Borneogoat wrote:Thanks Fishws, I just got back from the spice store and am getting excited! So every 40mins or so, just throw the still into full reflux and swap the goodies. I can handle that.
Apparently Biosecurity TAS makes getting grains of paradise difficult. I took a wild stab and grabbed some native pepper berries to sub. Anyone tried this? I know some of the local pro's use them, but no idea how much....
Yep, pepper berries will work, I have used them. Take 5 or 6 and give them a quick grind in a pestle and mortar. I have ordered grains of paradise into WA from a NSW herb and spice shop and there was no problem. Not sure if you can do that into Tassie.
Remember too, that you should blend the results of each botanical basket together as the flavours change through the run - light florals and citrus first, followed by the woodier stuff later in the run. The sum of the parts of one botanical basket make up a balanced gin.
Enjoy your run and your gin. Your first time will be a real experience and you'll be amazed at what comes out of the parrot. I did one run on the kit you have and had so much fun that I immediately went out and ordered a Carter Head from Mac.
Fish