ARC Archipelago
A global sensation, straight from the Philippines. From the country’s first craft distillery, Full Circle Craft Distillers, comes ARC Archipelago, a barrel-aged gin that is a treat to the senses. As is the case for all excellent spirits, it’s in the aging that gives this Archipelago Botanical Gin its multi-sensory flavors. The process begins when master coopers in Napa Valley, California, toast new American oak barrels Burgundy style (a medium long toast). During the toasting, the oak releases a fusion of aromas that adds to the spirit’s intensity. As it ages, the gin absorbs flavors from the oak barrel. Some of these aromas include dark chocolate, caramel, butterscotch, vanilla bean, toasted almond, roasted nut, hazelnut, créme brulée, and toasted marshmallow. The result is a gin with a flavor profile that balances Philippine botanical flavors, a couple of American nutty aromas, and oaky wood; perfect for sipping neat or as an added flavor to a gin cocktail.
Aside from its flavors, a point of pride for the Archipelago brand is its Filipino roots. Full Circle Craft Distillers handcrafts its artisanal spirits out of Calamba, Laguna. Each bottle that comes out of this distillery includes 22 locally sourced and foraged botanicals. All these are prepared under the expert eye of master distiller Matthew Westfall, whose distillery skills are lifted from a century-long family legacy. A testament to its quality, the brand has been recognized by prestigious international award-giving bodies, including World Gin Awards, Sip Awards, World Spirit Awards, and the Asia International Spirits Competition. ARC Archipelago is proof that the Philippines is a rising star in the spirits scene.
ARC Archipelago Gin is priced at P2,499 to P2,990. It’s available at supermarkets, Duty Free Philippines, and in SM Kultura, D+B Wines & Spirits, and Real Food.
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