Orris root is the dried, aged rootstock of a variety of “bearded” iris commonly known as Purple Flag. Although the roots resemble ginger root in appearance, they take on an aroma similar to the violet after curing.
Distilled, orris root retains its floral notes, but it also carries an earthy, dusty sweetness that falls somewhere in the middle of grass and hay. The nose is dry, sweet and clean, while the mouth is strong, sweet and woody – similar in taste to liquorice sticks and is capable of adding depth and texture to a gin.