Hendrick's Lunar is the second limited release from the Cabinet of Curiosities — the experimental series from Master Distiller Lesley Gracie at the Hendrick's Gin Palace in South Ayrshire, Scotland. Where the first Cabinet of Curiosities release, the Midsummer Solstice Gin, captured the long golden light of a Scottish summer evening, Lunar is its nocturnal counterpart. Gracie conceived this gin "during a moonlit evening while tending to botanicals in the hothouse," inspired by a specific sensory phenomenon she described as follows: "There are certain flowers that only release their scent under the light of the moon. There is a peculiar sensory attachment to scents at night. Your body doesn't react to aromas in the same way as during daylight. The darkness changes things."

The resulting gin is deeply floral and more warmly spiced than the classic Hendrick's — built on the same foundation of Bulgarian Rosa Damascena rose and cucumber that defines the house style, but extended with night-blooming flowers and aromatic spices that only emerge after dark. Lavender, hibiscus, lemongrass, and rosewater sit alongside warm baking spice, black pepper, and juniper. The overall character is smooth, sensual, and perfectly designed for evening drinking. Bottled at 43.4% ABV — slightly higher than the original Hendrick's — from the Hendrick's Gin Palace within the Girvan Grain Distillery complex.

ABV / Proof

Tasting Notes

Color: Clear

Nose: Rich night-blooming floral essence — lavender, hibiscus, jasmine, and honeysuckle backed by fragrant citrus oils and subtle peppery sparks. The signature Hendrick's rose character grounds the whole nose.

Palate: Softly peppery and floral — rosewater, lemongrass, lavender, and warm baking spice unfold smoothly. A crisp burst of citrus cuts through the richness. Spicy but mellow juniper adds structure. Cardamom and vanilla develop in the mid palate.

Finish: Long, warm, and gently spiced — orange, lemongrass, and a lingering floral warmth that fades slowly.

FAQ

How does Lunar compare to original Hendrick's?
Original Hendrick's is defined by its famously cool, crisp, and refreshing character built on rose and cucumber. Lunar takes that floral foundation and pushes it into a warmer, more deeply floral and spiced territory — adding night-blooming botanicals and aromatic spices that make it better suited to evening cocktails and sipping in a G&T than the bright, daytime freshness of the original.

What is the best way to serve Hendrick's Lunar?
It shines in a Gin & Tonic with cucumber and a twist of black pepper, which highlights the floral and spice character beautifully. A lemon twist Martini is equally spectacular — the citrus lifts the delicate florals. Lesley Gracie also suggests a Starry Old Fashioned with sugar syrup, orange bitters, and Angostura over ice.

Where can I buy Hendrick's Lunar Gin online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast, insured shipping nationwide.