1 | Spirits | Page 10

Using only the best winter wheat from Moldovia’s rolling hills adjacent to the Black Sea, Firestarter Vodka comes west bringing tradition and world class smoothness born from a brilliant 19th century recipe.

"Clear. Polished aromas of fresh citrus, herbal juniper, flower petal and cucumber follow through on bright, silky entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body with violet, lavender, and pink peppercorn notes resonating brightly. Finishes with a delicate sweet citrus custard pastry, spice, potpourri, and mineral fade all in fine balance. A delightfully fruity, floral nouveau gin for artisan cocktails."

"The complex bouquet contains rich malt and fruity aromas with just a hint of peatiness. The palate is rewarded with a unique combination of attractive flavours – a balance of apples, pears and malt, with a gentle hint of nuttiness enhanced by the subtle use of sherry wood. The result is a wonderfully rich and elegant taste producing a long and satisfying finish."

"Vibrant aromas of elderflower and lychee follow through on a soft, supple entry to a fruity, moderately sweet medium-to-full body with tangy tropical fruit sweetness and great depth. Finishes with a long, graceful, herb accented fade. An instant classic and pure magic for cocktails."

"The aromatic profile is assertive yet welcoming, sweetish yet cereal dry, and oaky yet floral and a touch briny; the quintessential 12-year-old malt bouquet. In the mouth, the integrated flavors come in waves of toasted walnut, dark caramel, toasted marshmallow and barely perceptible seaweed." 96-100 pts.