Gunpowder Gin w/ Sardinian Citrus

Overview

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin “w/ Sardinian Citrus” is a bright and adventurous variation of the acclaimed Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Produced at The Shed Distillery in County Leitrim, Ireland, this edition builds upon the botanical-rich original by incorporating the rare Sardinian citrus fruit known as Citrus mostruosa (Sa Pompia) discovered in Siniscola, Sardinia. The result is an Irish gin whose exotic botanical palette is balanced with a distinctly Mediterranean citrus twist. 

Brewing Process

• Ingredients: The core gin begins with 12 botanicals including juniper berry, angelica root, meadowsweet, caraway seed, star anise, orris root, and coriander seed. Additions include gunpowder green tea (rolled pellets) and citrus botanicals such as kaffir lime, oriental grapefruit, and Sardinian citrus. 

• Distillation Technique: Slow distillation takes place in custom copper pot stills at the Shed Distillery. Botanicals are introduced partly through vapor infusion to safeguard delicate aromatic compounds. 

• Finishing: The distillate is rested and then proofed to 43 % ABV (86-proof) prior to bottling. 

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Crystal-clear with a slight golden glint when swirled, typical of its neutral grain base and precise distillation. 

• Aroma: A mix of fresh juniper and eastern spice, anchored by the verdant bitterness of gunpowder tea. Then a clean burst of Sardinian citrus—lime, grapefruit, and the rare pompia—provides a bright top note. 

• Palate: Crisp and vibrant. Juniper-led foundation with mid-palate green tea tannin and soft sweetness. The Sardinian citrus emerges, offering tart orange and grapefruit zest, followed by a warming spice and herbal finish.

Food & Serving Pairing

Serve this gin well-chilled, either neat or with premium tonic water and a twist of grapefruit or pompia rind. It pairs effortlessly with fresh seasonal seafood (like grilled prawns or ceviche), citrus-dressed salads, and light Mediterranean dishes such as grilled vegetables or ‘nduja crostini. The citrus lift also complements soft goat cheeseboard selections.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed between 6–8 °C (43–46 °F).

• Glassware: A tulip-shaped gin glass or a stemmed copa enhances aromatic concentration and allows the botanicals to unfurl.

• Garnish Suggestion: Use a slice of grapefruit, zest of pompia, or a sprig of mint for added freshness.

Aging Potential

While well-crafted and refined, this gin is intended for immediate enjoyment. With its clean botanical profile and citrus accent, it is best consumed within 2–3 years of bottling to preserve the vibrant expressiveness of the Sardinian citrus.