Since its inception in the 1940s, the use of synthetic pesticides in farming has increased by over 50-fold. While they were developed to eliminate “harmful” threats to crops, they are now raising a number of environmental concerns; from reduced biodiversity to severe toxicity in humans and wildlife. According to “Sustaining the Earth”, more than 95% of herbicides and pesticides reach a destination other than their intended target. The balance is carried through wind and groundwater, leading to air/water pollution and soil contamination. Increased incidents of cancer, diabetes, miscarriage, and death from severe poisoning is being blamed on pesticide exposure.

I don’t know about you, but after all of that bad news, I could use a drink! Thank goodness that there are now spirits that allow us to still have our vices, but with a twist of virtue. Concerns about pesticide-use have led to an increased interest in the organic food movement and, as awareness grows, so do the number of products that contain organically-grown ingredients. A relative newcomer to the market, TRU has been handcrafting organic vodka and gin since 2008 and are touting themselves as the World’s first sustainable line of spirits. TRU’s line of quality vodkas (straight and flavored) and gin are made in California with pesticide-free, locally-sourced, 100% organic ingredients. That means no synthetic pesticides, fertilizers or GMOs. In fact, according to the company, each bottle of TRU keeps 23 square feet of good old American farmland chemical-free.

So, we know what’s not in them, but what is? For the straight vodka, the ingredient list is just about as minimalist as you can get – nothing but organic wheat and vapor-distilled water. Genuine, fresh lemon and vanilla are added to the flavoured vodkas, and the TRU2 gin contains 14 botanical aromatics, such as juniper berries, lavender and chamomile. Yum!

The taste of TRU vodka is described as clean and pure; words that can also describe their overall philosophy when it comes to eco-awareness and sustainability. All products are packaged in sleek, lightweight bottles and shipped in recyclable, dual-use packaging (shipping cartons become store-displayers). Everything is either recycled, recyclable or biodegradable – even the corks and labels. It’s also worth mentioning that for every bottle that they sell, TRU plants a tree in the Central American rainforest. As I write this, over 60,000 trees have been planted and local farmers have been given training and support. I think that is definitely something to raise a glass to. Cheers!

Why not channel your inner Betty Draper and whip up one of these for your fella:

Classic Martini
2 ½ oz TRU2 Gin
½ dry vermouth
1 green olive or twist of lemon peel
– Add gin and vermouth to a cocktail shaker full of ice. Stir for 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an olive or lemon twist.

Or, try this one from the TRU website:

Honey Drop
3 oz TRU Straight Vodka
Squeeze of fresh grapefruit
Organic honey
– Shake vodka and grapefruit with ice, strain into martini glass, and garnish with swirl of honey.