Upendo Gin
Brennevinsgrova Upendo Gin is a unique journey of taste between Sunnmøre and Zanzibar. The name "Upendo" means love in Swahili, and the gin is created through a close collaboration between Brennevinsgrova and Nils Henning Nesje from Nesjemat. The result is a gin that challenges the traditional expression and offers a completely unique citrus character, without being based on the usual citrus fruits.
What makes Upendo special is the use of fresh spices and botanicals from Zanzibar. Cinnamon leaves, cinnamon bark, nutmeg, cardamom, lime leaves and orange blossom create a complex and aromatic flavour profile where warm spices meet fresh, citrusy notes. Juniper berries form a classic foundation at the base, while orange blossom ties the flavours together into a harmonious whole.
The gin is distilled at Brennevinsgrova in Sykkylven, where the soft mountain water from Sunnmøre plays an important role. The pure and mineral-poor water highlights the fine aromas of the spices and gives the gin a soft and round mouthfeel. In the glass you encounter aromas of juniper, warm spices and fresh citrus, while the taste is full, balanced and long with an elegant finish.
Upendo Gin is a gin for those who want to discover something new. A modern craft gin where African spice traditions meet Sunnmøre's art of distillation. Equally good neat or over ice, and an exciting starting point for a gin & tonic or creative cocktails.
Upendo gin sour
A tart and silky drink that is easy to make, but very impressive.
Ingredients
5 cl Brennevinsgrova Upendo gin
3 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cl sugar syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
1 egg white (makes a velvety foam)
Ice cubes
This is what you need
Shaker
Strain
Cocktail glass
Approach
1) Put all ingredients in a shaker without ice
2) Shake hard for about 10 seconds (called “dry shake”)
3) Add ice and shake again for about 10–15 seconds
4) Strain the drink into a chilled glass (preferably coupe or rocks)
5) Garnish with dried lemon slice
