Tanqueray London Dry Gin

I have immense admiration for the history and straightforwardness of this spirit. It's believed to be made with only four botanicals, which aligns with its uncomplicated taste. However, don't confuse uncomplicated with dull – this is a bold spirit that makes its presence known. At 47% ABV, it's potent and prominently features juniper. While newer gins might emphasize other botanicals or citrus, this one sticks to its core identity. It's the definitive London Dry Gin experience: you want gin, you get juniper. Nothing more, nothing less. Actually, that's not entirely accurate. There are hints of coriander and other spices on the nose, though they all recede behind the powerful juniper aroma. I can't comment on angelica root as I haven't experienced it before. Personally, I couldn't detect licorice in the aroma. The flavor largely matches the scent. Juniper dominates, with coriander appearing subtly in the background. The finish offers some citrus zest and licorice notes. It lingers in the mouth, possessing a pleasant oily texture. This is indeed very dry, with no citrus sweetness to temper the juniper! In my opinion, this spirit defines the taste of gin. All other gins define themselves in relation to it, sometimes explicitly! Modern gins often aim to be the antithesis of this spirit. Yet, this is delicious, makes excellent gin and tonics, and is a staple for any collection. A true pleasure, and it's remarkable that a recipe with such a rich heritage is still produced today.

When I consider London dry gins, Tanqueray and Beefeater immediately come to mind. Beefeater is my usual choice, but I haven't sampled Tanqueray neat in quite some time, so perhaps it merits a spot next to Beefeater. The aroma is strongly dominated by juniper. I anticipated other notes appearing, but only the juniper was identifiable. The palate is somewhat oily, with some spice and again, juniper. I understand London dry gins are heavy on juniper, but this one seems to relentlessly emphasize it. The finish has some warmth and lingers for a considerable duration. I had greater expectations for this, but it clearly falls significantly behind Beefeater. Unfortunately, it's simply too one-note for my preference when drunk neat. It's also a bit pricier than Beefeater, so while it performs well in cocktails, particularly a martini, I don't see a reason to opt for it. Beefeater performs just as well in cocktails and better neat, while also being less expensive.

Compared to another brand, this gin is more restrained in its juniper character, though not overall in flavor. The juniper is still prominent but less dominant, with citrus taking a more significant role. It's not that the other gin is one-dimensional, but rather that this one achieves better harmony among its components; the juniper is always present but so well incorporated that it's difficult to discern where the other flavors and scents begin.

A vibrant, London Dry Gin from Tanqueray Distillery, crafted with the same formula since 1830, bottled at 47.3% ABV. It starts aromatically with hints of berries, fruits, herbs & spices; then a lively middle introduces notes of juniper oil, lemon & orange zest; concluding with a lengthy & refreshing end featuring a trace of cedar, anise, angelica, coriander & rosemary.

I anticipated bold flavors due to its high alcohol content. However, I was let down. It's possibly the most subdued gin on the nose, palate, and finish I have encountered, even less so than the entry-level offerings from Gordon's, Beefeater's, and Hayman's. Juniper and spice characteristics are very faint, with a ginger and lemon note being prominent. But it fades quickly.

A very reliable staple, among my favorite London Dry styles discovered so far. Given the limited number of botanicals, the complexity is remarkable; juniper is dominant but not overpowering, complemented by subtle hints of herbs and spice. It's quite smooth and versatile for a wide range of beverages.