Best Gin In the World - Old English Gin
Old English Gin harks back to a time when drinks were much simpler—before thousands of gins with eccentric botanicals competed like Roman gladiators. In the 1700s, you had just two choices when it came to gin: English or Dutch. English gins were nicknamed Old Tom or named after the distilleries that produced them, such as Booth’s.
During that era, Britain was the world's largest importer of Champagne, leaving a surplus of empty bottles. Ever resourceful, people repurposed these bottles by filling them with gin and selling them to the public. We certainly had a knack for innovation!
Old English Gin, crafted by Hammer and Son, takes an authentic gin recipe from 1783 and recreates it as precisely as possible. The only significant change is the omission of an ingredient you’ll be glad isn’t included—turpentine oil. Historically, turpentine was used to enhance juniper flavours without sourcing high-quality juniper or refining the distillation process. Taking shortcuts like this is something Hammer and Son firmly reject, especially since turpentine is toxic and should never be consumed!
To ensure authenticity, Hammer and Son use the oldest pot still in commercial service in the UK and sell Old English in Champagne bottles with organic sealing and silk print. This meticulous attention to detail has paid off—Old English Gin has won multiple awards, proving it’s far more than just a clever marketing concept. The liquid itself stands tall on its own merits.
Awards Won by Old English Gin
- World’s Best Gin at World Gin Awards 2015
- Best Traditional Style at World Gin Awards 2015
- Double Gold at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition 2014
- Double Gold and Best in Show at The Fifty Best Gin Competition 2014 in New York
So, what does it taste like? It’s unmistakably juniper-forward on the nose, but there are deeper autumnal elements at play—notes reminiscent of wet leaves and damp paper. While that may sound unusual, it’s an intriguing aroma.
Upon tasting, I found a surprising traditionalist structure despite the slightly puzzling nose. The juniper is dominant, with supporting citrus notes. The texture is pleasantly thick, offering a silky mouthfeel.
Then comes the complexity—earthy cloves, nutmeg, and a subtle underlying sweetness. The finish is long and balanced, leaving lingering spice and warmth. It’s a unique gin with layers of intrigue.