While the lush island of Bermuda is often synonymous with the vibrant tropical flair of rum-based cocktails, a hidden jewel lies within its shores: gin. The connection of gin to Bermuda is both historic and modern, radiating from the culinary traditions influenced by the island’s British heritage. As several local businesses endeavor to highlight this spirit’s significance, there is a remarkable shift occurring in how Bermudians and visitors alike appreciate the complexity and versatility of gin.
Among the key players revitalizing gin’s place in Bermudian culture is the Bermuda Gin Co., which emerged onto the scene in 2019. This family-owned distillery seeks to craft spirits that echo the island’s rich flavors and traditions. Coordinating with other local entities, they are crafting a narrative that juxtaposes Bermuda’s sun-kissed beaches with gin’s botanical elegance. Similarly, the luxurious Rosewood Bermuda resort has taken significant strides to cultivate the gin movement through initiatives that celebrate both cocktail creativity and environmental responsibility.
Rosewood Bermuda’s unique program, The Juniper Initiative, serves as a platform that combines the love for gin with a critical conservation effort. Drawing inspiration from the endangered Bermuda Cedar, this initiative not only seeks to raise awareness about local environmental issues but also offers patrons a chance to contribute positively to the ecosystem. For every Juniper & Tonic (the aptly named “J&T”) sold at the resort’s stylish Conservatory Bar & Lounge, a donation is made towards planting Bermuda Cedar trees. This initiative beautifully intertwines the act of enjoying a carefully crafted cocktail with environmental stewardship.
The J&T cocktail is a sensory celebration, merging the zing of tart lime and the zest of ginger gin with a touch of silky melon liqueur. This drink isn’t just a tasty refreshment; it’s a commitment to preserving the island’s natural heritage. Moreover, the Conservatory Bar honors this theme with its “Cocktails for Conservation” program, where patrons can savor over 40 varieties of gin and participate in daily complimentary tastings. The bar also offers an alcohol-free option, the Green Garden Cooler, emphasizing the inclusivity of their mission while also aiding in fundraising efforts.
Andrew Archibald, the managing director of Rosewood Bermuda, notes that The Juniper Initiative symbolizes a broad commitment to sustainability. Partnering with organizations like the Bermuda National Trust, the resort is not simply engaging in philanthropy; they’re fostering community resilience. This collaboration enables the preservation of Bermuda’s natural parks and promotes an ongoing dialogue about environmental responsibilities.
As Bermuda steps into a renaissance of its gin culture, initiatives like The Juniper Initiative are essential in merging the spirit of cocktail innovation with the necessity of ecological awareness. In doing so, they are redefining the essence of Bermudian identity, fostering pride in both heritage and responsibility towards the spectacular, yet fragile, landscapes of the island.