When we accepted the invite to try Waterloo Gin’s new Prickly Pear & Rose, we didn’t expect to end up wondering if this gin might be entering its main character era. But here we are.
Prickly Pear & Rose is the newest addition to the Waterloo lineup. It’s a small-batch gin made right here in Austin, infused with hibiscus, rose petals and real prickly pear. The flavor is floral without being perfume-y, balanced by a soft earthy sweetness that feels more refined than sweet. It’s the kind of spirit you can pour into a spritz, a martini or even sip over ice.
Waterloo Gin has always been inspired by the Hill Country, with a New American style that puts bold botanicals front and center. But this one hits different. It’s local, yes, but it doesn’t feel small. The signature cocktail of the evening was the Waterloo Southside and it absolutely delivered. It’s light, balanced, not overly sweet nor botanical. It’s just… right.
How To Make The Waterloo Southside At Home
Waterloo Southside Recipe:
- 2 oz Waterloo Prickly Pear & Rose Gin
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 to 6 fresh mint leaves
- Lime peel for garnish
Muddle the mint and syrup together in a shaker. Add gin, lime juice and ice. Shake until well chilled. Double strain into a coupe glass and garnish with lime peel.
Is This The Next Big Thing From Austin?
There’s something about this launch that felt bigger than a limited release. Waterloo Gin is already known for its No. 9 and barrel-aged gins, but this new expression brings something fresh. It’s bold enough to stand out in complex cocktails and it’s absolutely Instagrammable (in case that still matters to you).
More importantly, the brand is now under the ownership of John Paul DeJoria, the man behind Patrón and Paul Mitchell. If anyone knows how to take a local brand and turn it into a global name, it’s him.
Many a small Austin brand has been able to build a loyal local following and then, BOOM, they’re everywhere. Just look at Tito’s, Yeti, Kendra Scott and Whole Foods – to name a few. Perhaps Waterloo will be next. We’re not saying it’s guaranteed. But we are saying that this gin is worth paying attention to.
