Sipping Stories: Discover the Heritage of Running River Gin

Introducing Running River Gin: A Taste of New Jersey's Heritage

We're thrilled to unveil our very first spirit release at Living Spirits—Running River Gin! 

Handcrafted in small batches, our gin isn’t just locally made in Hackettstown, New Jersey —it’s also a vibrant tribute to the rich history and natural beauty of our state, incorporating its essence into every sip.

The Heritage of Gin

Distillers began producing juniper-infused spirits back in the 1600s, touting the botanical as a medicine and a panacea. In fact, this is the origin of the term "Dutch Courage"; 17th century Dutch soldiers told their British counterparts that drinking "jenever," gin's ancestor, calmed their nerves before battle.

British enthusiasm for the spirit spurred an explosion of innovation in distilling -- juniper seems to go well with everything, and everywhere the British went, they experimented with local flora to produce unique gins, deeply influenced by local ingredients and reflecting the diverse palates and preferences of each region.

Running River Gin honors this legacy by infusing native, indigenous botanicals into a spirit that is simultaneously familiar and uniquely its own.

Wild Bergamot: From Resistance to Refreshment

A standout botanical in our gin is wild bergamot, an aromatic that carries deep, often overlooked historical significance. Now often called Oswego Tea, during the American Colonial period wild bergamot became a symbol of American resilience following the Boston Tea Party… Colonists turned to this plant as a flavorful alternative to imported (heavily taxed) British tea.

Wild Bergamot

Wild Violets: The Heart of New Jersey

Each bottle of Running River Gin incorporates handpicked wild violets, New Jersey’s state flower. These delicate blooms not only add a unique floral essence to our spirit but also symbolize resilience and simplicity. As you savor the gin’s complex flavor profile, we hope the wild violet will remind you of the hidden beauty found throughout our state.

Common Meadow Violet

Tasting Notes: Floral, Light, and Complex

Running River Gin is floral, light, and complex, offering an elevated tasting experience. With delicate notes of violet, bright citrus, and a subtle black pepper finish, each sip is an exploration of layers that delight and intrigue. This versatility makes it an ideal companion for both quiet contemplation and joyful celebrations.

Each botanical has been carefully chosen to create a spirit that celebrates authenticity and innovation, making it a perfect beverage for both gin aficionados and curious newcomers alike.

In Every Sip, A Story

The history of spirits is intricately tied to human culture—serving not just as a means of refreshment, but as a catalyst for connection, celebration, and often reflection on the times.  At Living Spirits, we want Running River Gin to be not just an incredible spirit, but also a vessel for storytelling. As you raise a glass, reflect on the enduring beauty, bold legacy, and rich history of New Jersey. Here’s to celebrating the spirit of the Garden State, crafted with care in every bottle.

Cheers! 🌿💜