Echo Spirits Distilling Company Genever Spirit Review.
I received this spirit as a review sample from Echo Spirits Distilling Company, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.
Every once in a while, a bottle comes across the radar that makes you stop mid-scroll. That was the case with Genever from Echo Spirits Distilling Company. Based in Columbus, the distillery is known for producing and aging some of its own spirits while being transparent about sourced products, something I always appreciate. When I saw a Dutch-inspired genever-style spirit made from malt whiskey instead of neutral grain, I knew I had to try it. As someone who enjoys gin, herbal liqueurs, and botanical-forward spirits, this felt like it was right in my wheelhouse.
Genever is inspired by traditional Dutch Genever, a category that predates modern gin. Instead of starting with a neutral grain spirit, this expression uses a malt whiskey base and layers botanicals into it. The result is something gin-adjacent, but with more body and depth from the malt.
Age Statement: Unaged.
ABV: 37.5%.
Mash bill: N/A.
Area of Distillation: Columbus, Ohio.
Appearance: Nearly clear with a whisper of pale yellow
On the nose:
On the nose:
The malt character shows up immediately. There is a soft grain sweetness that sets the foundation before the botanicals begin to unfold. Caraway seed stands out early, followed by a floral freshness that leans slightly lavender-like without fully committing to it. There is a light peppermint note that reminds me of crushed peppermint discs, with a gentle chalky sweetness.
Hints of thyme and a delicate licorice note weave through the profile. There is also a woody earthiness that is hard to pin down but adds complexity. No harshness, no ethanol burn. Just clean, herbal, and intriguing aromatics.
Taste:
The sip is soft and beautifully balanced. Sweet malt rolls across the tongue first, followed by earthy botanicals and gentle spice. Caraway and thyme reappear clearly, with a subtle licorice thread running underneath. As it lingers, a light dill note begins to emerge.
It drinks exceptionally easy, almost like an aperitif. The texture is supple and easygoing, making it incredibly approachable. It brings to mind some of the more experimental botanical spirits from St. George Spirits, but this stands firmly in its own lane.
Finish:
The finish is soft, herbal, and lightly sweet. It fades gently with lingering malt and earthy botanicals. There is a clean freshness that makes you want to go back for another sip.
Final Thoughts:
This is one of the most interesting and unique botanical spirits I have had in quite some time. It feels like a bridge between malt whiskey and gin, yet it is distinctly its own thing. At under $40, it offers real value for something this creative. I would personally love to see a slightly higher proof version, especially for cocktail experimentation. That said, it sips beautifully neat and could easily function as an aperitif-style pour. It would also make for a fascinating martini-style cocktail swap in place of gin.
If you are a gin fan, a botanical enthusiast, or someone looking to explore outside traditional whiskey categories, this is absolutely worth tracking down.
Rating: -A (Amazing).
Cost: $38.99 for 750ml.
For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/RyCifx344o0.
Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt.
Learn more about Echo Spirits Distilling Company via the link here: https://echospirits.com.
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