Pour something a little different at Camp West and Nordés Gin is where we like to point curious drinkers. This Atlantic Galician gin comes from the rainy, sea-swept northwest corner of Spain, built on a base spirit distilled from Albariño grapes rather than the usual grain. The result is softer and more aromatic than a classic London dry, with a coastal freshness that suits the cabin-meets-coast feel of our West Seattle bar. It is the kind of bottle we keep on the shelf for the guest who wants a martini or a gin and tonic that tastes like somewhere specific.
About the Distillery
Nordés is made in the small Galician town of Vedra, in the northwest of Spain. The story goes that the idea was hatched over a plate of octopus among a sommelier, a winemaker, and a master distiller who wanted a gin that tasted of their home region. Galicia is wine country, so it made sense to build the spirit on the local Albariño grape, the same variety celebrated for that area’s fresh, fragrant white wines.
Botanicals & Style
Nordés is made with eleven botanicals, six of them local to Galicia, including eucalyptus, lemon verbena, and samphire, which lend a distinctly maritime, herbal quality. The remaining botanicals include juniper, cardamom, hibiscus, ginger, and black tea. Each is macerated separately before distillation because each needs its own steeping time. The grape base makes the style noticeably smooth and floral rather than sharply juniper-led.
Tasting Notes
Expect a fragrant, floral nose with citrus and green herbs. The palate is soft and slightly sweet from the grape spirit, with eucalyptus and verbena giving a cooling, almost coastal lift. The finish is clean and gently herbal. It is approachable enough for gin newcomers and interesting enough for enthusiasts.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
We love Nordés in a gin and tonic with a slice of green apple or a sprig of mint to play up its freshness. It also makes a softer, more aromatic martini if you prefer something less austere. Ask your bartender to build a citrus-forward cocktail around it. A pour of Nordés is $10.
FAQ
Is Nordés made from grapes? Yes. The base spirit is distilled from Albariño grapes grown in Galicia, which gives it a softer, more aromatic character than grain-based gins.
What does Nordés taste like? Floral and herbal with citrus, eucalyptus, and a smooth, slightly sweet body, finishing clean and coastal.
Come find a seat and try it for yourself. Book a table, browse our full gin list, or explore the beverage menu.