No.3 London Dry Gin

No.3 London Dry Gin: A Deep Dive into a World-Renowned Spirit

No.3 London Dry Gin consistently ranks amongst the top gins globally, having won the International Spirits Challenge Gin Trophy an impressive four times and even claiming the title of Best Overall Spirit in 2019.  This meticulously crafted gin boasts a rich heritage and a flavour profile that has captivated bartenders and gin enthusiasts alike. Here at The General Wine, we're taking a deep dive into No.3 London Dry Gin, exploring its history, botanical composition, and offering detailed tasting notes alongside perfect serving suggestions.

A Legacy of Expertise: The Birth of No.3 London Dry Gin

The creation of No.3 London Dry Gin wasn't a happenstance. It was the result of a two-year collaboration between Berry Bros. & Rudd, a renowned wine and spirits merchant, alongside master distillers, top mixologists, and even Dr. David Clutton – the world's only individual holding a PhD in gin!  This dedication to excellence is evident in every bottle.

Distilled to Perfection: The Art of Crafting No.3

No.3 London Dry Gin honours tradition while embracing modern innovation.  The spirit is distilled in a 100-year-old brick-encased copper pot still, a testament to time-tested methods.  The botanical recipe itself is a closely guarded secret, but we do know it incorporates a classic balance of juniper, citrus, and spice.  Grapefruit and sweet orange peel add a touch of vibrancy, while coriander seeds and angelica root lend depth and complexity. Cardamom adds a subtle warmth, creating a truly well-rounded spirit.

Tasting No.3 London Dry Gin: A Journey for the Senses

On the Nose:  The initial aroma of No.3 is clean and juniper-forward, as one would expect from a classic London Dry Gin.  However, this juniper isn't overpowering. Instead, it's beautifully balanced by delicate citrus notes of grapefruit and orange peel.  Subtle hints of spice, particularly cardamom, peek through, adding intrigue and complexity.

On the Palate:   The first sip of No.3 is a revelation.  The juniper takes centre stage, delivering a crisp and refreshing character.  As the gin opens up on the palate, the citrus notes come alive, offering a burst of zesty sweetness that is perfectly balanced by the earthy warmth of the angelica root and the gentle spice of cardamom.  The overall impression is one of remarkable harmony, with each botanical playing its part to create a truly exceptional gin.

The Finish: No.3 boasts a long, lingering finish that is both warming and refreshing.  The juniper presence subtly fades, leaving behind a delightful citrus zestiness and a hint of peppery spice from the cardamom.

Serving Suggestions: Unlocking the Potential of No.3

No.3 London Dry Gin's versatility shines through in a variety of cocktails.  Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• The Perfect Gin & Tonic: For a simple yet sophisticated serve, pair 50ml of No.3 with a high-quality Indian tonic water. Garnish with a twist of grapefruit peel or a sprig of rosemary for an extra touch of elegance.
• The Classic Martini: No.3 excels in a dry martini. Combine 60ml of No.3 with 10ml of dry vermouth, stir well with ice, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist for a timeless cocktail experience.
• The Negroni Reimagined: For a twist on the classic Negroni, combine equal parts (30ml each) of No.3, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stir well with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. The vibrant citrus notes of No.3 will add a refreshing complexity to this Italian favourite.

Beyond the Classics:  No.3's well-balanced profile also makes it a fantastic base for a variety of creative cocktails.  Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to discover your own perfect serve.

In Conclusion: A Gin Worthy of Its Accolades

No.3 London Dry Gin is more than just an award-winning spirit; it's a testament to the power of meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to creating a truly exceptional gin.  With its classic juniper base beautifully complemented by citrus and spice notes, No.3 offers a delightful drinking experience, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a well-crafted cocktail.  At The General Wine, we highly recommend adding No.3 London Dry Gin to your home bar and exploring the world of flavour it has to offer.