Plymouth Navy Strength Gin

I'm delighted to have learned about navy strength gin and was pleased to find this at my local shop, even though it was the only navy strength option available. The distiller's community seems to highly rate it, and while I find the quantity of botanicals used surprisingly low, perhaps simplicity is key to its appeal. Regardless, I'm enthusiastic and anticipate enjoying and purchasing more navy strength varieties as I take a break from other spirits. I was aware this would be a clear spirit, naturally, but the subtly tinted green glass bottle made my mind believe this gin was packed with flavor. The nose presents a balanced duality between citrus and floral notes, specifically hints of lime leaves, flower petals, lemon and lime peel, and some orange blossom. It might sound repetitive, but it's truly a simple back-and-forth between the nostrils, with the juniper lightly holding back, and the ethanol surprisingly not being very prominent at all. The citrus peel is the first flavor I notice, initially showcasing the oils, then fading to just the peel itself a few seconds later. The floral character is also present in the taste, but I can't identify anything specific, as it seems to remain a scent in the upper nasal passage rather than a distinct flavor. I detect only a mild to medium amount of juniper, and when I taste it closer to the finish, I might also perceive a faint tea leaf flavor, but it's very subtle. The finish provides a pleasant burn, as expected. The flavors linger on the gums, not in an oily fashion like some whiskies, but rather like a slow-release chew, similar to jerky. Indeed, the flavor profile of this gin was quite straightforward, but that certainly didn't diminish my enjoyment. Most gins I seek out have numerous botanicals or a strong emphasis on a particular profile, such as juniper, citrus, floral, or fruity. However, having a 'simple' gin like this can be a welcome change, regardless of how intensely one seeks out flavor. Because the juniper flavor isn't as potent as I would have preferred, it's challenging to imagine a typical gin while drinking this, yet it also allows the other botanicals to stand out more due to the higher proof. It certainly demonstrated to me that navy strength gins are worth exploring, and I look forward to not only buying more varieties but also trying this in classic cocktails, as I always review them neat. I've never really connected with sailors, but this is one tradition of theirs I will have to admire.

I purchased this some time ago and wanted to sample it in various drinks before reviewing it, especially since this will be the Gin's inaugural Rabble Review. Here we go. This is an outstanding and easily drinkable Gin. It's a Navy Strength version of the standard Plymouth Gin. However, the botanicals seem more potent and pronounced in this one. It has a wonderful juniper aroma with a mix of others, and citrus notes in the middle and finish. Now, if you drink this spirit, be prepared because of the difference in proofs; if you use the same ratios for your mixed drinks, you'll notice the strength very quickly. Plymouth NS makes an exceptional Gin and Tonic (I prefer mine with two lime wedges), and even with the higher proof, it goes down very smoothly. In my Martinis, I use a 3-to-1 ratio of gin to vermouth, and it will be incredibly potent with this gin. Dolin's and Noilly Prat ED are amazing with this gin. Lastly, a Gimlet was made for this spirit. The flavors harmonize perfectly, and on a warm South Carolina afternoon, it's a little taste of paradise. The only reason I didn't give it a higher score is its scarcity in the liquor stores around me; only one establishment carries it regularly. Overall, this is an outstanding Gin, and I will make every effort to keep it stocked at my home bar. If you appreciate the original, I believe you'll enjoy this one too.

Note: all tasting comments are based on samples served neat, without added water, unless specified otherwise. Light grapefruit, lemon, and lime zest on the nose, which carries through to the initial taste. Juniper makes a quick entrance, diminishes in intensity, yet persists throughout. It remains rich and sweet all the way, BUT... the mild and understated flavor profile belies the high alcohol content. While the burn is commendably low for the ABV (or perhaps I'm just accustomed to cask strength spirits), the distinct alcoholic signature from the copper still is more prominent than anticipated and conflicts with the otherwise exceptional palate. The balance of spice to sweetness is acceptable. With a small amount of water, the flavors became muted, and the alcohol/copper mixture became more noticeable. Although I generally don't drink anything on the rocks, that's the ideal way to enjoy this spirit. The flavors were still somewhat subdued, but so were the undesirable characteristics. As a mixer, this would be difficult to surpass.

Fruity, Juniper, and Intense Among the few older gins I've sampled, this is one where I taste more than just lemon as the fruit; I also detect berry flavors like blackcurrant or raspberry. Furthermore, this gin strikes me as sweet, similar to a soda-pop aftertaste when compared to others. Beyond that, it presents as a solid standard gin, complete with juniper. Finally, I should mention the intensity of this potent gin – at 57% ABV, it packs a punch, which I certainly notice. I have to admit, this 57% gin goes down more smoothly than many 40% gins I've tried. It's unique; it tastes like an exotic London Dry and is definitely worth sampling.

Aroma: Fragrances of flowers, juniper, and citrus (lemon, orange). Flavor: Echoes the aroma with prominent juniper and a floral conclusion. I am quite new to exploring Gin and have already sampled some I truly like and that stand out. This one feels rather ordinary and typical to me. I had anticipated the higher alcohol content would impart more complexity, but it only intensifies the common flavors. The tastes work well in most cocktails, though the strength can be overpowering. I don't usually sip gin straight, and this would be my least preferred option. It's an adequate mixer, but I'm not keen on purchasing it again.

This is powerful. Truly powerful. You can perceive the 114 proof. Juniper, citrus, and cardamom on the nose. Lemon on the tongue. Tasting it stings; it burns all the way down. Even with a bit of water. Curiously, it's not entirely unpleasant. Tried it in a Martini. Unremarkable. I prefer mine with a London Dry. Excellent in a Gimlet using 2 ounces of gin and 1 ounce of house-made lime cordial.