Gray Whale Gin brings a taste of the California coast to the bar at Camp West in West Seattle — a West Coast spirit that fits right in with our outdoorsy, conservation-minded streak. Made with six botanicals foraged and grown along the migratory path of the gray whale, it is a gin with a story and a soul, and a smooth, coastal character that makes it a joy to pour. For guests who like a gin that tastes like the place it comes from, this one is special.
About the Distillery
Gray Whale Gin is made by Golden State Distillery in Sebastopol, California, founded in 2016 by Marsh and Jan Mokhtari with the goal of crafting a spirit that celebrates California’s natural beauty. The brand is deeply tied to ocean conservation: it is a member of 1% for the Planet and supports Oceana, the world’s largest organization devoted solely to marine conservation.
Botanicals & Style
This is a contemporary, coastal-style gin built on six California botanicals sourced sustainably along the gray whale’s migration route: juniper from Big Sur, kombu kelp from Mendocino, almonds from the Capay Valley, limes from Baja California, fir from Sonoma County, and mint from Santa Cruz. Distilled seven times, it is exceptionally smooth, with the kelp and fir lending a gentle savory, coastal note that sets it apart from classic London Dry gins.
Tasting Notes
Expect a fresh nose of citrus and pine with a whisper of sea air, a smooth and silky body, and a palate where bright lime and cooling mint meet soft juniper and a subtle savory kelp minerality. The finish is clean, crisp, and refreshing — unmistakably West Coast.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
Gray Whale is gorgeous in a gin and tonic with a lime wheel, where its citrus and coastal notes really open up, and it makes a bright, smooth martini. It also shines in a Gimlet. Tell your bartender how you take it. Gray Whale pours at $12.
FAQ
Why is it called Gray Whale Gin?
Its botanicals are foraged and grown along the California coast that gray whales migrate past each year, and the brand supports marine conservation through Oceana and 1% for the Planet.
What does Gray Whale Gin taste like?
Smooth and coastal — bright lime and mint over soft juniper, with a gentle savory note from kombu kelp and fir.
Come taste the coast. Book a table, explore the full gin list, or browse the complete beverage menu.