Scapegrace Black Gin Small Batch

The Scapegrace Black Gin (Small Batch) is a bold and inventive twist on the classic gin foundation—rich in juniper character but lifted by a unique botanical blend that yields dramatic colour and flavour transformation. With its naturally black hue that shifts to purple-pink when tonic is added, it’s as theatrical as it is sophisticated—great for both elevated cocktails and sipping neat with purpose.

Origins & Craftsmanship
This expression is crafted at Scapegrace Distillery in New Zealand, using their signature grain-neutral base spirit and glacier-melt water from the Southern Alps. The gin is infused with striking botanicals including aronia berry, saffron, pineapple, and New Zealand sweet potato (kumera) which provide its distinctive dark colour and layered flavour profile. The small-batch production adds a sense of artisan care while retaining the strength of a premium craft gin.

Critics Reviews

• The gin earned a Gold medal at the 2022 Global Gin Masters, underlying its high calibre in global competition.

• A spirits retailer describes it as: “Naturally black from the colour and flavour of botanical extracts…. On the palate it is full-bodied, chilling with a candied sweet potato and pineapple finish, the mouth feel is luxurious, velvety and ridiculously delicious.”

• Further commentary highlights the signature serve: 50 ml of the gin topped with premium tonic water and a slice of green apple—at which point the liquid transforms from black to vibrant purple-pink, adding theatrical flair alongside flavour.

Tasting Profile

• Nose: A strong juniper backbone with resinous pine and dry earthy notes, overlaid by subtle tropical sweetness—pineapple and saffron threads emerge.

• Palate: Medium-full body with crisp citrus undertones, a gentle spice lift (cardamom/angelica root), balanced by the unusual sweet potato and aronia berry botanicals which add richness without cloying.

• Finish: Smooth, velvety and long; the lingering flavours of candied sweet potato, fresh pineapple, licorice root and soft juniper resin combine, leaving the citrus and herbal edge to carry the drink across the palate.

Quick Overview