Whitley Neill Protea Gin
Whitley Neill · City of London Distillery (bottled by Halewood Artisanal Spirits)
Whitley Neill's Protea expression leans into the floral end of the gin spectrum without losing its juniper credentials. The South African protea flower inspiration gives it a distinctive identity, and the restrained botanicals make it versatile for mixing or sipping. A gin that rewards those who appreciate fragrance as flavor.
Nose
Immediately floral, with rose and violet at the forefront, followed by a soft, almost powdery orris root quality. Juniper is present but restrained, lending an herbal spine rather than dominating.
Palate
The palate opens with delicate lavender and a citrusy lift — lemon peel and a hint of grapefruit. Coriander seed adds gentle warmth midpalate, and the floral character from the nose carries through without becoming soapy. The texture is silky and medium-bodied.
Finish
Clean and moderately long, with a lingering violet note and a whisper of peppery spice.
- Style
- Flavoured/Floral Gin
- Botanicals
- Juniper, coriander, angelica root, orris root, lemon peel, protea-inspired florals, lavender, rose petals
- Base Spirit
- Neutral grain spirit
- Distillation
- Pot distilled
Cocktail Suggestion
Protea Spritz — 1.5 oz Whitley Neill Protea Gin · 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur · 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice · 2 oz dry prosecco · Build gin, liqueur, and lemon in a wine glass over ice, top with prosecco, garnish with edible flower.
Food Pairing
Buttery lavender shortbread cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar complement the gin's floral character and provide a textural contrast to its crisp finish.
Johnny Neill, eighth-generation descendant of the Greenall Whitley distilling dynasty, created this gin to honor his wife's South African roots, using protea-inspired botanicals alongside classic London dry building blocks.
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