
Sipsmith V.J.O.P. (Very Junipery Over Proof)
Sipsmith Distillery (Beam Suntory) · Sipsmith Distillery, Chiswick, London
Sipsmith V.J.O.P. triples the juniper bill of the standard Sipsmith London Dry and introduces juniper at three distinct stages of distillation. The most uncompromising London Dry under fifty dollars.
Nose
Juniper first, juniper second, juniper third — pine resin, crushed cone, and green herbaceous notes dominate.
Palate
Bold and assertive. Pine-forward juniper fills the palate, followed by citrus oil, warm coriander, and a low hum of cassia spice.
Finish
Long, dry, and piney. Juniper resin persists with a final lift of citrus.
- Botanicals
- Juniper (three stages: macerated, vapor-infused, boiled), Coriander, Angelica, Orris Root, Licorice Root, Cassia Bark, Cinnamon, Sweet & Bitter Orange, Lemon Peel, Almond
- Base Spirit
- Wheat grain neutral spirit
- Distillation
- Single-shot copper pot still distillation in 'Prudence,' 'Patience,' and 'Constance'
Cocktail Suggestion
The VJOP Martini: Stir 2.5 oz Sipsmith V.J.O.P. with 0.5 oz dry vermouth, strain into frozen coupe, lemon twist.
Food Pairing
Oysters on the half shell.
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