About This Gin – Prior Barcelona Dry Gin
Prior Barcelona Dry Gin, also known as BCN Gin, is one of Spain’s most distinctive craft gins. Distilled in the rugged mountains of El Priorat just outside Barcelona, it’s a spirit that bridges heritage, terroir, and innovation. The base is grappa-style distilled wine from local grape varieties – Carignan, Cariñena, and Grenache – combined with a carefully chosen set of Mediterranean botanicals.
Master Distiller Stefan Lismond produces BCN Gin in small batches using traditional techniques and premium equipment made in Germany by Arnold Holstein. After the grape marc is distilled, juniper and botanicals are introduced in four additional steps. The gin then matures for several years before being brought to drinking strength with pure spring water from the Font del Mas Petit. The result is a premium dry gin that reflects both Barcelona’s vibrant spirit and Priorat’s deep wine tradition.
Barcelona itself is often called the capital of the Gin & Tonic, and this gin proudly carries that reputation. Over the last decade, the city has developed a culture where gin is not just a drink but a social ritual – served in wide balloon glasses, paired with aromatic garnishes, and enjoyed slowly in the Mediterranean evening air. BCN Gin captures this atmosphere in liquid form, making it more than a spirit: it’s a taste of Catalan lifestyle and craftsmanship.
Key Botanicals
- Grapes from Priorat vineyards
- Citrus fruits
- Rosemary
- Figs
- Lemongrass
- Fennel
- Pine
Each ingredient is sourced regionally and naturally, creating a balanced profile that is at once fruity, herbal, and Mediterranean.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Fresh juniper aromas layered with fruity grape notes, balanced by rosemary and herbal nuances.
Palate:
Bright citrus takes the lead, followed by a complex interplay of figs, fennel, and lemongrass, offering warmth and depth.
Finish:
Long, smooth, and elegant, with subtle maritime tones and a delicate echo of its grappa base.
Together, these elements create a gin that feels like a Mediterranean journey in a glass – sun-soaked vineyards, coastal breezes, and the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine. It’s a gin that transports you straight to Barcelona, whether enjoyed neat, in a tonic, or as part of a creative cocktail.
Perfect Serve
The signature way to enjoy Prior Barcelona Dry Gin celebrates its wine heritage. Before preparing your G&T, swirl the glass with a splash of red wine, then discard it. This releases additional grape and red wine aromas that elevate the gin’s character.
- 50ml BCN Gin
- Premium tonic (floral or Mediterranean style)
- Plenty of ice
- Garnish with a twist of citrus peel or a sprig of rosemary
This serve enhances the gin’s natural Mediterranean tones, delivering freshness, complexity, and elegance.
GINferno Rating
On the GINferno app, BCN Gin currently holds a rating of 7.5/10, reflecting its unique balance of fruit, herbs, and grappa character. It stands out as one of the most exciting Spanish gins, especially for drinkers who appreciate wines and grappa but also crave the brightness of a classic dry gin.
Why We Recommend It
- Distilled in the mountains of El Priorat, near Barcelona.
- Crafted on a grappa base, highlighting local Carignan, Cariñena, and Grenache grapes.
- Balanced with regional botanicals for a distinctly Mediterranean flavor.
- Smooth, complex, and matured for depth before bottling.
- Highly rated by the GINferno community and growing in popularity.
Whether you’re exploring Spanish gins for the first time or looking to expand your collection with something unique, Prior Barcelona Dry Gin (BCN Gin) is a must-try.
Have You Tried It Yet?
We’d love to hear how you enjoy Prior Barcelona Dry Gin. Share your tasting notes, photos, or perfect serve ideas using GINferno and tag us with your gin story might inspire others to discover this Mediterranean gem.
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