This is the 5th episode of “Made in China“, by Monsieur Baozi.
The idea? Highlighting products that are 100% Chinese crafted, because I believe there is so much to talk about.
This 5th episode is about Dragon’s Blood Gin, a mysterious and unique product crafted in Inner-Mongolia by a passionate. 

If you are interested in getting this product, push me an email (monsieurbaozi@gmail.com) I will help you.

Company profile

Behind the brand: Daniel Brooker
Titles: Chef, Gin maker
Working place: Chifeng, Inner Mongolia

Gin Specifications: a column distilled gin, finished with cold compounding method with specific botanical

• For Dragon’s Blood: Juniper berries, Mongolian mountain pepper, gold rosebuds, coriander, orange peel, yuzu
• For Gold Dragon: Juniper & Mongolian Orchid, then aged in oak barrels for 12 months.

Daniel is first and foremost a Chef, with 20 years of experience, including a decade in China. Taste is dear to him, and as he says himself: Whether it’s about making Gin or sourdough bread, the approach is the same: technique, patience, love of taste.

It can be said that Dragon’s Blood and Gold Dragon are two Gins that do not lack character. 
Each, in their way, reflects a part of their creator’s personality: a rough, wild side, but at the same time subtle, and sometimes intriguing. 

These characteristics are found even in the careful packaging: a beautiful and simple bottle, adorned with an elegant label on which we can read 龙(long), meaning Dragon in Chinese. 
The bottles are then sealed with wax, by hand, bringing a personal finish.

If Daniel’s inspiration takes roots in New-Zealand, where he comes from, the brand assumes a Chinese and especially Inner-Mongolian identitywith botanicals sourced all over the country, and specific branding.

Indeed, everyone is aware of the importance and positive image Dragons have in Chinese culture: power and fortune symbols, often chosen to represent the Emperor’s strength in the past. 

Chifeng is also an important city of “HongShan Culture“, in which dragons had an important place, several thousand years ago.

Product tasting

I tested the Gins from many angles. Particularly aromatic, I like them both in classic cocktails, as “on the rocks”. 

01. Negroni: best with Dragon’s blood

The Negroni is a great Cocktail for an aperitif. A refreshing balance of sweet/bitter notes.

02.Gin Sour: Best with Gold Dragon

Daniel had sworn to me that “Sours” (cocktails made with lemon juice and sugar) worked admirably with his Dragon’s Gold: and he was not wrong! 
The woody notes of this Gin aged in oak barrels bring relief to this electric cocktail.

03. G&T: Best with Dragon’s blood

Nothing beats a good Gin & Tonic. As for myself, I add rosemary leaf, a lemon zest and some juniper berries.

04. On the rocks: Best with Gold Dragon

With its ageing in oak barrels, Gold Dragon has traded some of its youthful power, for an elegant woody side which is appreciated pure, over a large ice cube.

Conclusion

Adding this Gin to my shelf was quite enjoyable. 

It is a unique product with a solid personality, which took years of research and shaping that to satisfy its founder. 

The two editions available, although having an apparent similarity, really stand out in their way: a Dragon’s Blood that is easier to drink in simple cocktails, and a more subtle Gold Dragon, with some time bassed in barrels.

Behind the brand, I found a passionate man who in his way contributes to enhancing Chinese craft scene.