Award-winning artisan gin brand Portofino Dry Gin has launched Portofino Botanical Spirit: Light Edition to the UK on-trade market, marking its entry into the growing medium-strength spirits category.
Bottled at 20% ABV, the new Portofino Botanical Spirit offers a lighter interpretation of the brand’s signature flavour profile while maintaining its distinctive Mediterranean character.
Inspired by the original Portofino Dry Gin, the new expression has been created for evolving drinking occasions, offering consumers a lower-alcohol alternative without compromising on flavour. It is aimed at those seeking a lighter serve for occasions such as lunch, a long aperitivo or more mindful social gatherings.
At the heart of the recipe are vacuum-distilled seaweed and water from the Mediterranean Sea, complemented by 25 botanicals inspired by the scents of Liguria. These include juniper, lemon, lavender, thyme, hyssop, yarrow, iris and mint. The production process combines botanical infusions, traditional and vacuum distillation, and precise blending to reduce alcohol while preserving the character and complexity of the original recipe.
Packaging
The new bottle is distinguished by a lighter blue hue than the brand’s signature Portofino Dry Gin bottle and is finished with a satin texture inspired by surfaces smoothed by sand and sea foam.
Its label depicts the Bay of San Fruttuoso, an iconic destination on the Ligurian Riviera that is accessible only by sea and is home to a historic 10th-century Benedictine abbey and secluded beach. Also featured is the silhouette of the KLABAMO, the historic Pudel family sailboat that inspired the brand. Together, these design elements celebrate Portofino’s enduring connection to the Mediterranean and the Italian Riviera lifestyle.
Drinking occasions are evolving, and we wanted to respond to that shift.
Ruggero Raymo, co-founder of Portofino Dry Gin, said: “Drinking occasions are evolving, and we wanted to respond to that shift. This new expression doesn’t simply expand our portfolio; it introduces a lighter way to experience Portofino, Inspired by the sea and crafted for mindful enjoyment. We’ve applied the same craftsmanship and attention to detail that define Portofino Dry Gin. I’ve already started calling it ‘Portofino Light’, and my personal favourite is now a Portofino Light & Tonic.”
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Marine and citrus.
- Palate: Fresh citrus aromas and a delicate marine character.
- Taste: Mediterranean notes balances by herbal and umami hints.
- Finish: Long and fresh.
Botanical Composition
- Distilled seaweed and water from the Italian Mediterranean Sea.
- Juniper
- Lemon
- Lavender
- Thyme
- Hyssop
- Yarrow
- Iris
- Mint
- Rosemary
Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
20%
Availability
Boutique Brands – £39.90
Boutique-Brands is the exclusive UK distributor of Portofino Dry Gin.
