The Foundation: Wheat as the Base Spirit
For many, the first thought when considering the ingredients of a spirit like gin is its botanical profile. However, before the juniper and other herbs are added, every gin begins with a base neutral spirit. In the case of Hendrick's, this foundation is a high-quality, neutral grain spirit made from wheat. While a number of base materials can be used for spirits, such as barley, corn, potatoes, or grapes, wheat is a common choice for gin producers. This provides a clean, neutral canvas that allows the subsequent botanical flavors to shine through without being masked by the character of the base fermentable.
The Unique Distillation Process: Two Stills, One Unusual Gin
What truly sets Hendrick's Gin apart is not its base spirit but the highly unusual and inefficient, yet glorious, method of distillation. The process involves two completely different, antique stills: a Bennett pot still and a rare Carter-Head still.
- The Bennett still is an old-fashioned copper pot still that steeps the botanicals in the base spirit overnight before distillation. This method results in a rich, oily, and intricate spirit.
- The Carter-Head still, which dates to 1948 and is one of only a handful in existence, uses a different technique. The more delicate botanicals are placed in a copper basket atop the still, and the alcohol vapor passes through them, gently steaming the ingredients. This creates a lighter, more refined, and delicate spirit.
Master Distiller Lesley Gracie then marries the two distinct distillates, in roughly equal proportions, to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and character. The resulting liquid possesses a complexity that could not be achieved with a single distillation method.
A Symphony of Botanicals
Beyond the base spirit and the unique double distillation, Hendrick's is known for its remarkable botanical signature. While all gins must feature juniper as the predominant flavor, Hendrick's uses an unusual symphony of 11 botanicals in the still, and famously infuses rose and cucumber after distillation.
The 11 botanicals include:
- Juniper
- Angelica root
- Caraway seeds
- Chamomile
- Coriander seeds
- Cubeb berries
- Elderflower
- Lemon peel
- Orange peel
- Orris root
- Yarrow
It is the final, curious infusion of essences of Bulgarian rose petals and Dutch cucumbers, added after distillation, that truly defines the gin's iconic flavor and aroma profile. This post-distillation process prevents the delicate rose and cucumber notes from being destroyed by heat, ensuring their subtle character remains intact.
Is Hendricks Gin Gluten-Free? The Science Behind Distillation
Given its wheat base, a common question is whether Hendrick's Gin is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The answer, as confirmed directly by the brand, is yes. The key lies in the distillation process.
Distillation works by heating the fermented liquid to a point where the alcohol and other volatile compounds turn into vapor, leaving behind heavier, non-volatile components. Gluten proteins are large, non-volatile molecules that do not evaporate and are therefore left behind in the distillation still. The resulting pure spirit, regardless of its original base material, is free of gluten. The final product is simply the vapor that has been condensed and collected, ensuring it is safe for consumption by those avoiding gluten.
Comparison Table: Hendrick's vs. Other Popular Gins
| Feature | Hendrick's Gin | Beefeater London Dry Gin | Tanqueray London Dry Gin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Base Spirit | Wheat | Grain (typically wheat, corn, or rye) | Grain (neutral spirit) |
| Distillation Method | Two separate spirits (Bennett pot still and Carter-Head still) are blended together. | A neutral grain spirit is redistilled with botanicals steeped in the liquid for 24 hours. | Four botanicals are distilled twice in a neutral grain spirit. |
| Signature Botanicals | Juniper, coriander, citrus peels, plus post-distillation infusions of rose and cucumber. | Juniper, lemon peel, Seville orange peel, coriander, and almond. | Prominent juniper, coriander, angelica root, and liquorice. |
| Post-Distillation Infusions | Yes, rose and cucumber essences are infused after distillation. | No, a defining characteristic of London Dry is that all flavor comes from distillation. | No, all flavoring occurs during distillation. |
| Gluten-Free Status | Yes, confirmed by the brand. | Yes, confirmed by industry standards. | Yes, confirmed by industry standards. |
The Complete Journey: From Wheat to Unusual Infusion
The story of Hendrick's Gin is a testament to the artistry and precision of distillation. It begins with a seemingly conventional ingredient—wheat—that is transformed into a pure, neutral spirit. This spirit then undergoes a uniquely eccentric process involving two dissimilar stills, each contributing a different character to the final liquid. Finally, the gin is elevated by the trademark post-distillation infusion of delicate rose and cucumber, creating the distinctive and much-loved flavor profile.
This meticulous process ensures that the finished product, while starting with a wheat base, is safe for those requiring a gluten-free option, as the gluten proteins are eliminated during the distillation phase. The journey from grain to glass is a carefully orchestrated sequence of traditional and innovative techniques, culminating in a gin that is truly unusual and exceptionally refreshing.
Learn more about Hendrick's unique distillation process on their official site.
