London No.1 Original Blue Gin

Unveiling the Enigmatic London No.1 Original Blue Gin: A Detailed Tasting Exploration

Standing out from the crowd with its captivating turquoise hue, London No.1 Original Blue Gin is more than just a pretty face. This quadruple-distilled masterpiece boasts a complex flavour profile, earning its place as a favourite amongst gin connoisseurs. But what exactly lies beneath the surface of this enigmatic spirit? Let's embark on a detailed tasting journey to uncover the secrets of London No.1.

On the Eye:

The first impression is undeniably captivating. The gin lives up to its name, presenting a stunning sapphire blue colour. This vibrant shade is naturally derived from gardenia flower infusions, a hint of the botanical intrigue that awaits.

The Nose:

As you approach the glass, a wave of juniper – the defining characteristic of gin – immediately greets you. However, London No.1 goes beyond the expected. Hints of citrus, particularly lemon and orange peel, weave their way in, offering a burst of freshness. Beneath this layer lies a touch of earthy warmth, likely from angelica root and coriander seeds. A subtle floral note, reminiscent of bergamot, adds a touch of elegance, hinting at the intricate tapestry of flavours to come.

The Palate:

The first sip is an explosion of flavour. The juniper asserts itself confidently, providing a robust foundation. The citrus notes from the nose translate beautifully, offering a burst of zesty vibrancy. As the gin lingers on the tongue, the warmth of angelica and coriander unfolds, balanced by the subtle sweetness of liquorice root. The floral character, hinted at on the nose, blossoms on the palate. Delicate bergamot mingles with the juniper, creating a wonderfully perfumed quality. This interplay of botanicals creates a harmonious and well-rounded flavour profile, where each element complements the others.

The Finish:

The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. The juniper presence fades slowly, giving way to the warmth of the angelica and coriander. The citrus and floral notes linger in the background, offering a refreshing and sophisticated aftertaste.

Serving Suggestions:

London No.1's complex flavour profile makes it a versatile gin, perfect for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or as the star ingredient in classic cocktails.

• Neat: To fully appreciate the gin's intricate tapestry of flavours, savour it neat in a chilled coupe glass. The cooler temperature will help to accentuate the citrus and floral notes, while allowing the full body of the gin to shine through.
• On the Rocks: For a slightly more relaxed experience, serve London No.1 on the rocks in an old-fashioned glass. A large, single ice cube will chill the gin without diluting it too quickly, allowing you to enjoy the full flavour profile as the ice melts.
• Gin & Tonic: This timeless combination is elevated with London No.1. Use a high-quality Indian tonic water and a generous squeeze of fresh lime to complement the gin's citrus notes. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for an added herbal touch.
• Martini: For a classic martini with a twist, use London No.1. The gin's robust juniper character holds its own against dry vermouth, creating a perfectly balanced and sophisticated cocktail. Garnish with a lemon twist to enhance the citrus notes.
• Negroni: This Italian cocktail takes on a new dimension with London No.1. The gin's floral and citrus notes create a beautiful harmony with the bitter sweetness of Campari and the rich depth of sweet vermouth. Garnish with an orange peel for a touch of citrus brightness.

In Conclusion:

London No.1 Original Blue Gin is more than just a visually striking spirit. Its complex flavour profile, with its interplay of juniper, citrus, spice, floral notes, and a touch of sweetness, makes it a truly captivating gin. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a classic cocktail, London No.1 promises a unique and memorable drinking experience.

Looking to Explore London No.1 for Yourself?

Head over to our "Spirits" section on The General Wine Co. website to purchase your bottle of London No.1 Original Blue Gin and embark on your own tasting adventure.  We also offer a wide range of high-quality tonics and mixers to help you create the perfect gin experience.