James & James Bay Leaf Gin

James & James Bay Leaf Gin: A Libation in Every Sense

James & James tells the story of a father and a son, James Bealer Sr. and James. Their family traditions traveled from Demopolis, Alabama, to New York’s Hudson Valley. In fact, theirs is a heritage of gathering, cooking, and craft. It includes a family tradition of infused vinegars that foreshadowed the botanical artistry in this bottle. The back label offers a definition, juke-box style, of the word that anchors the brand: a libation. A libation is the pouring of a drink as an offering to a deity or in honor of the dead. Every glass of James & James honors that spirit: family, memory, and the people who came before.

The gin itself uses a distinctive botanical bill of juniper berries, lemon peel, and bay leaf. This gives the classic gin profile a savory, aromatic twist with a Southern accent. Also, at 40% ABV in a 750ml bottle, it fits naturally into a martini with character. It also makes a gin and tonic that tastes like nothing else on the shelf. It has earned placements at independent bottle shops around the country, a testament to a small brand with a big point of view.

Bay Leaf, Lemon, and Juniper, Made in Florida

Timber Creek Distilling in Crestview, Florida, distills and bottles James & James Bay Leaf Gin. This grain-to-glass craft distillery sits on a working family farm in the Panhandle. As a result, Timber Creek’s on-site, small-batch approach is exactly what a botanical-forward gin demands. Careful distillation lets the bay leaf lend its gentle spice without overwhelming the juniper backbone. The result is smooth, savory, and unmistakably its own, a gin worth pouring slowly and sharing generously. Raise it as the label intends: as a libation, to family and to those we remember.

In short, James & James Bay Leaf Gin is best enjoyed in person. Come find it at one of our tours and tastings sessions in Crestview. And if you want spirits made under your own label, explore our private label program. You can also plan a private event here on the farm, or reserve our hands-on bourbon blending experience. Finally, for more on the process, read about how gin is made.