Exceptional Dry Gin

Exceptional Dry Gin defines what it means to craft a premium Portuguese spirit, combining precision, passion, and unwavering dedication to quality.

Exceptional Dry Gin is a premium Portuguese spirit crafted with precision, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Production Method

Exceptional Dry Gin is more than a delicious drink, it’s the result of vision, craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. Born from the ambition and entrepreneurial spirit of Elsa Sousa and Luís Almeida, the gin was created to fill a gap they identified in the market: a truly natural, handcrafted gin made with purity and purpose.

Crafted in full accordance with good manufacturing practices and under strict H.A.C.C.P. control, Exceptional Dry Gin reflects both care and technical mastery. The production starts with a selection of botanicals macerated in alcohol at 50% ABV. This alcohol is uniquely produced from cereals, with rice making up around 85% of the base and wheat about 15%. This choice results in an exceptionally smooth foundation that distinguishes the gin from those based solely on grain or molasses.

After maceration in a carefully controlled environment, the remaining botanicals are gently infused and distilled in a 50-liter copper still at 90°C. Each still is equipped with a 6-level glass reflux column, forcing the alcohol to vaporize and recondense at every level. This method produces a highly pure distillate that exits the still at approximately 94–95% ABV (measured at 20°C), free from methanol and exceptionally clean on the palate.

The distillery itself is nestled in the traditional Beira-Mar district of Aveiro, Portugal, a coastal town rich in history and natural charm. It’s compact, at around 70 square meters, but thoughtfully equipped for maximum efficiency and quality control. Visitors are welcomed to witness the process first-hand, making it not just a production space, but a place of transparency, curiosity, and connection.

Key Botanicals

Exceptional Dry Gin combines both classic and unexpected ingredients to create a truly layered and memorable flavor profile. Among the 28 botanicals used, you’ll find:

• Lemongrass

• Lavender

• Carqueja (a traditional Iberian herb)

• Hibiscus

• Bay leaf

• Azores pineapple

• Algarve orange

• Lime

• Samphire (Salicornia)

• Star anise

• Coriander seed

• Ginger

• Tonka bean

• Goji berries

• Madagascar cinnamon

• Black cardamom

• Juniper berries

• Camellia flower

• Acacia flower

• Long-stemmed seaweed (Botelho Comprido)

Each botanical is chosen not just for its individual character, but for its ability to harmonize within the broader blend, resulting in a gin that is balanced, complex, and uniquely expressive.

Tasting Notes

This gin offers a fresh and mineral-forward character right from the first impression. On the nose, vibrant citrus notes of orange lead the way, supported by subtle floral undertones that bring both brightness and elegance.

The palate is smooth, enveloping, and luxuriously velvety. Gentle hints of vanilla and ripe fruit emerge gradually, adding warmth and depth. The finish is long, refined, and ever so slightly spicy, with botanicals that linger gracefully and leave a lasting impression.

Sustainability & Future Plans

Exceptional Dry Gin isn’t just about flavor, it’s also a reflection of values. The distillery operates with a strong focus on sustainability, using water-reuse systems and small-scale, low-impact production methods. With growing national and international recognition, the brand is steadily expanding while staying true to its artisanal roots. Each bottle represents not only tradition and innovation, but also a promise to continue crafting excellence, one small batch at a time.

Each sip tells the story of Exceptional Dry Gin, pure, precise, and proudly Portuguese.