The Gin Directory · Herbarium

Tormentil

Potentilla tormentilla

Illustration folgt

fig. — Rhizome / Root

Part used Rhizome / Root

Native range Europe, temperate regions of Asia, and mountainous/moorland areas

Season Autumn or early spring (when the rootstock is richest in tannins), though dried root is sourced year-round

No 20932 · Selten / speziell

About Tormentil

Tormentil has a rich history in traditional European herbal and medicinal spirits (such as Blutwurz liqueurs in Bavaria and Old Danish bitters), but its direct adaptation into modern gin is a niche innovation driven by craft distilleries exploring regional, wild-foraged, or historic pharmacopoeia ingredients.

Role in Gin

Acts as an earthy modifier or fixative element, adding structural dryness, depth, and mouthfeel complexity.

Flavour Profile

Deeply woody Dry Bitter-sweet Distinctly astringent with subtle earthy and faint rose-like undertones

Pairs With

Pairs well with forest herbs (pine Rosemary Thyme) Citrus peels (lemon/orange) Warm roots (angelica or orris) to reinforce a robust Earthy London Dry or New Western profile