Spirit

Copeland Jones 1778 Navy Strength Gin

Copeland Jones 1778 Navy Strength Gin is a distinctive Irish gin crafted with a nod to history and a commitment to quality. This spirit honors the legacy of Captain John Paul Jones, a celebrated figure of the American Revolutionary War, known for his naval victories. The gin is not only a tribute to his maritime feats, but also encapsulates the adventurous spirit of the 18th century, when sailors craved bold flavors and high-proof spirits. Made in Donaghadee, County Down, Northern Ireland, this gin exemplifies a modern interpretation of traditional naval strength gins that were favored for their potency and vibrant flavor profiles. With a captivating blend of 12 botanicals that include juniper, pine needles, cubeb berries, orange peel, and lemon peel, the craftsmanship behind Copeland Jones aims to produce a harmonious yet robust flavor that reflects the rich Irish coastal landscape. Each botanical is meticulously selected to ensure a balance that is both refreshing and complex, appealing to purists and adventurous drinkers alike.

ABV

Introduction

Tasting Notes

Copeland Jones 1778 Navy Strength Gin presents a bold and audacious flavor profile with an alcohol content of 57% ABV that delivers an intense aromatic experience. On the nose, expect a vibrant bouquet of juniper, complemented by pine and herbaceous notes, intermingled with the citrus brightness of orange and lemon peel. Upon tasting, the gin unveils a complex palate where the traditional richness of juniper is met with the smooth sweet undertones of caramel and subtle hints of spice, likely attributed to its careful aging process. The oak from the bourbon casks imparts a gentle warmth and depth, while the sherry cask finish adds a nuanced layer of dried fruit and nut characteristics. The mouthfeel is robust and full-bodied, leaving a lingering, savory spice finish that beckons the drinker back for another sip.

History

The history of Copeland Jones 1778 Navy Strength Gin is deeply intertwined with the legacy of John Paul Jones, who is often referred to as the 'Father of the American Navy.' The gin was conceived to celebrate his remarkable leadership during the Revolutionary War and his significant contributions to naval warfare. The spirit was created as a tribute to the Battle of the Copelands, symbolizing bravery and resilience on the high seas. This gin is emblematic of a bygone era, capturing the essence of naval tradition where spirits served as both a source of sustenance and a morale booster for sailors. The infusion of Kentucky Bourbon and Oloroso sherry cask aging is a modern homage to this rich history, melding different cultures of distillation that speak to the spirit's diverse influences.

Fabrication Process

The production of Copeland Jones 1778 Navy Strength Gin begins with the selection of high-quality grains, which are meticulously mashed and distilled in traditional copper pot stills. During distillation, 12 carefully chosen botanicals are added, with juniper at the forefront, followed by pine needles, cubeb berries, and citrus peels. This blend is designed to extract the maximum flavor and aroma, ensuring that each botanical's essence penetrates the final spirit. Following distillation, the gin undergoes a unique aging process. It is first placed into Kentucky Bourbon casks, where it matures for approximately 120 days. This initial aging imparts notes of vanilla and caramel from the charred wood, enriching the spirit's character. Subsequently, the gin is transferred into Oloroso sherry casks for an additional 20 days. This dual maturation process results in a symphony of flavors that is both complex and harmonious, adding depth and nuance to the spirit. Finally, the gin is bottled at a navy strength of 57% ABV, sealing in its bold essence and ensuring that it meets the high standards inspired by its historical figure.