Plymouth Gin is a brand that’s as historic as it is iconic. Nestled in the heart of the historic port city of Plymouth, England, the distillery has been producing its renowned gin since 1793.
Rooted in maritime tradition, the best Plymouth gins are characterised by their crisp, aromatic blend of fresh botanicals, offering a robust gin experience.
Although Plymouth’s original, Navy Strength, and Mr. King’s 1842 Recipe Gin lean more on the conventional side, the brand’s Sloe Gin and Fruit Cup are vibrant additions to the collection.
Best Plymouth Gins
The best Plymouth gins lead a harmonious dance of juniper, citrus, and subtle spices, crafting a timeless and evocative gin experience. Here is Plymouth’s liquid legacy: 5 gins that define a city.
1. Plymouth Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin Distillery
- ABV: 41.2% (82.4 Proof)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Colour: Clear
Review
This quintessential Plymouth Gin is a timeless classic using a 1793 recipe. Distilled with a blend of seven botanicals, it’s a gin that captures the spirit and essence of its birthplace.
On The Nose
Fresh juniper, coriander, and a hint of citrus.
On The Palate
Juniper leads the way, followed by coriander, cardamom, and a touch of lemon peel. The finish is smooth, with a delicate balance of sweetness and spice.
Best Served
Enjoy this classic gin in a classic gin & tonic. A slice of lemon or orange complements it beautifully. Also, use it in a Corpse Reviver No. 2 cocktail.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Plymouth Gin Navy Strength
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin Distillery
- ABV: 57% (114 Proof)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Colour: Clear
Review
Plymouth Navy Strength holds no punches at 57% ABV and is not for the faint-hearted. This bold, robust, no-nonsense navy strength gin carries the weight of maritime tradition.
On The Nose
Powerful juniper with a whisper of earthy notes.
On The Palate
I found the juniper to be dominant, but there’s a warmth from the high alcohol content. Notes of citrus and spice provide lift. It’s a gin that demands respect.
Best Served
Try this heavy-hitter in a Gin Gimlet cocktail that packs a punch. The sharpness of lime juice contrasts beautifully.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Mr King’s 1842 Recipe Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin Distillery
- ABV: 45% (90 Proof)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Colour: Clear
Review
A nod to the past, this limited edition gin is simplicity at its best, crafted using only two botanicals: juniper and orris. The juniper comes from a single mountain in Frontignano, Italy!
On The Nose
Crisp juniper with a floral undertone.
On The Palate
A juniper-forward gin that is clean and crisp, complemented by the subtle powdery floral notes of orris root (from the iris flower). It’s a gin that speaks of tradition, of a time when less was more.
Best Served
Try the simplicity of Mr. King’s 1842 Recipe Gin in a Tom Collins cocktail, where the effervescence of the soda water lifts it beautifully.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Plymouth Sloe Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin Distillery
- ABV: 26% (52 Proof)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Colour: Ruby Red
Review
As the seasons change and the weather gets chilly, I love the heartwarming variation of sloe gin. The infusion of sloe berries gives Plymouth Sloe Gin a unique, tart and sweet character.
On The Nose
Ripe sloe berries with an undercurrent of cherry and marzipan.
On The Palate
The tartness of the sloe berries is beautifully offset by the gin’s inherent sweetness. Hints of almond and cherry emerge, creating a rich tapestry of flavours. It’s like a warm embrace on a cold day.
Best Served
I recommend that Plymouth Sloe Gin is best served neat or with a splash of tonic water or lemonade. Try it in a fruity sloe gin version of the Classic Gin Fizz or the Bramble for more satisfying flavour!
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Plymouth Gin Fruit Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin Distillery
- ABV: 30% (60 Proof)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Colour: Rich Red/Brown
Review
I must say that Plymouth Gin Fruit Cup is the embodiment of summer. It’s a refreshing blend of fruit liqueurs, perfect for picnics and those lazy afternoons in the sun.
On The Nose
A medley of summer fruits with a touch of spice.
On The Palate
Oranges, stewed strawberries, and a hint of bitters lead to a solid vermouth-like base (think Martini Rosso), ensuring it’s not overly sweet. A cherry vanilla finish.
Best Served
Perfect for a chilled day in the garden, serve as a classic fruit cup with lemonade and a generous assortment of fresh fruits and cucumber.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Ingrid’s Top Pick
Plymouth Gin Navy Strength
Due to the extra punch it provides to any gin cocktail, my top pick is Plymouth Gin Navy Strength Gin. The juniper and zesty lemon just shine through.
However, my second favourite for the lighter gin experience, is Plymouth Gin Fruit Cup, perfect for refreshing summer cocktails!
Mixer/Cocktail Ideas
| No. | Name | Best For Mixer/Cocktail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plymouth Gin | Martini, Tonic |
| 2 | Plymouth Gin Navy Strength | Navy Strength Gimlet, Tonic |
| 3 | Mr King’s 1842 Recipe Gin | Classic Gin & Tonic, Martini |
| 4 | Plymouth Sloe Gin | Sloe Gin Fizz, Neat over ice |
| 5 | Plymouth Gin Fruit Cup | Lemonade, Fresh fruit slices |
Conclusion
Plymouth Gin has witnessed over two centuries of gin-making, making it one of England’s oldest working gin distilleries.
After navigating through the Plymouth Gin collection, it’s evident to me that this brand’s offerings blend tradition, innovation, and passion with quality ingredients.
Each of the best Plymouth gins has its distinct aroma and taste, telling a story of a distillery’s dedication to its craft and its city’s rich maritime history. You can even take a distiller tour.
Whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or just beginning your gin journey, there’s a Plymouth gin waiting to transport you to the historic port city’s cobbled streets.
Also read: 8 Best Gins For A Martini To Remember
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
