. A sprig of rosemary or a strip of orange peel makes for a suitable garnish, both picking up on aromas from the list of herbs.
It also cuts a fine figure in a Martini. Gin and dry vermouth are stirred over ice and strained into a pre-chilled glass. Serve with an olive or a lemon twist. For a Negroni, combine equal parts gin, red vermouth, and a bitter liqueur. It is best to try it neat first at room temperature in a small glass, then with an ice cube.
Regarding labeling: Sale only to persons 18 years and older. The manufacturer does not publish information on allergens; the label on the bottle is the authoritative source.
Our tip: Add a small sprig of fresh pine or rosemary to your Gin and Tonic. This brings out the forest note that defines this gin.
Origin
Behind this bottle is a single person. Heiko Hoos distills his gin in Karlsruhe and handles marketing and distribution himself, without investors or support from the spirits industry. He designed the bottle himself. The bottle is intentionally simple and dark. Effort and love should go into the product, as he says himself.
In 2020, the producer spoke of "one-man distillate" in four varieties, plus his own vermouth. The classic gin is the base from which the other varieties originate. According to his own statements, his philosophy also includes a fair price. Hoos calls this small batch, "in the truest sense."
For whom
This gin is for everyone who wants to taste juniper in their glass and enjoys classic drinks. It belongs in the home bar of people who like to mix their own Gin and Tonic. As a gift, it delights gin fans who haven't yet put Karlsruhe on their map. If you want to get to know it first, try the London Gin in the 200-ml bottle. Both fruitier and more tart at the same time is the Pink Grapefruit Gin Liqueur on the same base. You can find all bottles on our Hoos page. It is not suitable for those looking for a sweet, floral gin for cocktails with a lot of juice.
One distiller, 15 botanicals, 120 bottles per batch – the juniper gin from Karlsruhe for classic drinks.
