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Tanqueray Malacca Gin
Tanqueray

Tanqueray Malacca Gin

4.07 Good

55 reviews55 ratings

86 critic score Above average for gin

Gin Gin Scotland No age statement 41.3% ABV

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About this bottle

Tanqueray Malacca Gin, first released in 1998, is based on a formula created by Charles Waugh Tanqueray in 1839. He was known for extensive travels to find unique botanicals for his gins, developing this spiced spirit after a journey along the Malay Peninsula's southwest coast. Initially a cult favorite among industry professionals and enthusiasts, it was discontinued in 2001. Due to persistent requests from bartenders, Tanqueray brought it back in 2013 with a limited production of 100,000 bottles. The gin is described as having a slight sweetness with notes of lime, lavender, jasmine, peppercorn, rose, and clove. Update: As of May 2018, Diageo has made Malacca a permanent offering in Canada and Australia, with limited availability in the US.

How it tastes

Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.

Fruity 75
Floral 60
Sweet 55
Rich 50
Spicy 50
Oily 30
Herbal 30
Juniper 30

Reviews

Showing the most detailed of 9 parsed reviews.

Sonya Cheung 4.0

I finally decided to purchase this gin recently, and I'm very pleased I did. I'm not usually a fan of the original Tanqueray or Tanqueray No 10 because they tend to have too much pepper on the finish for my taste. Some of my classic cocktail references mention "Orange Gin" and suggest Tanqueray Malacca as a substitute. The aroma and appearance in the glass are wonderful; the juniper and citrus are immediately apparent. There's also a subtle scent of peppercorns, which initially concerned me, but they never dominated the gin. The body is remarkably smooth for a gin and could be enjoyed over ice. The finish is citrusy and clean, with just a hint of herbs and perhaps peppercorns. Regarding cocktails, this gin makes exceptionally impressive Martinis, though one must be cautious with the vermouth. I typically use a 3:1 ratio of gin to vermouth, add a few dashes of orange bitters, and stir until chilled. The first one was a bit too heavy on the vermouth, but I paid closer attention to the amount for the second, and it was superb. In a Gin and Tonic, the flavor can be easily diluted, so be mindful, but again, the citrus notes in this are fantastic. My only significant criticism of this gin is its lower alcohol content; I wish it were between 90 and 100 proof, as I believe it would better support the other flavors. In my region of SC, it costs about $30 for a liter, making the price reasonable, but given options like Fords and Roku, it's a difficult choice for repeat purchase. Enjoy.

Iker Woodall 4.5

I'll admit this gin isn't for everyone; it's sweeter than a London dry and less focused on juniper. The citrus is bright, there's ample juniper, along with coriander and peppercorn. From my perspective, not having extensive gin knowledge for a truly objective review, this is excellent and currently my favorite.

Ember Odell 5.0

I recently tried this delicious gin for the first time and was very disappointed to learn it's only a limited release. Based on the taste, I'd call it a classic.

Johnnie Houghton 3.3

Pleasant and smooth enough for sipping, and robust enough for mixing with tonics. Good value for the price paid of under 30 CAD.

Gwen Spangler 4.5

Best enjoyed when mixed with tonic.

Asher Hubert 4.0

Tanqueray from Hendricks.

3 more reviews were collected for this bottle. The longest ones are shown first.

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