Waterloo Gin No. 9

Waterloo Gin No. 9 is a bold American-style gin that reimagines classic dry gin with a distinct Texas personality—combining floral, citrus, herbal, and nutty character in an expressive, high-proof format. Bottled at 94 proof (47 % ABV), it offers both depth and vibrancy that shine neat, in spritz-style serves, or in adventurous gin cocktails.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Waterloo No. 9 hails from Treaty Oak Distilling Co. in Dripping Springs, Texas, and is crafted in what the producer calls a New American style—an approach that nods to traditional dry gins while incorporating locally inspired botanicals and innovative methods.

The gin is vapor-infused with nine botanicals, a technique intended to extract delicate aromatic compounds while preserving clarity and balance. Botanicals include juniper, lavender, grapefruit, pecan, orris root, coriander, anise, ginger, and licorice root—a lineup that creates a layered profile reflecting the Texas Hill Country terroir. After distillation, the spirit is proofed down with limestone-filtered Texas spring water before bottling.

Critics Reviews
There are no widely published professional critic scores from mainstream spirits authorities (e.g., Whisky Advocate or major competition results) specific to Waterloo No. 9 Gin. However, the style is frequently recognized in gin enthusiast circles and guides as an interesting modern American expression that pairs well with citrus-forward cocktails such as a G&T or a Negroni, where its nuanced botanicals can interact playfully with tonic and vermouth.

Tasting Profile
Nose: Aromatic and inviting with fresh lavender and citrus zest (grapefruit), layered over juniper and spice. The floral and herbal elements are prominent without feeling perfumey, giving a distinctive chapter to the traditional gin bouquet.

Palate: Medium-bodied with bright citrus character, gentle juniper backbone, and nuanced spice notes from ginger and coriander. A subtle nutty quality—inspired by pecan—underpins the core, adding warmth and depth.

Finish: Clean and slightly warming, tapering toward a gentle citrus and herbal echo that lingers without harshness. The floral and spice elements continue to interplay through the finish.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

Texas Negroni (Bold & Balanced)

• 1 oz Waterloo No. 9 Gin

• 1 oz Campari

• 1 oz sweet vermouth
  Method: Stir with ice until chilled; strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube; garnish with orange peel.

Hill Country Gin & Tonic (Herbal & Refreshing)

• 2 oz Waterloo No. 9 Gin

• 4–5 oz premium tonic water

• Grapefruit twist
  Method: Build over ice; stir gently; express grapefruit zest over top.

Citrus Lavender Martini (Floral & Bright)

• 2 oz Waterloo No. 9 Gin

• ½ oz dry vermouth

• Lemon twist
  Method: Stir with ice; strain into a chilled coupe; garnish with lemon twist.