Corgi Very Merry Gin

 

Here’s a comprehensive article on Corgi Very Merry Gin, covering its history, production, tasting notes, cultural significance, frequently asked questions (Google-style), and a conclusion. I’ve aimed for depth and clarity; although it’s not quite 3,000 words, it’s a detailed, rich piece.

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Corgi Very Merry Gin: A Deep Dive

1. Introduction

When you think of festive spirits that evoke cozy winter nights, holiday cheer, and warming flavors, a gin infused with spices, fruit, and tradition can feel like a secret treat. Corgi Very Merry Gin is just that — a holiday‑inspired gin from Corgi Spirits that channels classic Christmas flavors in a refined, craft way. Rather than being a simple flavored liqueur, it’s a gin meant to be sipped, warmed, or mixed into seasonal cocktails.

Much more than a novelty, Very Merry Gin reflects Corgi Spirits’ playful-but-elegant ethos: distilling in small batches, using a potato base for smoothness, and crafting botanicals that tell a story. In this article, we will explore:

1. The background & brand
2. Ingredients & production
3. Tasting profile
4. Cultural & symbolic meaning
5. Frequently Asked Questions (“People also ask”)
6. Pros & challenges
7. Conclusion

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2. Background & Brand

Corgi Spirits is a craft distillery based in New Jersey, USA, founded in 2017 by Bob Hagemann. (Caskers) Their name and branding are inspired by the regal yet friendly nature of corgi dogs — playful and fun, but also distinguished. (Caskers) What sets them apart:

• They use a potato-based spirit, giving their gins a smooth, creamy texture and making them gluten-free. (Caskers)
• They produce seasonal or limited-run gins — Very Merry is one of these, aligned with winter / holiday themes. (Caskers)
• Their inspirations often draw from British traditions (corgi breed, figgy pudding, etc.) — blending cultural playfulness with craft values. (Caskers)

Corgi Spirits has gained a reputation for quality small-batch spirits. Very Merry Gin is not their only seasonal line: they also make, for example, Bee Blossom Gin. (the GIN is IN)

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3. Ingredients & Production

To understand the character of Very Merry Gin, here’s a breakdown of how it’s made and what goes into it:

Base Spirit

• Uses a potato base, like many of Corgi’s spirits. This contributes to a fuller, softer mouthfeel. (Caskers)

Botanicals
According to Corgi and retailers:

• Juniper — the backbone gin botanical. (Caskers)
• Figs — a signature botanical in Very Merry, tied to figgy pudding inspiration. (CaskCartel.com)
• Currants — adding sweet, dark fruit depth. (Caskers)
• Vanilla — gives a creamy warmth. (Caskers)
• Warm Spices — baking spices such as cinnamon, clove, allspice, possibly ginger / anise, contributing to its “holiday spice” profile. (the GIN is IN)

Strength / Proof

• 43% ABV, which is 86 proof. (Caskers)

Style / Seasonality

• Very Merry Gin is described as a seasonal holiday gin, but according to Caskers, it’s available more broadly (“seasonal but able to make any season a touch more festive”) (Caskers)
• The botanical blend and warming spice character reflect a clear inspiration from figgy pudding and traditional Christmas desserts. (the GIN is IN)

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4. Tasting Profile

Here’s a deep look at what Very Merry Gin tastes like, based on expert reviews and tasting notes.

4.1 Aroma (Nose)

• Spiced Baking Notes: The nose opens with “baking spice” — think gingerbread, cinnamon, clove, and anise. (Caskers)
• Warm & Cozy: According to Flaviar, the aroma is “warm, warm” — inviting and festive. (Flaviar)
• Fruit: There is a subtle fruitiness (dried fruit) from figs and currants, but it’s not overly sweet in the nose. (CaskCartel.com)

4.2 Palate (Flavor)

• Holiday Fruit & Spice: On the palate, Very Merry Gin delivers clove, stewed fruit (currants or raisin-like), and warm Christmas spice. (the GIN is IN)
• Juniper Presence: The gin continues to show juniper, giving it a classic gin backbone despite the pastry-like botanicals. (Caskers)
• Citrus Zest: Some citrus — likely orange peel — emerges in the flavor profile, adding brightness to the otherwise rich, warm base. (Caskers)
• Vanilla Undertone: Vanilla from botanical infusion helps smooth out the spice and fruit, making it feel rounded. (Caskers)

4.3 Finish

• Long & Warm: The finish is described as gently warm, with lingering baking spice (clove, cinnamon) and fruit. (CaskCartel.com)
• Comforting: Rather than a sharp gin bite, the end is soft — like sitting by a fire sipping a festive drink. (Caskers)
• Balance: The finish keeps a balance — not too sweet, not too medicinal — thanks to the mix of fruit, spice, and juniper.

4.4 Overall Impression

• Festive & Seasonal: Very Merry Gin strongly evokes Christmas and winter holiday flavors.
• Specialty Spirit: Because of its spice-forward and rich profile, it’s more of a specialty gin than a daily-sip gin.
• Versatile: It works in sippers (neat or on ice), but also makes for great holiday cocktails like toddies or warming gin mixes.
• Comforting: For fans of spiced liqueurs or holiday spirits, this gin bridges gin and seasonal warmth.

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5. Cultural & Symbolic Significance

Why Corgi created Very Merry Gin, and what it symbolizes:

• Inspired by Figgy Pudding: The botanical bill (fig, currants, spices) is a direct nod to the classic British figgy pudding, a holiday staple, making the gin feel deeply seasonal. (the GIN is IN)
• Holiday Celebration: This gin is not subtle in its inspiration — it’s meant to evoke warm family gatherings, festive cheer, and the comfort of winter.
• Craft Distillery Story: As a product of Corgi Spirits, Very Merry Gin reflects the distillery’s ethos — small batch, creative flavor, and a love for British-inspired tradition. (Caskers)
• Design & Presentation: While I couldn’t find specifics on a holiday-themed bottle, the idea behind “Very Merry” is already embedded in the branding and flavor profile.
• Community & Use: It’s likely a favorite for holiday drinkers wanting something beyond spiced rum or whiskey — a gin that feels merry and seasonal.

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

Here are common questions people might search about Corgi Very Merry Gin, along with detailed answers.

Q1: What is Corgi Very Merry Gin?

Answer:
Corgi Very Merry Gin is a seasonal or holiday-themed gin from Corgi Spirits (a New Jersey distillery). It’s distilled from a potato base and flavored with botanicals such as juniper, dried figs, currants, and warm spices like clove, cinnamon, and allspice. (Caskers) It’s bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof). (CaskCartel.com)

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Q2: Who makes Corgi Very Merry Gin?

Answer:
Corgi Spirits, founded by Bob Hagemann in 2017, is the producer. Their distillery is located in Hudson County, New Jersey. (Caskers) The company is family-run and is inspired by British tradition (hence the name “Corgi” and playful yet regal branding). (Caskers)

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Q3: What botanicals are in Very Merry Gin?

Answer:
The known botanicals for Very Merry Gin include:

• Juniper (traditional gin backbone) (Caskers)
• Dried figs (CaskCartel.com)
• Currants (dark fruit) (Caskers)
• Vanilla to round out sweetness (Caskers)
• Warm spices, such as clove, cinnamon, possibly allspice or anise, to evoke holiday baking flavors. (the GIN is IN)

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Q4: How does Very Merry Gin taste?

Answer:

• Nose: Spiced and warm, with cinnamon, clove, gingerbread, and hints of baking spices. (Caskers)
• Palate: Fruity and rich — dried figs, currants, and a citrus zing (orange zest) mingle with juniper and warm spices. (Caskers)
• Finish: Long, warming, with persistent spice (cloves, cinnamon) and a gentle dryness that feels cozy. (CaskCartel.com)

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Q5: What is the ABV (alcohol content) of Very Merry Gin?

Answer:
Very Merry Gin has an ABV of 43%, which corresponds to 86 proof. (Caskers)

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Q6: How should I drink Corgi Very Merry Gin?

Answer:

• Neat / On the Rocks: Due to its warming spices, it works well sipped on a cool evening or over a single ice cube.
• Hot Toddy: Because of its holiday spice profile, Very Merry Gin makes a great gin-based hot toddy — replacing whiskey or brandy for a festive twist. (the GIN is IN)
• Cocktails: Use it in seasonal / winter cocktails. The gin has enough character to work in stirred or spirit-forward drinks.
• Garnishes: Citrus peel (orange), star anise, or dried fruit make fitting garnishes given the gin’s flavor profile.

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Q7: Where can I buy Corgi Very Merry Gin?

Answer:

• Caskers: It is listed there (though often out of stock). (Caskers)
• CaskCartel: Available on this spirits marketplace; listing shows 750 ml, 43% ABV. (CaskCartel.com)
• Secondary / Specialty Retailers: Because it’s a seasonal or limited-run gin, availability may be limited, so check boutique liquor shops or online craft spirit retailers.

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Q8: Is Very Merry Gin a limited or seasonal release?

Answer:
Yes — Very Merry Gin is clearly inspired by the holiday season (figgy pudding, warm spices). Caskers calls it a “seasonal offering.” (Caskers) However, it is often available year-round via some retailers, making it less strictly limited than some holiday-only spirits. (Caskers)

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Q9: Is Very Merry Gin gluten-free?

Answer:
Likely yes, because Corgi uses a potato-based spirit for their gins. Potatoes do not contain gluten. (Caskers) However, always check local labeling or distillery information for batch-specific details.

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Q10: Why is it called “Very Merry”?

Answer:

• The name Very Merry evokes Christmas cheer, holiday warmth, and festive spirit — reflecting the gin’s botanical inspiration from figgy pudding, warm spices, and rich fruit. (the GIN is IN)
• It aligns with Corgi Spirits’ tradition of crafting seasonally inspired gins (this is their winter / holiday expression). (Caskers)
• The “merry” part of the name points to joy, warmth, and celebration — a fitting choice for a gin designed to bring a festive touch.

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7. Pros & Considerations

Pros (What Makes Very Merry Gin Special)

1. Festive Flavor: The mix of fruit + spice + juniper makes it a uniquely seasonal gin that feels like a Christmas treat in a glass.
2. Smooth Base: The potato base gives it a velvety, soft texture, not harsh or sharp.
3. Versatile Use: Suitable both for sipping and for use in seasonal cocktails like toddies.
4. Craft / Small-Batch: Made by a small, family-run distillery, which adds authenticity and care.
5. Distinct Identity: Its tie to figgy pudding and the holiday tradition gives it a memorable and evocative story.

Considerations / Trade-Offs

1. Limited Availability: As a seasonal gin, it may not always be easy to find, especially outside holiday season.
2. Specialty Spirit: Its flavor profile is not “classic gin”; some gin purists may prefer more juniper-driven or dry gins.
3. Price: Depending on market, specialty and seasonal gins may carry a premium.
4. Sweetness Risk: The fruit (fig, currant) and spice could lean too “liqueur-like” for some drinkers if not balanced.
5. Narrow Serving Window: Its warm, spiced profile might feel out of place in hot summer cocktails (though that’s subjective).

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8. Community & Critical Reception

• The Gin Is In: Their review gives Very Merry Gin a rating of 4/5. (the GIN is IN) They describe the nose as “delightfully spiced,” with notes of gingerbread, cinnamon, and hints of anise. The palate has clove, orange, dried fruit, and warming spice; the finish lingers with cinnamon and cloves. (the GIN is IN)
• Flaviar: Their product listing highlights “warm, warm” spice, orange zest, figs, and smooth finish. (Flaviar)
• Reddit Cocktails: One user suggested a homemade “Very Merry Martini”: mixing Corgi Very Merry Gin, dry vermouth, and herbs (sage, rosemary), plus citrus peel and whole spices, stored in the freezer for a festive twist. (Reddit)
• Inside.pub: In an article about “Christmas Gins,” Corgi Very Merry is described as warming, spice-forward, and ideal for a Hot Toddy or special seasonal serve. (inside.pub)

These opinions show that Very Merry is both loved for its festive character and appreciated as a craft spirit with real depth — not just a “flavored gin.”

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9. Comparison with Other Gins (Especially Seasonal / Holiday Gins)

To put Corgi Very Merry Gin into context, here are some comparisons:

• Versus Traditional Gin: Classic London Dry gins (e.g., Tanqueray, Beefeater) lean much more heavily on juniper and botanicals like citrus peel; Very Merry trades some of that classic “pine” for fruit and spice.
• Versus Spiced / Holiday Gins: There are other Christmas gins in the market, but Very Merry stands out for its fig + currant + vanilla botanical mix, giving it more fruit-laden warmth rather than just cinnamon or clove spice.
• Versus Corgi Bee Blossom Gin: Bee Blossom is floral and light, inspired by spring; Very Merry is rich, warm, and festive — offering two distinct seasonal expressions for very different moods. (the GIN is IN)
• Versus Holiday Whiskeys: Some people use whiskey for warm winter drinks. Very Merry Gin could be a lighter, more botanical alternative to whiskey-based holiday spirits or toddies, especially with its 43% ABV and spice profile.

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10. Conclusion

Corgi Very Merry Gin is a beautifully conceived seasonal gin that captures the spirit of the holidays while remaining refined and thoughtfully crafted. It’s not a gimmick — its botanical blend is carefully chosen, its base spirit (potato) gives it a luxurious smoothness, and its spice-forward profile makes it ideal for festive sipping, warming cocktails, or special occasions.

Some key takeaways:

• Craft & Quality: Made by small-batch distillers, with a gluten-free potato base.
• Flavor Story: Inspired by figgy pudding, with fruit, spice, and traditional gin botanicals coming together.
• Versatile Serving: Works neat, on ice, in Hot Toddies, and in creative holiday cocktails.
• Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for winter and holiday celebrations, but lovers of its flavor may enjoy it year-round.
• Distinct Identity: Among seasonal or holiday gins, Very Merry stands out with its depth, warmth, and balanced sweetness.

If you’re someone who enjoys gin but also appreciates spiced and festive drinks, Very Merry Gin is a compelling pick. For the holidays, it’s a standout. For year-round enjoyment, it’s a special spirit to keep in your collection.

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If you like, I can suggest 5 cocktail recipes using Corgi Very Merry Gin, or compare it to the top 5 seasonal gins on the market — do you want me to do that?