Star Anise: The Exotic Spice Adding Flair to Scottish Gin

With its distinctive star-shaped pods and liquorice-like flavour, Star anise has become an increasingly popular botanical in Scottish gin. This aromatic spice adds a touch of exotic flair to Scotland's booming gin industry. Let's explore how star anise is making its mark on Scottish gin and why it's become a favourite among distillers and gin enthusiasts.

What is Star Anise?

Star anise (Illicium verum) is the fruit of an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Its eight-pointed star shape makes it instantly recognisable, while its intense, sweet-liquorice flavour profile sets it apart from other spices. Traditionally used in Chinese cooking and medicine, star anise has found a new home in craft spirits, particularly gin.

Star Anise in Scottish Gin

Scottish gin makers have embraced star anise as a key botanical in their recipes, adding depth and complexity to their spirits. Here's why star anise works so well in Scottish gin:

1. Complementary Flavors: Star anise’s liquorice notes pair beautifully with traditional gin botanicals like juniper and coriander.
2. Aromatic Impact: Star anise provides a robust and distinctive aroma that enhances the overall sensory experience of gin.
3. Visual Appeal: The star-shaped pods make attractive garnishes, adding visual interest to gin cocktails.

Famous Scottish Gins Featuring Star Anise

Several Scottish gin brands have incorporated star anise into their recipes:

• Darnley's Spiced Gin: This contemporary gin features star anise among its ten botanicals, contributing to its warm, spicy profile.
• Isle of Coll Distillery—Hebridean Gin: This small-batch gin contains star anise, which adds notes of cinnamon to its flavor profile.
• Rutland Square Chai Spiced Scottish Gin: Star anise is one of the essential botanicals in this chai-inspired gin, creating a unique fusion of Scottish and Indian flavours.

Star Anise in Gin Cocktails

Star anise isn't just for distilling – it's also a popular ingredient in gin cocktails. The Ginger, Star Anise and Orange Gin and Tonic are prime examples of how this spice can elevate a classic liquorice-like flavouring. The warmth of star anise complements the ginger and orange, creating a complex and refreshing cocktail.

As Scottish gin continues to innovate and experiment with new flavors, star anise is likely to remain a popular choice among distillers. Its versatility and distinctive flavour profile make it an excellent botanical for creating unique and memorable gins. Whether you're a gin enflavoursthusiast or a curious newcomer, watch for Scottish gins featuring star anise. This exotic spice is helping to write a new chapter in Scotland's rich distilling history, proving that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully in the world of spirits.