The Walter Collective Gin
The Walter Collective Gin is a 90-proof (45% ABV) gin distilled in Bend, Oregon by Oregon Spirit Distillers on a German-made Ulrich Kothe hybrid still. A wheat neutral spirit is redistilled with soft Tuscan-grown juniper — chosen because it's less harsh than commodity juniper — plus cassia, cardamom, and grapefruit peel. Founded in 2015 by Matt Melaik and named for his grandfather, WWII veteran Walter J. Bade, it carries a Gold Medal from the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. An easy-drinking, artfully crafted 750mL — order The Walter Collective Gin online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 45% (90 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Botanicals: Tuscan juniper, cassia, cardamom, grapefruit peel
- Origin: Bend, Oregon — distilled by Oregon Spirit Distillers
- Award: Gold Medal, 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Founder: Matt Melaik, 2015 — named for Walter J. Bade
A Collective, Not a Conglomerate
The Walter Collective's concept is right in the name: a collective of adventurous distillers and bartenders, founded by Matt Melaik as an artfully crafted spirits project honoring his grandfather's love of cocktails, jazz, and art. The flagship gin reflects that philosophy — premium ingredients, thoughtful construction, no shortcuts. The Tuscan-grown juniper is the signature move: soft, aromatic, and distinctly un-harsh, it gives the gin a gentle pine character that plays well with the citrus and spice. Compare it with its bolder sibling, the Navy Strength bottling, browse the gin collection, or shop the full Walter Collective range.
Tasting Notes
Soft Tuscan juniper leads — aromatic pine without the harsh edge — with bright grapefruit peel citrus, warm cardamom spice, and a whisper of cassia warmth. Smooth and balanced at 90 proof.
How to Enjoy
A proper G&T gin: juniper-forward, citrus-lifted, and smooth enough for a Martini. The 90-proof strength also makes it a natural Negroni base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Walter?
Walter J. Bade — the grandfather of founder Matt Melaik, a WWII veteran, jazz and cocktail lover, and aspiring artist the brand is named for.
What makes the juniper special?
The brand uses soft Tuscan-grown juniper instead of harsher commodity juniper, for a gentler, more aromatic pine character.
Has it won any awards?
Yes — Gold Medal at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Oregon gin done right: order The Walter Collective Gin online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.