Big Gin is a bold, unapologetically juniper-forward gin with deep Seattle roots, and it is poured by the glass at Grappa in Queen Anne, Seattle. It is a hometown favorite with a robust, classic character.
About the Distillery
Big Gin was created by Captive Spirits, the project of third-generation distiller Ben Capdevielle, who began making it in Seattle. The name is a warm tribute to his father, a craft distiller nicknamed Big Jim, and it also captures the spirit’s full, generous flavor. Distilled in copper pot stills in small batches, Big Gin has long been a point of pride for the local craft-spirits scene here in the Pacific Northwest.
Botanicals & Style
This is a proudly juniper-forward gin built on a balanced blend of botanicals. Crisp, piney juniper leads, supported by coriander, bitter orange peel, angelica and orris root for structure, with cassia and cardamom adding warm spice. A signature touch comes from Tasmanian pepperberry and grains of paradise, which give the gin a subtle, peppery lift that sets it apart. The overall style is classic and assertive rather than soft or floral.
Tasting Notes
Expect a confident rush of pine and juniper up front, layered with bright bitter-orange citrus and earthy coriander. The mid-palate brings warm cassia spice and a distinctive peppery glow from the pepperberry and grains of paradise. The finish is long, dry and spice-tinged, with juniper holding firm. It is a gin with backbone, equally at home neat or anchoring a stirred cocktail.
What to Pair It With
Big Gin’s bold, savory character loves our richer Mediterranean plates. Pair it with our Spaniard Octopus, a bowl of Our Hummus, or fresh Fresh Oysters. Explore the full dine-in menu for more pairings.
How It’s Served at Grappa
At Grappa we pour Big Gin neat, over a large rock, or in a classic cocktail such as a Negroni or a crisp Gin & Tonic, at $11.
FAQ
Where is it from?
Big Gin is a craft gin created by Captive Spirits and distiller Ben Capdevielle, with roots in Seattle, Washington.
What does it taste like?
It is bold and juniper-forward, with piney juniper, bitter-orange citrus, warm cassia spice and a distinctive peppery lift from Tasmanian pepperberry and grains of paradise.
Is it juniper-forward?
Yes, emphatically. Big Gin is built around crisp, assertive juniper and wears that classic style proudly.
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