Whitley Neill Parma Violet Gin
Whitley Neill · Halewood International
Flavoured gins walk a tightrope between novelty and craftsmanship, and Whitley Neill's Parma Violet manages to stay on the right side. The violet is unmistakable but never overwhelming, and the gin fundamentals — juniper, citrus, spice — remain intact. A good option for those who want floral expressiveness without losing the plot.
Nose
Sweet violet dominates the opening, followed by a wave of juniper and a soft citrus undercurrent. Orris root adds powdery depth, and there's a subtle floral complexity beyond the violet — almost like candied rose petals.
Palate
Floral and fragrant without crossing into cloying territory. The juniper backbone remains firm, and lemon zest brightens the violet sweetness. A hint of cassia bark spice provides unexpected structure midpalate.
Finish
Medium length, floral and clean, with juniper reasserting itself at the end. Pleasantly dry despite the violet character.
- Style
- Flavoured Gin
- Botanicals
- Juniper, parma violet, orris root, cassia bark, coriander seeds, angelica, citrus peel
- Base Spirit
- Grain neutral spirit
- Distillation
- Pot distilled with botanicals
Cocktail Suggestion
Violet Spritz — 1.5 oz Whitley Neill Parma Violet Gin · 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc · 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice · Top with prosecco · Build in a wine glass over ice, garnish with a lemon twist and edible violet.
Food Pairing
The gin's violet and floral intensity complements buttery lavender shortbread dusted with icing sugar — the subtle sweetness of the biscuit mirrors the gin's fragrant character without competing.
The Whitley Neill range, developed by Johnny Neill — an eighth-generation descendant of the Greenall distilling dynasty — explores global botanicals through a distinctly British lens, distilling at the City of Birmingham Distillery.
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