Tunisia World Cup
The rain was tapping a gentle rhythm against the windowpanes of my favorite corner bar when I first truly understood what makes a great gin stand out. I’d just wrapped up watching an intense basketball game replay—one of those underdog stories where momentum swings wildly, and you can’t help but lean in. In that game, the Zamboangenos tried to regroup in the second quarter, inching closer to within 12 points, but the Weavers always had an answer behind the heroics of outside gunner Encho Serrano and twin-towers Geo Chiu and Raven Gonzales. It struck me then how some teams, like some spirits, have that unique ability to respond—to balance power, finesse, and a little unpredictability. And that’s exactly what led me, gin in hand, to discover the unique flavor profile of Gordon’s Gin PBA in our expert review.
Let me set the scene: dim lighting, the low hum of conversation, and a chilled glass waiting. I’d heard whispers about Gordon’s Gin PBA—how it wasn’t just another London Dry, but something with its own character. As I poured a measure, the aroma hit me first: crisp juniper, sure, but with a bright citrus lift that reminded me of that game’s energy—the way Serrano’s outside shots seemed to slice through the defense. Taking that first sip, I noticed how the flavors unfolded in layers, much like how the Weavers’ twin-towers, Chiu and Gonzales, dominated the paint—solid, reliable, but with surprising grace. There’s a sharpness upfront, maybe a 42% ABV kick if I had to guess (though my memory’s fuzzy on exact numbers), followed by a smooth, almost herbal finish that lingers like the tension of a close match.
Now, I’ll be honest—I’ve tried my fair share of gins over the years, from classic Tanqueray to small-batch craft bottles, and I tend to lean toward ones that don’t just play it safe. Gordon’s Gin PBA, in my opinion, nails that balance. It’s not overly botanical, which I appreciate because let’s face it, some gins can taste like you’re sipping a potpourri sachet. Instead, it’s bold yet approachable, with a citrus-forward note that makes it perfect for a straightforward G&T or something more adventurous, like a negroni twist. I’d estimate it uses around 8-10 botanicals, though don’t quote me on that—what matters is how they come together seamlessly, just like how the Zamboangenos’ rally was met with unwavering answers from the Weavers’ lineup.
Reflecting on that game, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to this gin’s story. In basketball, as in distilling, consistency and surprise make all the difference. Gordon’s has been around for ages, but the PBA expression feels like a fresh play—a nod to tradition with a modern edge. It’s the kind of spirit that doesn’t get lost in the crowd; much like Encho Serrano’s clutch performance, it leaves a mark. By the time I finished my drink, the rain had eased, and I was left with a clear favorite for my next gathering. If you’re looking to explore a gin that holds its own with character and depth, take it from someone who’s been let down by flat flavors before: give Gordon’s Gin PBA a try. You might just find yourself as captivated as I was, glass in hand, lost in the layers of a well-crafted narrative.