Old Raj Dry Gin (55%)

Introduction: Old Raj 55% carries a deeply personal connection for me. It was introduced to me by a close friend, and he was the one who insisted I try the 110-proof version specifically. Ever since then, every time I see or pour Old Raj, I think of him. Beyond the sentiment, Old Raj is unusual because it isn’t fully clear — it has a faint golden tint from saffron added after distillation. That saffron influences both appearance and flavor, and it’s one of the things that sets Old Raj apart. This bottle has history, personality, and presence, and revisiting it feels long overdue. Nose: The nose on Old Raj is classic gin turned up a notch, stronger but not abrasive. There is bright, slightly bitter citrus peel that leans toward grapefruit, followed by warm spice notes including cinnamon, clove, and coriander seed. Juniper makes a firm appearance, and the higher proof gives everything a more aromatic lift without being sharp. It smells traditional but bold — a classic London dry profile with more intensity. Taste: The palate is strong but surprisingly controlled for 55% ABV. The saffron contributes a floral, lightly sweet, slightly spicy character right at the front. That moves quickly into sharper citrus, again resembling grapefruit peel with both brightness and a faint bitterness. Coriander seed adds earthiness, and the juniper runs steadily throughout without overpowering anything. The taste is bold, floral, spicy, and pleasantly bitter, with more structure and weight than most gins. Finish: The finish shifts much drier and spicier. There is tongue-tingling cinnamon, a touch of black tea tannin, and even a faint hint of leather. The higher proof keeps the finish long and warm, but it stays clean even as the flavors narrow into a more one-dimensional spicy dryness. Conclusion: Old Raj 110 is one of the higher-proof gins on the market, and at 55% ABV, it brings impressive intensity without ever becoming harsh. It is absolutely sippable neat, but the bold flavor and structure also makes it excellent for cocktails. Old Raj 110 is a premium gin, but if you’re used to collecting or exploring higher-end bottles, the price is justified. It’s versatile, memorable, and worth keeping in regular rotation.

Nose: Rich with warming, spicy scents. The opposite of vibrant, juniper-heavy gins. Coriander, cumin, allspice, turmeric, anise, juniper, and subdued citrus notes blend into one smooth aromatic character. Quite perfect. Palate: A smooth and slightly viscous entry that completely hides the 55% ABV. The taste is gentle (perhaps the saffron?) and clean, but not sharp; it's creamier in texture with fruity depth. Spices appear as you drink, yet it stays well-balanced. Finish: Extended. Subdued spices and sweet lemon slowly dissipate. This spirit is strong but not harsh. The palate is well-balanced, and sipping it straight is akin to tasting a cask-strength single malt. In fact, this spirit is rather pleasant with just a splash of plain water. Despite being labeled a dry gin, it's mellower on the palate than many, even a bit sweet. It truly excels in mixed drinks, and once the botanical oils are released by dilution and combined with quinine, it gains a liveliness and effervescence, allowing you to appreciate its considerable complexity. The warm spices remain consistent, and it can handle significant dilution before becoming overwhelmed. It doesn't pair well with citrus; adding lemon or lime introduces a sharp, metallic note to the finish. Excellent overall, but don't be surprised if your initial impression is underwhelming. It requires time to appreciate fully, and ultimately, deciding if the rather high cost is justified is a personal choice. "Very Good": 85/100 (4 stars)

Nose: Potent, with dominant notes of orange peel and pepper, some licorice, and always floral undertones. Palate: Consumed neat - I'm also a fan of whisky, and this is remarkably similar to tasting a cask strength whisky. Peppery and spicy on the tongue with a fruit peel bitterness, and after swallowing, the flavors return from the throat, revealing more fruit peel alongside herbs and a smoky aftertaste. The creamy texture is also unusual for gins and prolongs the flavors on the palate. With Tonic (Fever Tree) - the lighter notes emerge more, like floral with orange peel, and hints of cinnamon. Finish: Seems to last forever, with a very long-lasting pleasant bitterness of orange peel and juniper. Quite intriguing, and it's rare for a gin to be so enjoyable neat. Apologies for not precisely recalling the taste of saffron, but I suspect its inclusion contributed to the unique harmony of flavors.

Juniper and citrus on the nose, with light floral notes and spices in the background. Citrus, juniper, and a touch of ethanol on the palate. The floral quality continues, with spices like coriander and peppercorn appearing in a long, full finish. It has a full, oily mouthfeel and a hint of straw color in the bottle. At 55% ABV, it performs well in classic cocktails, but the citrus and underlying floral notes make it worthy of sipping on its own.

Strong orange peel aroma and flavor, moderate juniper, moderate spice, and plenty of ethanol on the nose, which is expected at 55%. Overall, it's a damn good gin if you prefer something less dominated by juniper/sage/pine and leaning more towards a flavored vodka.

Juniper aroma with hints of orange. Sweet juniper flavor with floral notes. Juniper and orange in the finish. The overall taste is reminiscent of Fruit Loops cereal. Thanks to a friend.