The Best Gins To Gift This Christmas

Words by Leigh Andrews

With the big day fast approaching and with such an amazing choice of gins and gin gifts on the market, choosing can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming - especially if you’re not clued up on the latest trends and releases. Fear not! We have put together a list of little beauties for you. There are all sorts of gins and gin related gifts in here for gin liqueur lovers to the super geeky gin collectors. Each will make sure that you stay on Santa’s good list for next year!  

TARQUIN’S FIGGY PUDDING GIN

This needs no explanation as a great gin gift for Christmas. it’s called Figgy Pudding after all! The flavours in this little Cornish beauty invoke thoughts of nights sat next to the fire, toasted marshmallows and just one more mince pie (once they’re gone they never existed, right?). Christmas spices, citrus zest, dried figs and even blow-torched, brandy-soaked cherry wood chips are all infused with Tarquin’s original London Dry Gin so yep, that makes this a full strength gin woohoo! Try it with ginger ale, lots of ice and a wedge of orange. Oh, and just one more mince pie!

ABV: 42%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: UK £35.95

ANGEL FEATHERS APPLE GIN

Angelic Angel Feathers is perfect if you’re looking for an eco-friendly gin gift for that special someone, with the flavour to back it up. Produced in Wales using only seasonal fruits and botanicals from their own micro fruitery, the bottles even have compostable seals and are returnable/reusable. You can even contact Katharine, the owner at www.angelfeathers.co.uk, she is full of suggestions for your empties that go way past the usual fairy lights! Also available in a stocking filler size of 200ml, meaning you could try some of her other flavours too. This gin is gorgeous with mulling spices in hot apple juice or over ice as a sipper. 

ABV: 39%
Size: 200ml, 500ml
Find here: £23 - £43.50

ATLAS SHICHIMI GIN

Atlas Gins are inspired by exotic flavours from all around the world and we love them for their complex, unique flavours. Their Shichimi gin (try saying that after having a couple) is inspired by 17th Century, Japanese spice blend, which combines seven spices and is used in traditional cooking. Botanicals in here include Sichuan peppercorn, gyokuro green tea, ginger and nori seaweed, giving it a warm kick with moreish umami notes all freshened up with the juniper and citrus. This is a proper gin to savour!

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: £48

CABBY’S GIN

This small batch gin was distilled in London by almost by mistake! Cabby’s are well known for their rum and they were debating whether or not to put in some juniper, when they discovered an ideal botanical blend for gin. It’s incredibly refreshing and delicately aromatic with notes of lemon balm, dried herbs and lavender, balanced by more exotic spice notes and all underpinned by just the right amount of Juniper. Buying this will also support a black-owned business. Try the rum too!

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: £28.49

TEMPLAR SPIRIT GIN (Daniel Hooper Joker Edition)

If you’re fortunate enough to know a gin collector (they always want to let you taste their latest find!) but are stumped on what to get them for Christmas, then you can’t go wrong with a rare bottle. This striking bottle not only contains a fantastic, classic, smooth London dry gin but how about an actual work of art on the bottle?! Templar Spirits commissioned British artist Daniel Hooper to design and then hand finish each label on this very limited run of 50 bottles of Templar Spirits Gin. If you miss out on this one, fear not, Dan will be working on future limited editions with Templar Spirits.

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find Here: £100

GLASWEGIN CHRISTMAS CRACKER

Now, this is the kind of Christmas cracker every gin lover wants to find on the tree! Feel free to add several, dear husband (I hope he’s reading this!). We’ll even let you off that there’s no bad joke or quality plastic jewellery inside! With 8 botanicals including Scottish milk thistle, coriander, orange flower, Italian juniper, angelica, chamomile, bay leaf and pink peppercorns, this smooth and distinct gin is definitely an absolute cracker!

ABV: 41.1%
Size: 50ml
Find here: £7.95

MARKS AND SPENCER SNOW GLOBE GIN

If you’re looking for a gift for that person who loves Christmas, lots of sparkle and a wee liqueur after dinner (gin purists look away!) then they’ll love to receive one of this year’s Marks and Spencer’s collection of Snow Globe Gin Liqueurs. Since they first introduced their sell-out bottles last year, they have expanded their range to include new flavours and even a monster 1.5L bottle that not only lights up to show off the shimmering 24ct edible gold leaf but also plays a festive Christmas tune! From cracker sets to mixed cases, there’s something for everyone on your Christmas list!

ABV: 20%
Size: 50ml to 1.5L
Find here: £32 - £120

CRAFT GIN CLUB SUBSCRIPTION

The gift that keeps on giving! It will give your gin lover surprises all through the year and you MAJOR brownie points! You can purchase a no-contract subscription to the Craft Gin Club that will send that lucky person a gin box from every quarter to every month. This box is great not only for the fabulous gins which are always full size, and often exclusive distillery releases for club members, but the amazing range of extra snacks, cocktail ingredients, tonics, garnishes and the gin magazine that comes with it.

ABV: Variable
Size: 700ml
Find here: £40 per box

ROCK ROSE REFILL REWARDS CLUB

Following on from the subscription idea, Scottish distillers Dunnet Bay have gone one step further and have set up a refill club. All you need is an empty Rock Rose Gin bottle (buy them a full bottle to go with their refill subscription if they don’t already have one) and at intervals of your choosing from 3, 6 and 12 month memberships, they will send a refill pouch along with some other goodies for less than the cost of a bottle. The recipient can change the gins they receive (their Navy strength gin ROCKS) and once they’ve refilled just put the empty pouch directly back in the post to be fully recycled at source….make sure you have drained that pouch!

ABV: 41.5% - 57%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £30-£34 per refill

SECRET GARDEN CHRISTMAS GIN

Working hand in hand with nature being their ethos and with 600 herb varieties in their distillery garden at the foot of the Pentland hills, the folks at The Secret Garden distillery have created this absolute beaut of a Christmas gin that anyone would love to unwrap on the big day. It’s got all of those gorgeous warming Christmas spices, 100% natural ingredients and no added sugar which obviously means extra chocs can be consumed with no guilt, right?! A really simple serve is all that’s needed as this gin speaks for itself so add lots of ice, light tonic and a slice of orange for that perfect festive tipple!

ABV: 39%
Size: 500ml
Find here: £36.95

See our other Christmas guides on red wines, rum, white wine and more!

The Most Popular Gin Cocktails

The distinct, botanical taste of gin is not only something to be admired - but also something that can be built upon in a tasty cocktail. Whether you want something fruity, something bitter, or just something to appreciate the deep flavours of gin, a cocktail is a perfect way to show your love for this beautiful spirit. We’ve lined up our favourite gin cocktails and given you some recipes so you can get cracking!

Martini

Gin at its utmost classiest: the martini is one to drink pensively while sitting in a hotel bar (though a living room will do) thinking of your lost lover and the expanse of poetry yet to be written… Basically, it’s a bit dramatic but seriously cool. Learning how to make the perfect martini is an impressive skill to be proud of, so start practicing now!

Ingredients
50ml gin
12.5ml dry vermouth
lemon twist or olives for garnish 

Method
Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with cracked ice, stir (sorry James B) vigorously for 30 seconds and strain into a pre-cooled martini glass. Garnish with either a twist of lemon or a couple of olives. Enjoy!

Negroni

The negroni, another simple but perfect gin cocktail that’s boozy, bitter and moreish. The blend of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari is enough to make your mouth water just at the stunning, scarlet sight of one! Cheers!

Ingredients
25ml gin
25ml sweet vermouth
25ml Campari
orange slice for garnish 

Method
Add ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir for 20-30 seconds until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass. Add large ice cubes and garnish with a slice of orange.

Gin Fizz

If you like frothy, foamy cocktails then the Gin Fizz is for you. It’s sweet with a tart kick from the lemon and a delicate botanical finish from the gin. In our opinion, it’s a bit like a lemon meringue pie in a cocktail! If you love that dessert and also love gin (like us) whip up one of these today for something delicious that will quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients
50ml gin
25ml lemon juice
2 tsp sugar syrup
1 egg white or 2tbsp aquafaba
lemon slice for garnish 

Method
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice for 15 seconds. Add ice and shake for another 30 seconds. Strain into a tall glass and carefully garnish with a lemon slice!

French 75

New fact for the day, the French 75 is actually named after a gun that was used by the French and Americans in WW1 and was noted for its speed and accuracy. Why, then, is it used to describe a cocktail?! According to the inventors, this drink hits you as accurately and quickly as the ‘French 75’ - so watch out! Champagne and gin might at first seem like a weird combination, but seeing (or tasting) is believing! Mix up some of these at a party for a proper show stopper!

Ingredients
25ml gin
12.5ml lemon juice
12.5ml simple syrup
champagne
lime twist for garnish 

Method
Add the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker and shake with ice. Double strain into a champagne flute and top up with champagne. Garnish with a lime twist and enjoy!

Gin and Tonic

This is the simplest and simultaneously the most customisable gin cocktail EVER. You won’t have to go hunting for expensive ingredients or spend hours crafting the perfect foam, the G&T is all about you. There’s so many different tonics out there now that we’re certain you’ll find something you’ll adore. If you’re a gin connoisseur, try working out the best pairings of tonics and gins! When it comes to garnishes, it’s again all about personal preference (and what you have in the cupboard/fridge/garden). Go wild and have fun! 

Ingredients
25ml or 50ml gin
any tonic that takes your fancy
any garnish that takes your fancy 

Method
Add the gin to the bottom of a large glass and fill with ice. Top up with tonic until the taste is to your liking, give it a gentle stir and garnish with anything you want! You do you!

Aviation Cocktail

Despite its name, this cocktail won’t induce instant flying abilities. We’re yet to find a cocktail that does - but in the meantime why not crack out the crème de violette and make this beautiful purple cocktail that’ll at least have your heart soaring!

Ingredients
50ml gin
12.5ml crème de violette
12.5ml maraschino liqueur
20ml lemon juice
brandied cherry or lemon twist for garnish 

Method
Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously until cold. Strain into a glass of your choice and garnish with a brandied cherry or lemon twist. Up, up and away!

Bramble

If you want to make the very best version of this cocktail, we suggest you make it with foraged blackberries, but if that’s not an option store bought is completely fine! This cocktail will have you feeling like you’re sitting in the garden of your tiny remote cottage in the woods communicating with your animal friends, dressed head to toe in gingham. Bring out the checkered tablecloth, make a blackberry pie and enjoy this Bramble cocktail with all your foresty foraging friends…

Ingredients
50ml gin
25ml lemon juice
6 blackberries
25ml sugar syrup
lemon slice and blackberries for garnish 

Method
Muddle blackberries in a rocks glass and add gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup. Fill the glass with crushed ice and mix with a bar spoon. Garnish with a lemon slice and blackberries!

Clover Club

Legend has it that the Clover Club is named after a top-secret organisation concerned with, and only with, raspberry liqueur. Okay, maybe that’s made up - but that doesn’t stop this cocktail being our favourite way to use raspberry liqueur! It’s fruity, bright and a little sharp, guaranteed to having you party all night long…

Ingredients
75ml gin
1½ tbsp raspberry liqueur
25ml lemon juice
1 egg white or 2tbsp aquafaba
lemon twist or raspberry for garnish 

Method
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice for 15 seconds. Add ice and shake for another 30 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a lemon twist or raspberry!

Not found anything you like here? Make sure to have a look at The Best Gins to Try This Year and What Are Colour Changing Gins?!

What is Sloe Gin?

The most quintessentially British liqueur - sloe gin has been made for hundreds of years all across the country. But what is it exactly? Sloe gin is high-proof gin that has been infused with sloe berries and a little sugar to create a rich, warming liqueur perfect for autumn and winter!

The reason this liqueur is so popular in Britain is because, to put it simply, we’ve got a ton of sloe berries around! Very common in hedgerows, the sloe berry is a purplish blue colour and has a sharp and extremely astringent taste. Perhaps this not so tasty flavour is why they started being used in gin rather than in pies! Because they are so common, they’re quite easy to pick yourself to make a lovely home-cooked liqueur! If that sounds up your street, that’s great - we’ve got a recipe for you. If that sounds incredibly scary, however, fear not, we’ve got a list of some of our favourite pre-made sloe gins! 

How Do You Make Sloe Gin?

Ingredients
500g ripe sloe berries
250g golden caster sugar
1l gin
patience 

Method
Rinse the sloes under cold running water and examine them for any mouldy ones. Pat the sloes dry with a dry tea towel and, using a fork, prick the berries*. Tip the berries into a cooled, sterilized 2L jar, or split between two 1L jars. Add the sugar and gin and close the jar. Shake well. Every day for a week, pick up the jar(s) and give a good shake.
Store the jar(s) in a cool, dark place for 2-3 months to infuse. After the months are up (phew), line a plastic sieve with a muslin cloth and place over a bowl. Strain the gin through the cloth and decant into sterilised bottles. Seal and label! 
You can drink this gin right away, though the flavour will improve over time. If you’d like, try leaving the gin bottled for a year!

*Handy tip - if you freeze the berries they will naturally split themselves.

Which Sloe Gin Should I Try?

For those not feeling the foraging vibe, fear not. There are plenty of places where you can pick up a bottle of ready made sloe gin. Here are four of our favourites…

Hayman’s Sloe Gin

Hayman’s is the longest serving gin distilling family in England, starting in 1863. Their sloe gin is made by steeping their original recipe gin with sloe berries and sugar in the traditional way. Hayman’s is a perfectly balanced, smooth sloe gin with a bittersweet plum flavour that tastes great with lemon, a little sugar syrup and tonic.

ABV: 26%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £25.20

Plymouth Sloe Gin

Plymouth Sloe Gin is a version of their original Plymouth gin steeped in sloe berries and blended with Dartmouth water. It’s a wonderfully crisp and fruity sloe gin and has a natural berry flavour. Plymouth is one of the most popular sloe gins out there and a big favourite of bartenders and sloe gin lovers alike.

ABV: 26%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £25.39 // US $54.99

6 O’Clock Sloe Gin

6 O’Clock Sloe Gin doesn’t have to be drunk at 6pm, but it’s quite cool if you do. Using the tried and tested method of a high sloe to gin ratio, 6 O’Clock Sloe Gin has a dry and fruit flavour with warming spice. All the sloe berries are handpicked near the distillery in Gloucester, Bramley and Gage.

ABV: 26%
Size: 700ml
Find it here: £24.66

Gentleman Badger’s Sloe Gin

We LOVE the label on this sloe gin, the badger just looks so sophisticated in his top hat. From Thames Distillers, Gentleman’s Badger Sloe Gin is made with a base of Colonel Fox London Dry Gin. It’s beautifully fruity and jammy without being too sweet!

ABV: 26%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £25.25

If you are looking for more delicious gin recommendations, then take a look at The Best Gins for a G&T, The Best Gins for a Martini or The Best Ready Made Garnishes for a Gin and Tonic.

The Best Gin for a G&T

The G&T: a timeless drink that isn’t going out of style anytime soon (if ever)! Though its endless combinations of tonic and garnishes make it brilliant for innovation, a good G&T always comes down to a good gin. Here are some of our favourites:

Sing Gin

As its name suggests, this is a gin guaranteed to make you burst into song when you first get a taste of those distinct florals and tantalising freshness. Distilled in small batches, Sing Gin is crafted to perfection in the Dales village of Kettlesing (which is also where it gets its name from). Spin up a ‘Sing and Tonic’ today with Fever-Tree Mediterranean and a mint or orange garnish!

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find it here: £38.50

Atlas Chai Gin

Created a mere 6 months ago, Atlas already has an award-winning gin under its belt… and we’ve got to say, we’re not surprised at all! Inspired by Masala Chai, this gin has a mix of the ingredients you would expect to find in a traditional recipe including cinnamon, sweet green cardamom and Assam black tea to name a few. The result is a perfectly balanced, warming and spicy gin with a subtle background sweetness. If you are looking to make a standout G&T then this gin is a great one to experiment with - try mixing it with premium Indian tonic and garnishing with an orange slice and slither of ginger to compliment that spicy warmth of the gin. Nom nom!

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £48

Elephant London Dry Gin

Inspired by South Africa and made in Germany, Elephant London Dry features African botanicals alongside traditional botanicals, giving this gin a fresh and unique flavour. Not only does this gin taste A-MA-ZING, it’s also doing something good for the environment! With each bottle sold, 15% of the profits will go towards elephant conservation charities such as Big Life Foundation. So far, Elephant Gin has raised over €500,000 for these charities. Try this gin with tonic and an apple garnish to elevate the apple flavours throughout!

ABV: 45%
Size: UK 500ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £31.80 // US $46.79

Penrhos Limited Edition Hibiscus Gin

Penrhos is already a very well established distillery with beautifully crafted gin, but their Limited Edition Hibiscus for Aldi is a real treat. Penrhos Gin is made by two Herefordshire-based fruit farmers who use unwanted fruit to create the gin, meaning each sip you drink is reducing food waste (we’ll cheers to that)! This Hibiscus Gin has wonderful notes of blueberry, so we recommend garnishing this G&T with a nice helping of blueberries!

ABV: 37.5%
Size: 70cl
Find it here: £17.99

Cantium Gin

From first glance, you might not have realised that Cantium was even a gin! If it looks like it’s masquerading as a flask - that’s because it is! Once finished, the bottle can be used as a reusable flask to keep hot or cold liquids in. A plan is underway for customers who return their flasks to be given a discount on their next purchase, and for these empty flasks to be given to local homelessness charities. Cantium is a bold, citrusy gin underpinned by soft spice, juniper and the feeling that you’ve done a little good in the world… We love this gin with an elderflower tonic and garnish of juniper berries!

ABV: 42%
Size: 500ml
Find it here: £39.95

Ealing Gin

If there’s a theme with many of the gins on this list, it’s a gin that not only tastes great but does some good at the same time. It’s not just the beautiful bottle that Ealing Gin gives to the world, but 20% of Ealing Distillery’s profits go to organisations that help to reduce social isolation (something that is more important now than ever). Ealing Gin has a sophisticated flavour, with a zesty edge mixing with warm spices. We love this gin with a light tonic and a grapefruit and rosemary garnish - YUM!

ABV: 42%
Size: 70cl
Find it here: £44.50

Malfy Gin Rosa

If you’ve missed out on a holiday this year (shakes fist angrily at the sky), just one sip of Malfy Gin Rosa is going to take you on a relaxing European journey that’ll leave you wondering why you’re sitting at home and not on the Amalfi Coast. Malfy Gin Rosa has a beautiful aroma of rhubarb and fresh citrus, with the palate giving rich grapefruit and a long juniper finish. This is served best with Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic, grapefruit, rosemary and massive sunglasses… 

ABV: 41%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £28.85 // US $27.99

Tanqueray No. Ten Gin

You’ll already know this name, but perhaps not this particular bottle. Tanqueray No. 10 is the brand’s small batch gin, and the only gin to be added to the San Francisco World Spirits Competition Hall of Fame. Keeping the same signature green but perhaps offering a more elegant bottle design, Tanqueray No. 10 is distilled with whole citrus fruits and chamomile flavours to give an extra citrusy but smooth feel to this premium gin. Because of the citrus kicks this gin gives you, we can’t help but add a little wedge of grapefruit to our No. 10 G&T - but feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits!

ABV: 47.3%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £30.60 // US $48.99

Lind and Lime Gin

This is not the first time we’ve told you of our passion for Lind and Lime, and it certainly won’t be the last. If anything, the history of this gin is something to be admired. Lind and Lime is named after James Lind, a Scotsman accredited to performing the world’s first clinical trial when he worked towards the eradication of scurvy in the British Navy. The ‘Lime’ in the name refers to a lime cordial that was created based on his findings which helped nurse the sickly sailors back to health. History aside, this gin both looks and tastes great - with a crisp citrus edge surrounding deep juniper notes. To honour the name and the legacy of Lind, garnish your Lind and Lime G&T with a thick wedge of lime.

ABV: 44%
Size: 70cl
Find it here: £34.95

For more gin-spiration, check out our Best Gins to Try This Year or if you’re in more of a cocktail mood how about having a look at these Negroni Cocktail Recipes?

The Best Scottish Gins To Buy

Though known for its legendary whisky, Scotland has a bustling gin scene sprawling through its stunning landscape. It’s not just small brands made in Scotland, many large and well-known gins are produced in Scotland too - including bartender favourite Tanqueray!

Here’s a list of some of the best Scottish gins:

Glaswegin

We do love a play on words here, especially a portmanteau, and Glaswegin is giving that to us! With its dazzling geometric bottle designed by award-winning Glaswegian designer Paul Gray, this gin immediately catches the eye. Glaswegin includes 8 different botanicals carefully chosen by the team (milk thistle, Italian juniper, Russian coriander, angelica, orange flower, camomile flower, pink peppercorns and bay leaf - phew!). Fun fact, milk thistle is sometimes said to prevent hangovers - but we’re not making any promises! 

Smooth and fresh, this gin is really versatile when it comes to the serving. Why not try a G&T with elderflower tonic, or light tonic and a shot of elderflower liqueur!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.1%
Find here: £37.20

All out of your Glaswegin? Don’t buy another bottle, check out the brand’s refill packs and reuse your original bottle! Find them here: £29.95

Lind and Lime Gin

Another beautiful bottle, Lind and Lime does not disappoint when it comes to presentation. Lind and Lime won best London Dry in the 2020 Scottish Gin Awards, and when you taste the crisp citrus notes surrounding its juniper core you can understand why. Lind and Lime is named after James Lind, a Scotsman who worked towards the prevention of scurvy in the British Navy. He’s even said to have performed the first clinical trial in history! The ‘Lime’ in the name doesn’t indicate a flavour persay, but refers to a lime cordial created in Leith which helped prevent scurvy.

History aside, celebrate the eradication of scurvy by using Lind and Lime in a French 75 - you won’t regret it!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £34.95

Persie Spaniel Gin

Persie has been a fan favourite for a while now and the husband and wife team behind the gin keep going up in the world. In 2019, Spaniel Gin achieved a Silver Medal for contemporary Flavoured Gin at the Scottish Gin Awards, and just last year Scottish Field magazine named it one of the Top 10 Scottish Gins. Spaniel gin is one of Persie’s four Charity Dog Gins, each inspired by and named after a different breed. Dachshund Gin Liqueur, Labrador Gin, Dog Days Gin and Spaniel Gin all donate £1 per bottle to PADS (Perthshire Abandoned Dogs Society).

We’ve chosen Spaniel Gin as we love the mace and cinnamon warmth that this gin has, while still being silky soft (just like a well-groomed Spaniel!). This is a brilliant gift for a Spaniel owner/enthusiast and the spices make it ideal for a warming Negroni.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £30.95

Crofter’s Tears Highland Gin

Despite the name, this gin is not made up of the tears of crofters. The purple heather flowers on the bottle not only make it an elegant addition to your gin bottle collection but also signpost an important element of this gin. The heather tips can only be harvested in July and August and are handpicked to be blended with juniper and a range of other botanicals. 

Highland Gin is made in a London Dry style and has a hint of fresh lime to its flavour. Try this in a classic G&T with Mediterranean tonic water and a twist of lime. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £37.99

The Botanist

This gin is rapidly taking over the shelves of pubs and bars across Britain and you’ve almost certainly seen it featured on one of those extensive gin lists your local decided to create when it ‘rebranded’ and all the decor turned a sage colour. Not that we’re complaining - bring on the gin! The Botanist is exclusively made on the remote Scottish island of Islay. The 22 botanicals are foraged by the Botanist team on Islay, including botanicals such as creeping thistle, apple mint, wood sage and white clover.

The Botanist blend is satin smooth, with sweet and earthy tones combining with delicate florals and herbals. The complexity of the gin is best tasted in a classic G&T - tonic is up to you!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: UK £35.10 // US $47.99

Rock Rose Gin

Created by Dunnet Bay Distillers, this gin was formulated after 55 experiments - meaning it’s seriously good. The meticulously adapted blend of botanicals makes for a full-bodied, well-rounded gin full of fruity berries and juniper. The finish is slightly sharp but smoothed out by sherbet lemon notes. 

This earthy gin needs little interference, however adding a twist of orange in your G&T really brings out the sweetness in the berries. If you’re not looking for the sweet notes, try a sprig of rosemary instead.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £33.39

All out of your Rock Rose? Don’t buy another bottle, check out the brand’s refill packs and reuse your original bottle! Find them here: £30

Classic Edinburgh Gin

Another gin you may have heard of before, Edinburgh Gin’s premixed G&Ts are a big hit all over the country. However, why not make your own cocktails with their bottled London Dry. The 14 botanicals make this gin beautifully aromatic on the tongue, with floral lavender and lemongrass. The bright punch of citrus from the orange peel works alongside the juniper to create a smooth and rounded finish. Edinburgh Gin is always coming out with new flavours and interesting campaigns - they are currently doing a collaboration with award winning actress and writer Phoebe Waller Bridge!

The Classic is still our favourite, however, and deserves to be showcased in a big gin bowl with a tonic and a twist of orange. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: £26.35

Isle of Harris Gin

It seems Scottish gin cannot exist without being inside a beautiful bottle! The swirling bottle of Isle of Harris Gin echoes its birthplace’s whirls of wind that rush off the sea and into the arms of the towns. One does feel a connection to the sea when drinking this gin, with the addition of hand-harvested Sugar Kelp giving it an apt maritime twist. Fruit flavours of grapefruit, orange and mango are balanced by bitter pine and juniper and leave a dry, clean finish.

Harris Distillery recommends you take this gin neat, or over large ice cubes. They also offer a Sugar Kelp Aromatic Water, a drop of which develops the maritime essence of the drink.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 45%
Find it here: UK £40

For more gin-spiration (like what we did there?!), how about having a read through The Best Gins to Try This Year, What are Colour Changing Gins?! or The Best Gins for a Martini?

What are Colour Changing Gins?!

Are you a magician with a side job as a bartender? A bartender with a side job as a magician..? Or, perhaps you just like cool gin… Whatever your profession, you NEED to know about this mind-blowing ginnovation (we’re leaving a moment here for you to applaud that incredible portmanteau). 

Colour changing gins are here and multiplying like rabbits exposed to radiation. Most are made by infusing the gin with a deep indigo flower called ‘butterfly pea’. Butterfly pea has been used as a tea for a long time in South East Asia, but is now making its way into gins and cocktails. The liquid acts as a pH indicator, changing from blue to purple when acidity is introduced (for example in the form of lemon juice). As butterfly pea is an all natural colouring, try not to expose your gin to sunlight as the indigo colour will fade over time.

These theatrical but all natural effects make butterfly pea a perfect addition to showy cocktails or a fancy G&T. Butterfly pea also has little flavour, so it won’t take away from the botanicals too much. We’ve lined up some of the best colour changing gins here:

The Illusionist Gin

If by any chance you do happen to be a magician, this German gin is the perfect choice for you. A beautiful deep indigo colour, this gin becomes a warm violet with the addition of tonic or citrus. Not only is the colour changing effect magical, but the packaging is stunning in its own right. Arriving in an indigo and gold box with a matte black bottle and engraved cork, The Illusionist certainly has an eye for detail. To drink, the Illusionist is very smooth and delicate. If you find the juniper bite of gin a little much at times and prefer a floral taste, you’ll love The Illusionist’s light flavour. 

ABV: 45%
Size: 500ml
Find it here: £37.90

Ellis Butterfly Pea Gin and Scottish Bramble Gin

We love a Scottish gin over here, and Ellis Gin does not let the side down with their two colour changing gins. The Butterfly Pea Gin shifts from blue to purple, and their Scottish Bramble shifts from red to orange. It’s not often you see a colour changing gin that isn’t made with butterfly pea, but Ellis Gin has pulled it off with their Scottish Bramble! We recommend trying the Scottish Bramble with ginger beer as it’s a little spicy and the Butterfly Pea with some elderflower tonic to enhance the floral notes. Support Scottish gin today and pick up some Ellis!

Butterfly Pea: Scottish Bramble:
ABV: 40% ABV: 40%
Size: 500ml Size: 500ml
Find it here: £29.95 Find it here: £29.95

Empress 1908 Gin

If you’re looking for a classy gin that’ll make you feel like royalty, Empress 1908 Gin is the way to go. Empress Gin is crafted with eight different botanicals, including grapefruit peel, rose petal and a signature tea home to the gin’s namesake: The Empress Hotel in Canada. This gin is both delicate, opulent and a delight to look at. It’s also a great excuse for a royal themed party!

ABV: 42.5%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £42.50 // US $47.99

McQueen Colour Changing Gin

When it comes to colour changing gin, or just gin in general, the Scots have knocked it out of the park. McQueen Colour Changing Gin does exactly what it says on the tin and more, with the smooth blackcurrant blend creating a sensory experience as pleasing as the visual one! It’s a soft and subtle gin, especially with the addition of tonic - but that makes it no less worthy of a showstopping G&T bound to marvel your guests.

ABV: 37.5%
Size: 700ml
Find it here: £22.95

Pink Marmalade Gin

Many of the gins on this list start as a dark indigo colour, but Pink Marmalade Gin begins as a much more vibrant Bombay Sapphire-esque blue and turns a light shade of violet. What is really astounding about this gin, however, is its construction. As its name suggests, Pink Marmalade Gin is made in micro batches using a signature salted marmalade made with grapefruit which is then infused with 12 botanicals including pink peppercorns, almond and chamomile. This complex flavour profile lets you know that Pink Marmalade is first and foremost a gin of quality, not gimmicks.

ABV: 42%
Size: 700ml
Find it here: £38.95

Ink Gin

We’re not 100% sure whether or not you can actually use this gin as ink, but why would you want to? An Australian gin, Ink Gin uses locally grown botanicals to create its fresh piney, spicy and citrus aroma and flavour. The long finish of this gin leaves the palate crisp, clean, and yearning for another sip. Husk Distillers, the distillery that creates Ink Gin, also have a non-colour changing but deep red Sloe and Berry Gin on offer which is definitely worth checking out (and it’s a lower alcohol choice).

ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Find it here: £36.95

Looking for more Gin content? Why not have a read of The Best Gins To Try This Year, The Best Gins For A Martini or The Best Flavoured Gins For Your Money?

The Best Ready-Made Garnishes for G&Ts

Say goodbye to the same-old lemon slivers, twists of orange, slices of cucumber – G&T garnishes just entered the 21st century. You heard us: a whole new world of unique, flavourful and (thank the heavens!) ready-made garnishes are out there to help up your G&T game with almost zero effort. They don’t only make drinks taste great, they let you customise them, making that Gin & Tonic one-of-a-kind… 

Rock Rose Gin Liquid Garnishes

Forgot to stock up on lemons? No problem: pop a few drops of Rock Rose’s ‘liquid garnish’ – a 41.5% ABV concoction akin to a cocktail bitter – into your G&T, and you’ve instantly got the bright, aromatic hit you’re craving. The four flavours are designed to go with Rock Rose’s own Highland-made gins, but in truth they enhance just about any G&T. Our go-to for summer? The slightly medicinal Lemon Thyme (a hint of gentian, popularly used in vermouth, gives it a gorgeous bitter edge). And, Coriander and Lime – one squeeze is as good as a wedge of fresh-cut citrus.

Size: 100ml
ABV: 41.5%
Fine here: £12

Hepple Douglas Fir Sherbet

Cocktail rims are just for margaritas: said no one ever. Bring the party to your G&Ts with this moreish Douglas Fir Sherbet powder from Hepple Gin, made with real fir tree needles. Sampled straight, it tastes a bit like a sugar-dusted Christmas tree. Applied sparingly to a glass, and paired with gin and tonic, it mellows, becomes tangier and boosts your drink’s resinous, piney juniper notes. It’s a no-brainer with Hepple Gin – it stars Douglar Fir as a botanical – but this should go with any rich, juniper-forward bottling. Note: we found it hard to resist snacking straight from the tin… you have been warned.

Find here: £12.50

Fruits for Drinks – Mixed Fruit Selection

When it comes to flavour concentration, freeze-dried fruits can often knock fresh ones out of the park. And – pop the celebration corks, folks – they don’t really go off, which means less waste. Plump for this set of six types of dried fruit (lime, orange, lemon, raspberry, blueberry and strawberry) and no matter which gin you’re serving, you’ll have a garnish to match the flavour profile. With an average of 120 portions in each set, it’s better value than fresh fruit too and should keep you going on the G&T front for months.

Find here: £39.50

Maddocks Farm Organics Budding Floral Cocktail Box

Not that you need a reason to treat yourself to a bouquet of blooms, but edible flower garnishes look fabulous in a G&T – floating delicately on the surface, or frozen into giant ice cubes. Of course, you can’t use just anything in that drink (some flowers are toxic, others don’t taste great). That’s where edible flower specialist Maddocks Farm comes in. They sell cocktail-perfect, 100% edible seasonal blooms in boxes of around 60, and they also throw in scrumptious edible foliage such as lemon verbena stalks or fennel fronds. That G&T has never looked more fabulous.

Find here: £20

DrinkStuff Juniper Berries

Gin plus juniper berries – a match made in heaven, right? If in doubt, a sprinkling of dried juniper berries not only adds flavour, it makes your G&Ts feel like they’ve been whipped up in a trendy bar. As you’d probably guess, the berries – which look similar to black peppercorns – give an extra lift to the resinous, piney flavour that this spirit is known for. In other words: it’s best left to those who really like classic gin profiles. Just be sure to sip with care; the aim is to leave the berries behind in the glass, not guzzle ‘em down with your G&T.

Find here: £2.80

Wondering which gin to pair with your garnishes? Then, take a look at The Best Flavoured Gins for your Money or these Stunning Scottish Gins.

The Best Gins To Buy for Christmas

Gin will arguably be the most sold ‘gift’ spirit in 2020 given it has and continues to take the world by storm. Often times, gins can be a little bit one dimensional, so we set ourselves the mission of finding a variety of wondrous and whimsical creations to tantalise your tastebuds and reflect the true quality of this category. We’ve gone off the beaten path in some cases to seek out some true delights, ensuring there’s a little something for everyone along the way. Your only mission now is to find the tonic and garnish to match ;)

Etsu Japanese Gin

Say hello to the first Hokkaido based gin from Japan that has made its way overseas. The Asahikawa distillery on this Nothern island has taken somewhat of a tradition route on the botanicals (green bitter orange peel, coriander, liquorice and angelica route) but they boast a very traditional Japanese flavour profile which makes this gin anything but ‘standard’. 

Citrus, yuzu and light floral blossom notes hit you on the nose with peppers, green tea, meadow berries, more yuzu and sansho pepper on the palate. Super refreshing in style and perfect if you want to spice up your martini game. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £49

Tarsier Gin

There are so many gins out there on the market right now that differentiating between flavours has become a real problem. What I love about Tarsier is that they put that to bed immediately. These gins are inspired by travels across The Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and boy can you tell.

Their first bottle of discussion, the Southeast Asian Dry Gin takes inspiration from the white sands of Boracay all the way to the bustling streets of Saigon. Citrus forward with aromatic and savoury notes that cascade into a long peppery finish. Mix this with Artisan Mixers Classic London tonic (pack of 4 for £6) for the perfect G&T.

Then there’s the Oriental Pink Gin – inspired by the tropical rainforests of Indonesia to the floating markets of Thailand and beyond. This beauty is bursting with dragon fruit, lychee, raspberry and floral notes. There is nothing else like it on the market and it makes one of the best gin sours I’ve had the fortune of tasting – throw in a little peach syrup to your gin sour recipe for a real treat. 

Lastly, we can’t fail to mention that 10% of all their profits are committed to the Philippine Tarsier Foundation on the island of Bohol, Philippines to help support these tiny little primates. Excellent gin and a chance to help out those gorgeous tarsiers… we’ll have another bottle, please!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40% - 45%
Special treat: Use the code ‘THREEDRINKERS’ to get 10% off orders over £30 
Find here: £34.99 - £37.99

Persie Gin

This wonder is located in Perthshire up in Scotland. What I love about them is the approachability when it comes to their offerings AND the charitable focus they have on helping vulnerable cats and dogs. Every Christmas thousands of animals are purchased as a novelty and then just discarded. By supporting this company you are actively helping combat that, all while tasting some bloody great gin. 

The range itself is split into two categories – ‘Distillery Originals’ and ‘Charity Releases’. Let’s start with the originals, Zesty Citrus, Herby & Aromatic and last but not least Sweet & Nutty Old Tom. Each one caters to a particular taste preference (or like me, just get all three and play with different tonics until you find the perfect match). 

Then there are the charity bottles which go right back to helping our lovely furry friends. The pussycat vodka entices a velvety and silky smooth mouthfeel, with a kiss of herbs and black pepper, and with a variety of charity dog gins/gin liqueurs to choose from, each paired to the personality of three pups; Labradors, Spaniels and Dachshunds, you really are spoiled for choice!

 Size: 50cl - 4.5L
ABV: 23% - 44%
Fine here: £25 - £299

Inspirited Gin: Create Your OWN Gin

With so many different gins out there, personalisation really is the future and Inspirited have hit the nail on the head with their ‘create your own’ discovery where you can create your very own bottle complete with unique botanicals. Yep, you choose your own spice, fruits, citrus, floral, nutty and exotic botanicals to distil up a creation that you and you alone have decided upon. There’s a growing number of experiences like this, but Inspirited is top of the game. They also offer a fantastic range of gins that are well worth checking out for some inspiration before you make your own!

Size: 70cl
ABV: 37.5% -57.1%
Find here: £31.99 - £49.99

Mistral Rosé Gin

From the beautiful lavender lands of Provence. 12 botanicals including local wonders such as thyme, basil, mint and eucalyptus create this lovely pink gin. I’d say this works wonders with more Mediterranean themed tonics. If you can’t travel to the sunny slopes of Provence given the impending global doom this year, and, probably next, you may as well drink them instead. Elegant, full of juicy flavours and perfect with a slice of pink grapefruit as a garnish. 

Size: 70cl - 4.5L
ABV: 40%
Find here:  £38 - £265

Oxford Artisan Distillery

These folks are pioneers of total creativity and are often seen in the news having come up with yet another whimsically delish creation. From Christmas pudding Rye and Rye Absinthe to Madeira Vodka and Ver Viola Gin, they’ve got it all. These folks are perfect for your friends or relatives who love something on the curiosity (yet bloody tasty) side – or simply for yourself if you’re looking to add a little vibrancy to your spirits collection.

Size: 20cl - 70cl
ABV: 22% - 70.5%
Find here:  £20 - £70

Northern Fox Gin

YORKSHIRE! – Okay, I’m a little biased based on the location, but once you try the gin you’ll be converted yourself. With a selection of 6 perfectly crafted imbibes, there’s a little something for everyone here too. The Yorkshire Dry and Pink gin are both a treat, but if you’re looking to venture a little more niche check out the Liquorice Root, Yorkshire Honeyberry or Yorkshire Citrus styles too! Wait, there’s more… they even have a Roasted Coffee Gin. So if you’re torn between buying single origin coffee beans or gin for someone who loves both… your dilemma has just been solved. 

Size: 50cl
ABV: 40% - 45%
Find here: £34 - £36

BEAUFORT SMOKED SIPPING GIN

Here’s something a little bit different and for all the right reasons. Inspired by Heston Blumenthal, Beaufort Spirit have created a ‘whisky barrel’ smoked water as part of their Smoked Sipping Gin. Szechuan pepper, pink pepper and citrus oils combine once poured to give the illusion of gunpowder smouldering in the glass. At 57% this gin certainly passes the ‘gunpowder’ test and has taken its place as the new ‘big smoke’ in town. Definitely one to discover if you like sipping gins. 

ABV: 57%
Size: 500ml
Find here: £40

Salcombe Gin & Seamist liquid garnish gift set 

The award-winning Salcombe Distilling Co. has launched ‘Seamist’; a unique liquid garnish inspired by the South West coast to elevate your favourite festive cocktails. Handcrafted with red grapefruit, coastal botanicals and Cornish sea salt, a small spray of Seamist over your drink is designed to transport you to the South West shoreline and the crisp aroma of its salty sea air.

Size: 10cl Seamist 70cl Salcombe gin
ABV: 60% Seamist 44% Salcombe gin
Gift idea: Find Seamist alone for £22 for 10cl or treat someone to a luxury gift set with both the ‘Start Point’ gin and the Seamist liquid garnish for £55.
Find here: £22 - £55

Mooze low alcohol and low calorie gin - ABV 12%

A great concept from founder Mel Sims, this is a much lower alcohol (and therefore calorie) gin than the usual suspects of around 40% ABV. It does a great job at keeping the mouthfeel, crispness and botanical flavour of a full proof gin too and is a perfect way to be a little more mindful about your consumption. It’s also vegan, sugar and sweetener free so all in all, that’s 36 calories for a double Mooze & Tonic compared to 154 for a regular double G&T plus less of a hangover. Win-win.

Size: 70cl Mooze alt gin
ABV: 12%
Gift idea: Can be sent to your recipient without pricing.
Find here: £24

Thinking about Christmas wine, vodka or whisky? Then don’t forget to take a look at our vodka, wine and whisky gift guides!