Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin

 

Here is a comprehensive article about Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin — covering its origins, production, tasting profile, cultural significance, frequently asked questions (Google-style), and a conclusion. I have drawn on all available public sources. (Note: because Corgi Spirits has closed, some details are limited.)

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Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin: A Deep Dive

1. Introduction

Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin is a distinct and atmospheric spirit from the now‑defunct Corgi Spirits distillery (Jersey City, New Jersey). Unlike typical botanical gins, this expression brings a subtle, smoky dimension to the classic gin profile, combining traditional juniper character with smoked applewood notes. The result is a gin evocative of old-school “smoking lounge” sophistication — warm, contemplative, slightly woody, and deeply flavorful.

In an era where craft distilleries often emphasize floral, citrus, or herbal gins, Corgi Smoking Lounge turns in a more moody, autumnal direction. Whether sipped neat, enjoyed over ice, or used in cocktails, this gin stands out for its daring fusion of smoke, botanical elegance, and smooth base spirit.

This article explores:

1. The origin and history of Corgi Spirits
2. The making of Smoking Lounge Gin: ingredients, production
3. Tasting profile: aroma, palate, finish
4. Cultural meaning & design significance
5. Frequently asked questions (“People Also Ask”)
6. Strengths and considerations
7. Community perception
8. Conclusion

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2. Origin & Brand Background

2.1 Corgi Spirits Distillery

• Founding: Corgi Spirits was founded in 2017 by Bob Hagemann, with his parents Bob and Nancy. (caskers.com)
• Location: The distillery was located in Hudson County, New Jersey — the first distillery in that county. (caskers.com)
• Brand Identity: Their branding leans heavily into British influences: the name “Corgi” (the regal dog breed), the crowned corgi in their logo, and a playful-yet-regal spirit. (New Jersey Digest)
• Base Spirit: Corgi gins are made from a potato-based spirit, giving them a smooth, creamy mouthfeel and making them naturally gluten-free. (caskers.com)
• Seasonal & Creative Releases: Corgi produced a variety of gins — core lines (Pembroke, Earl Grey) and seasonal/novelty ones (Very Merry, Bee Blossom, Garden Party, Smoking Lounge). (caskers.com)
• Philosophy: In interviews, Bob Hagemann expressed that gin is “the most versatile spirit out there” — for sipping or in cocktails. (New Jersey Digest)
• Closure: According to several community sources, Corgi Spirits shut down operations around 2023. > “The distillery shut down … this was my last batch I had before cracking it open …” (Reddit)

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3. Production & Ingredients

To understand what gives Smoking Lounge Gin its unique character, here’s how it is made and what botanicals are involved.

3.1 Base Spirit

• The gin uses a potato base spirit, like other Corgi gins. This provides a smoother, richer texture than many grain-based gins. (caskers.com)
• The use of potato distillate aligns with Corgi’s craft ethos and helps the smoke and botanicals integrate more gently.

3.2 Alcohol Content

• Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin is bottled at 86 proof, which corresponds to 43% ABV per Caskers. (caskers.com)
• Flaviar confirms the 43% ABV on their listing. (Flaviar)

3.3 Botanical Composition & Smoke

• Smoke Element: The signature feature is smoked applewood. According to Caskers, the botanicals “get additional smoky notes with a pleasant scent of smoked Applewood.” (caskers.com)
• Botanicals: While Corgi hasn’t published an exhaustive botanical list for Smoking Lounge Gin, other sources cite typical gin botanicals such as juniper, coriander, angelica root, and orris root. (ForWhiskeyLovers.com)
• Herbal & Citrus Notes: The gin also carries herbal and floral elements, as well as citrus, per Caskers. (caskers.com)
• Production Style: This is a small-batch craft gin, made with attention to carefully balancing smoke and botanicals rather than a heavy “smoke bomb.” (Flaviar)

3.4 Seasonality & Inspiration

• Seasonal Spirit: According to Caskers, the Smoking Lounge Gin was developed with autumnal days in mind, though it’s marketed as delightful throughout the year. (caskers.com)
• Inspired by Classic Lounges: The idea behind this gin is to evoke the feel of old-school smoking lounges — places of sophistication, warmth, and conversation. (LoveScotch.com)

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4. Tasting Profile

Here’s a breakdown of what people report when tasting Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin — from opening the bottle to the lingering finish.

4.1 Aroma / Nose

• Smoky Applewood: The dominant scent is that of smoked applewood, giving a warm, woody smoke character. (caskers.com)
• Herbal & Floral Accents: Underneath the smoke, there are herbal and floral notes — a testament to the gin’s botanical backbone. (caskers.com)
• Citrus: A bright citrus note adds lift to the nose, balancing the woody smoke. (caskers.com)
• Classic Juniper: While smoke is front and center, juniper is present, anchoring the aroma in traditional gin territory. (ForWhiskeyLovers.com)

4.2 Palate / Flavor

• Initial Flavor: On the palate, the smoky applewood comes through, but it’s balanced, not overpowering. (Flaviar)
• Botanical Depth: The gin’s herbal botanicals (like angelica, orris, possibly coriander) give it complexity beyond the smoke. (ForWhiskeyLovers.com)
• Citrus & Floral Layers: As you sip, floral or citrus notes emerge, softening the smokiness and adding brightness. (caskers.com)
• Juniper: There is a juniper backbone — but it is not dominant; instead, juniper supports the smoky-herbal profile. (Flaviar)

4.3 Finish

• Gently Smoky: The finish retains a soft, smoky echo — the wood smoke fades beautifully rather than hitting hard. (caskers.com)
• Complex Herbaceous Fade: Herbal notes linger, giving a layered, thoughtful ending rather than a flat burn. (LoveScotch.com)
• Citrus & Flowers: Citrus peel or light floral hints may remain, adding elegance to the aftertaste. (caskers.com)
• Smoothness: Thanks to its base spirit, the texture is smooth and not overly harsh — making the finish pleasant and sippable. (caskers.com)

4.4 Overall Impression

• Balanced Smokiness: The smoke element is well integrated — not gimmicky, but refined.
• Mature Character: This gin is more contemplative and “grown-up” than light botanical gins; it invites slowing down.
• Versatile Drinking: It works neat, on ice, or in more refined, smokey cocktails.
• Craft & Innovation: Reflects Corgi’s spirit of experimentation — combining smoke with a classic gin botanical base.

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5. Cultural & Symbolic Significance

Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin is not just about flavor — it carries symbolic weight in terms of design, brand identity, and the cultural space it inhabits.

5.1 Heritage & Brand Story

• British-Influenced Identity: Corgi Spirits leans on British iconography (corgis, royalty), but they operate in Jersey City. This gin continues that dual identity: refined tradition meets American craft. (New Jersey Digest)
• Distillery Ethos: Bob Hagemann (founder) has spoken about gin’s versatility — and Smoking Lounge Gin is a bold expression of that. (New Jersey Digest)
• First in Hudson County: The distillery was the first of its kind in Hudson County, contributing to local craft spirit culture. (Corgi Spirits)

5.2 Elevated Ambiance: The “Smoking Lounge” Experience

• The name Smoking Lounge is evocative: it suggests leather chairs, wooden paneling, subtle fireside smoke, and late-night conversations.
• The gin’s smoked applewood component symbolizes a bridge between refined tradition (smoking lounges of past decades) and modern craft spirit innovation.
• For drinkers, it offers more than refreshment — it offers atmosphere. Sipping this gin can feel like entering a space of contemplation, warmth, and sophistication.

5.3 Craft Distilling & Legacy

• Small-Batch Crafting: As a small-batch spirit, Smoking Lounge Gin reflects Corgi’s commitment to experimentation rather than mass production. (caskers.com)
• Legacy Post-Closure: With Corgi’s closure (per community), expressions like Smoking Lounge Gin have gained sentimental and collectible value. (Reddit)
• Innovation in American Gin: Smoking gin is less common in the craft gin world, and Corgi’s approach reflects how distillers push boundaries beyond citrus, floral, or botanical-only styles.

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6. Frequently Asked Questions (“People Also Ask”)

Here are commonly searched questions about Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin, with well-supported answers:

Q1: What is Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:
Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin is a craft gin produced by Corgi Spirits (Jersey City, NJ). It features a smoky profile (smoked applewood), classic gin botanicals, and is bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof). (caskers.com)

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Q2: Who makes Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:
It was made by Corgi Spirits, a family-run distillery founded by Bob Hagemann in 2017 in Hudson County, New Jersey. (caskers.com)

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Q3: What does Smoking Lounge Gin taste like?

Answer:

• Nose: Applewood smoke, herbal and floral notes, citrus. (caskers.com)
• Palate: Balanced smoke, juniper, herbal depth, and citrus brightness. (Flaviar)
• Finish: Gentle smoky fade, herbal complexity, and smooth texture. (caskers.com)

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Q4: What is the ABV (alcohol content) of Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:
The ABV is 43%, which is 86 proof. (caskers.com)

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Q5: What botanicals are used in Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:
While Corgi hasn’t published a full recipe, publicly cited botanicals include juniper, coriander, angelica root, orris root, and the signature smoked applewood. (ForWhiskeyLovers.com)

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Q6: Is Smoking Lounge Gin a seasonal release?

Answer:
Yes — according to Caskers, it is a seasonal spirit designed with autumnal inspiration in mind, but it is said to be “equally delicious throughout the year.” (caskers.com)

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Q7: How should I drink Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:

• Neat or Over Ice: To appreciate its smoky notes, sipping it neat or with a large ice cube is ideal.
• Cocktails: Use it in classic gin cocktails (martini, gin & tonic) to get a smoky twist. LoveScotch suggests it’s particularly good over ice or in refined cocktails. (LoveScotch.com)
• Savory Pairings: Its smoke and herb character may pair well with meats, smoked foods, or charcuterie.

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Q8: Where can I buy Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin?

Answer:

• Flaviar: Listed on Flaviar for 750ml bottles. (Flaviar)
• ForWhiskeyLovers.com: Available via their site. (ForWhiskeyLovers.com)
• LoveScotch: Has listed it for purchase. (LoveScotch.com)
• Local Retailers: When Corgi was active, its products were in New Jersey, New York and other U.S. states. (Corgi Spirits)
• Secondary / Resale: Since the distillery’s closure, availability may depend on remaining stock in liquor stores or second‑hand.

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Q9: Why is it called “Smoking Lounge” Gin?

Answer:
The name evokes the classic “smoking lounge” aesthetic: refined, smoky, and reminiscent of leather chairs, wood-paneled rooms, and relaxed sophistication. The gin’s smoked applewood component reinforces that lounge-style character. (Flaviar)

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Q10: Is Smoking Lounge Gin gluten-free?

Answer:
Yes. Because Corgi’s base spirit is potato, not grain, their gin is naturally gluten-free. (caskers.com)

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7. Strengths & Considerations

Strengths

1. Unique Flavor Profile: Blend of smoke + gin botanicals is rare and compelling.
2. Smooth Base: Potato-based spirit gives a rich, silky texture.
3. Craftsmanship: Small-batch production and thoughtful recipe.
4. Versatility: Works totable neat, on ice, or in smoky cocktails.
5. Memorable Concept: The “smoking lounge” idea stands out in a sea of floral/citrus gins.

Considerations / Trade‑offs

1. Limited Availability: With Corgi’s closure, finding this gin may become more difficult.
2. Niche Appeal: Smoky gin may not appeal to purists who prefer traditional juniper-dominant profiles.
3. Pricing Risk: As stock dwindles, prices may rise.
4. Serving Challenges: Smoke is subtle — poor mixers may hide it, and not all cocktails will showcase it well.
5. Storage: Because it’s a specialty spirit, preserving its quality over time matters; consumers may need to consume earlier.

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8. Community & Critical Perception

• Reddit Sentiment:
  

  “Smoking Lounge is very good … it starts off as a classic London Dry … then a smoky wood flavour builds … more a smokiness … from a good wood fire.” (Reddit)
  “Our GF has a special connection … I would love to find her a back up bottle … Gin is my favorite spirit … but there’s really no value added … I loved the Corgi offerings (particularly the smoking lounge gin) …” (Reddit)
  “How cute!! … this was my last batch I had … before cracking it open … Always a day late and a bottle short …” (Reddit)

• Distillery’s Own Voice: In a profile, Corgi’s founder Bob Hagemann said he wanted to make gins that appeal to both purists and adventurous drinkers — and created Smoking Lounge to be “smokey, rich and heavy.” (New Jersey Digest)
• Retailers / Reviewers:
  • Flaviar describes it as “sultry and subtle … mysteriously smoky … feels like putting on your sexiest outfit.” (Flaviar)
  • LoveScotch notes it has “hints of leather, tobacco, and a touch of citrus … complex and layered.” (LoveScotch.com)

Overall, the community sees Smoking Lounge Gin as one of Corgi’s most distinctive and beloved expressions — something both memorable and flavorful, with a loyal following.

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9. Comparison to Other Corgi Gins & Broader Context

To put Smoking Lounge Gin in context, it’s useful to compare with other offerings from Corgi, and where it sits in the broader gin world.

9.1 Compared to Other Corgi Gins

• Bee Blossom Gin: Floral, honeyed, spring-like. Smoking Lounge is darker, smoky, and more contemplative. (the GIN is IN)
• Garden Party Gin: Bright, cucumber and herbs. Smoking Lounge leans into wood smoke and deep botanicals instead of fresh greens.
• Earl Grey Gin: Tea-based, aromatic citrus and bergamot. Smoking Lounge is more about smoke + traditional gin depth. (the GIN is IN)
• Pembroke Gin: Citrus and floral. Again, a very different profile from the smoky, rich nature of Smoking Lounge. (Flask)

9.2 Compared to Other Smoky or Barrel Gins

• Barrel-aged Gins: Some gins are matured in barrels, giving woody or charred notes. Smoking Lounge’s approach is different — it’s not barrel-aged, but smoke-infused, giving a softer, more ambient smoke feel rather than heavy char or wood tannins.
• Other Smoked Spirits: Compared to smoked whiskies or rums, this gin retains juniper and botanical core, making it more delicate and botanical rather than just “smoke-forward.”

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10. Conclusion

Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin is a standout, atmospheric spirit that brings something rare to the gin world: a thoughtful marriage of smoke, botanicals, and craft distillation. It’s not a gimmick — the applewood smoke is elegant, balanced with herbal complexity, citrus lift, and a solid gin backbone.

Key takeaways:

• Flavorful & Balanced: The smoke doesn’t dominate; it complements the gin’s botanical base.
• Smooth & Textured: Potato-based spirit gives it a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Versatile Drinking: Great neat, on ice, or in elevated cocktails.
• Collector Potential: With Corgi Spirits now closed, this gin may become even more cherished among fans.
• Cultural Resonance: Evokes refined “lounge” spaces, capturing a mood more than just a taste.

Whether you’re a gin lover seeking something smoky and refined, or a collector who values unique craft expressions, Smoking Lounge Gin offers a deeply satisfying and memorable experience.

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If you like, I can suggest 5 cocktail recipes using Corgi Smoking Lounge Gin, or compare it to other smoky or barrel-aged gins. Do you want me to do that?