Gin XII, the perfect blend of 12 plants and spices

Distillation stages

The process of making Gin XII is a precise art, combining tradition and innovation. This Provençal gin is carefully created in our artisan distillery in Forcalquier (link to the distillery page). Each stage is meticulously carried out to preserve the quality and authenticity of this product and its exceptional flavours:

• Selecting the ingredients for Gin XII: The first step is to select the 12 plants and spices, paying particular attention to the wild juniper berries. Each ingredient used to make Gin XII is chosen for its unique aromatic qualities.

• Maceration: The collected plants and spices are macerated in high-quality neutral alcohol. There are 2 stages of maceration: the first, during which 8 plants and spices are macerated together in alcohol (juniper berries, coriander seeds, sweet almond, thyme, maniguette seeds, angelica roots, Florence iris roots, cardamom seeds). The other 4 plants are then macerated individually in alcohol (basil, rosemary, eucalyptus, mint). These 2 stages allow the aromas of each plant to be released.

• Distillation: These 8 plants and spices are then distilled all together and the other 4 plants are distilled individually. These 5 distillates are then blended. All these distillations are carried out in a column still with copper plates, to develop more balance and finesse in the flavours and extract the aromas that make up the distinctive character of Gin XII.

• Resting time for the distillates : After the different distillates have been blended, this is a crucial stage in balancing the flavours and delivering Gin XII's unique aromatic palette.

• Maturation : Gin XII is then left to rest for a month to allow the flavours to harmonise and develop their full aromatic complexity. This maturation period is essential to ensure the final taste is rich and balanced.

• Bottling: Finally, Gin XII is bottled, ready to be enjoyed by gin lovers the world over.

The importance of Juniper berries

Juniper berries play an essential role in the composition of gin, adding a unique and essential touch to any quality gin, especially Gin XII.

• Characteristic aroma: Juniper berries give gin its distinctive aroma, both fresh and resinous, with woody and slightly peppery notes. This aromatic signature is what makes gin instantly recognisable among other spirits.

• Flavour base: In Gin XII, juniper berries form the base on which the other botanicals and spices build. They balance the fresh, mentholated, peppery and floral aromas of the other ingredients, creating a symphony of flavours.

• Origin and quality: The juniper berries used in Gin XII are carefully selected for their exceptional quality. Partly wild-harvested in our region, they are chosen for their aromatic intensity and purity, guaranteeing a high-quality end product.

• Role in distillation: During distillation, juniper berries release their essential oils, which are captured in the distillate. These oils contribute to the silky texture and complex flavour profile of the gin.

By focusing on the quality and origin of the juniper berries, Gin XII manages to capture the essence of Provence while respecting the traditions of gin making.

Provençal Gin, a sensory experience

Provençal influences

Gin XII is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of Provence, capturing the essence of this iconic region.

The careful selection of ingredients reflects this connection to the land of Provence. Wild juniper berries, harvested in the hills of Provence, provide a distinctive resinous freshness. They are complemented by a variety of local herbs, such as thyme, rosemary and mint, which add fresh, peppery, woody and camphor notes. Each sip of Gin XII transports tasters to the heart of Provence.

The Forcalquier distillery, birthplace of Gin XII

Located in Forcalquier, in the heart of Provence, the distillery embodies the perfect balance between ancestral know-how (link to know-how page) and innovation to produce an exceptional Provencal gin. Founded in 1898, the distillery has stood the test of time, preserving its traditional techniques while incorporating modern processes to maintain the quality and consistency of its products.

At Distilleries et Domaines de Provence, every stage in the production of Gin XII is carried out with art. The plants and spices used are carefully selected and prepared in our facilities, where tradition meets cutting-edge technology. The stills used for distillation ensure that the aromatic essences are extracted precisely, giving Provence gin its rich, harmonious flavour.

As well as being a production site, our traditional distillery is also a bastion of Provençal culture. We use local ingredients and respect traditional production methods. So GIN XII is a gin that reflects the passion, expertise and authenticity of Provence.

The ingredients of Gin XII

What type of spirit is gin ?

Gin is a distilled spirit, mainly based on neutral alcohol (often derived from cereals) and flavoured mainly with juniper berries. The manufacturing process involves redistilling this alcohol with the botanical ingredients to extract the aromas and flavours. Gin XII is distilled by hand, using a still with trays to obtain a precise extraction of the aromatic essences of the 12 selected plants and spices.

Composition of the gin

Gin XII is a celebration of the botanical diversity of Provence, featuring 12 carefully selected plants and spices, each with its own aromatic signature. This complex composition is what gives Gin XII its distinctive and memorable flavour profile.

• Juniper, the very essence of gin, gives it its resinous, peppery flavour, with woody, fresh and floral notes.
• Coriander gives it its floral aspect and citrus notes.
• Sweet almond gives the gin a vanilla-like sweetness, tinged with bitterness.
• Thyme, emblematic of Provence, adds a powerful woody, peppery and fresh tone.
• Angelica, also known as angel weed, provides a syrupy, woody bitterness.
• Maniguette provides a musky, spicy, fruity and acidic fragrance.
• Iris intensifies the floral dimension of the gin with a hint of violet.
• Cardamom adds a spicy, zesty flavour.
• Rosemary introduces camphorated aromas.
• Basil completes the ensemble with an herbaceous, spicy, aniseed and green bouquet.
• Eucalyptus unfurls its lemony freshness.
• Mint adds a fresh, peppery note.

A Provençal gin with distinctive aromas

The aromas of Gin XII are both varied and complex, offering a rich and unforgettable tasting experience. Each selected ingredient contributes to a unique aromatic signature, capturing the essence of Provence in every drop.

By incorporating these distinctive flavours, Gin XII is positioned as the spirit of choice for refined cocktails and pure tastings, allowing connoisseurs to discover the many facets of this exceptional Provençal gin.

How do you drink Gin XII ?

Gin is an extremely versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a number of ways:

• neat : Tasting Gin XII neat allows you to fully appreciate its aromas and flavours. For the best experience, we recommend serving it slightly chilled.
• On the rocks : Serving gin on the rocks can soften its aromas and make it more refreshing to drink.
• Cocktails (link to cocktails - gin page) : Gin XII is a basic ingredient in many classic and contemporary cocktails. Some popular examples include:
• Gin Tonic : Mix Gin XII with tonic and add a slice of lemon or cucumber.
• Martini : Mix Gin XII with dry vermouth and garnish with an olive or lemon peel.
• Negroni : Mix equal parts Gin XII, red vermouth and Campari, and serve with a slice of orange.
• With aromatic mixes : Gin XII goes well with a variety of aromatic mixes, including fresh herbs (such as basil or rosemary), fruits (such as berries or citrus fruits) and spices (such as cardamom or cinnamon).
• Experimenting with different tasting methods and blends allows you to discover the many facets of Gin XII and appreciate its aromatic complexity.