Hayman's Old Tom Gin

Hayman's Old Tom Gin: A Deep Dive into a Classic Spirit

Hayman's Old Tom Gin offers a captivating exploration of gin history. This unique spirit, bottled at 41.4% ABV, takes inspiration from the richer, sweeter gins favoured in Victorian England. Let's delve into the world of Hayman's Old Tom Gin, dissecting its flavour profile and suggesting perfect serves to elevate your drinking experience.

A Nuanced Bouquet

Hayman's Old Tom Gin boasts a complex and inviting aroma. Juniper, the quintessential gin botanical, forms the foundation, its piney character immediately recognisable. However, it doesn't dominate. Instead, a delightful citrus symphony emerges, with notes of zesty lemon peel, juicy orange, and a touch of lime. These citrus elements create a refreshing and uplifting quality.

As the aroma unfolds, subtle hints of coriander and angelica peek through, adding a touch of spice and earthiness. These notes provide depth and intrigue, preventing the gin from being one-dimensional. The sweetness, a hallmark of Old Tom style gins, is present but understated. It doesn't overwhelm the botanical tapestry but rather adds a hint of smooth warmth.

A Rich and Bold Flavour Profile

The first sip of Hayman's Old Tom Gin is a revelation. The juniper asserts itself more prominently on the palate than on the nose, delivering a warming tingle. Yet, it remains balanced by the vibrant citrus orchestra. Zesty lemon dances across the tongue, followed by the sweetness of orange and a touch of lime's sharpness. The coriander and angelica notes translate beautifully, adding a subtle peppery spice and a hint of earthiness that grounds the brighter citrus flavours.

The sweetness in Hayman's Old Tom Gin is a delightful surprise. It's not a sugary rush, but rather a gentle caress that complements the botanical symphony. This subtle sweetness is what sets Old Tom Gin apart from its drier London Dry cousins. It creates a more rounded and harmonious flavour profile, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of smoothness in their gin.

The finish of Hayman's Old Tom Gin is long and satisfying. The juniper lingers pleasantly, accompanied by a whisper of citrus and the gentle warmth of the spice notes. It's a clean finish that invites another sip to explore the intricacies of this captivating spirit further.

Unlocking Hayman's Old Tom Gin's Potential

Hayman's Old Tom Gin's versatility shines through in various serving suggestions. Here are a few ways to experience its brilliance:

• The Classic Gin & Tonic:  For a taste of history, prepare a Gin & Tonic that pays homage to the Victorian era. Use a high-quality Indian tonic water, a generous wedge of lemon, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. The rosemary adds a touch of herbal complexity that complements the gin beautifully.
• The Martinez: Hayman's Old Tom Gin is a bartender's secret weapon for crafting classic cocktails. In a Martinez, it replaces the usual London Dry Gin, resulting in a richer and more complex drink. The sweetness of the Old Tom Gin balances the earthiness of sweet vermouth, creating a truly delightful cocktail.
• The Tom Collins:  This refreshing cocktail is practically synonymous with Old Tom Gin.  Combine Hayman's Old Tom Gin with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon slice for a taste of pure refreshment.
• Neat or on the Rocks:  For the purists who appreciate the gin in its unadulterated form, Hayman's Old Tom Gin is equally enjoyable neat or on the rocks. The ice helps to open up the aroma and allows you to savour the full spectrum of flavours.

A Timeless Treasure

Hayman's Old Tom Gin is more than just a spirit; it's a portal to a bygone era. With its rich history, complex flavour profile, and versatility in cocktails, it offers a unique and rewarding drinking experience. So, raise a glass to Hayman's Old Tom Gin, and embark on a journey through the fascinating world of gin history.