Gin is one of the most quintessentially British drinks so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of delicious tipples to select from. These eight, however, are bottles that have that extra special something fit for a celebration, be that the upcoming Coronation or, well, anything! There’s never an inappropriate time to celebrate with great gin after all.
Boodles British Gin
Since a 2013 rejuvenation, Boodles has been flying the flag for quality London Dry that doesn’t cost the earth. The recipe here actually dates way back to the 19th century, using botanicals like rosemary, nutmeg, sage and pronounced juniper. Where Boodles stands out, however, is the lack of citrus which is usually a given for gins these days. This creates a far more herbaceous and aromatic palate that’s sublime over ice with a little premium tonic.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.90
Hayman’s London Dry – Limited Edition
Hayman’s bottles always look the part, but with this limited-edition coronation wrap they’ve outdone themselves. Dressed for celebration in Rose England-designed London-inspired wrapping, the liquid inside doesn’t disappoint. The 150-year-old family recipe is distilled by hand in the most traditional process possible, gently refining into a balanced gin brimming with fresh juniper, vibrant citrus, and a warming spice throughout. It’s made for the coronation, but what a lovely gift it would make for anyone moving to, or fond of, London too!
Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.2%
Find here: £26 Available in Waitrose
Dodd's Gin
Understandably, this gin has been voted in the Top 5 most beautiful gin labels in the world which is exactly what’s needed for a celebration. Named after Ralph Dodd who wanted to build a British spirit distillery in 1807 but never managed to, this is The London Distillery Company’s first gin produced only in London. All botanicals are organic and most, such as honey from The London Honey Company, are locally sourced. Juniper, angelica, fresh lime, cardamom, red raspberry leaf and laurel complete a gin that feels big and bright in flavour. There is also a very pleasant viscosity to the texture that fills the mouth with what is undoubtedly one of the most flavoursome British gins around.
Size: 500m
ABV: 49.8%
Find here: £27.99
Horse Guards London Dry Gin
If you’re after a coronation gin then this might be the one for you because Britain’s Horse Guards were formed by the last Charles on the throne, King Charles II back in 1661, and this same gin is supplied to the Household Cavalry to this day (after the riding is done we’re sure!). With classic botanicals of Juniper, Coriander, Cardamom, Angelica, Orange, and Grapefruit Peel, this is a simple, refined, and elegant expression of British London Dry style gin done really well.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £32.50
Silverback Mountain Strength Gin
Hampshire-based Gorilla Spirits Co. is behind this citrus-forward expression which uses 100% British wheat spirit and a fresh selection of botanicals including acacia blossom, lemongrass, calamus root, angelica, and sweet orange. The citrus has a gorgeous, sweet tinge and clean quality that tastes great, the juniper is piney, and the layers of flavours are subtle but deep. An orange slice is a must in your glass with either premium tonic, or Cardamom flavoured tonic. Also, £1 goes to helping endangered Mountain Gorillas so it’s more than just a name!
Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £35
Deck Chair Gin
Distilled along the English Riviera in Devon, this punchy aromatic tipple reflects the British summer with sunny orange, crisp pink grapefruit, and a surprising herbal finish. This is a versatile expression so if you want to bring out the citrus then pair with a Mediterranean Tonic, but if you prefer the aromatic notes, stick with straight down-the-line Premium tonic. If you popped all the awards this gin has won on an actual deck chair it would probably collapse, so see for yourself why it’s celebration-worthy!
Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £39.95
BH1 Gin
Packaged in a charming vintage exterior, BH1 provides something a little different with a more savoury expression. As you might have guessed if you know your south coast postcodes well, this recipe was thought up in Bournemouth and includes fruity orange and pink grapefruit, warm spices like clove, cinnamon and star anise and fragrance from chamomile, nigella seed and almonds, amongst others. It is tastefully crafted for precision balance, drifting between zippy citrus, welcoming floral notes, fruity sweetness and comforting spice. Bravo!
Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £39.95
Adnams Coronation Gin
Adnams have produced this herbaceous number to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III, with the official emblem front and centre of a sophisticated bottle. There are only 1000 numbered bottles, each containing a gin that emulates the English herb garden (a hint at The King’s well-known green fingers). Think green herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil and parsley amongst fresh cucumber and cleansing tea. This is as herbaceous as gins get so if you’re into that, this is the jackpot.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £50
If you want more drinks to enjoy the coronation with (or for any celebration!) then check out another one of Britain’s finest – Sparkling Wines and we mustn’t forget Buckingham Palace’s very own Coronation gin!