Ten Shilling London Dry Gin

Ten Shilling London Dry Gin: A Deep Dive into a Hampshire Hero 

At The General Wine Company, we're passionate about showcasing exceptional British spirits, and Ten Shilling London Dry Gin certainly fits the bill. Crafted in Hampshire by Gorilla Spirits Co., this small-batch gin boasts a classic profile with a contemporary twist.

This detailed tasting note explores the intricacies of Ten Shilling, offering a roadmap to its flavour profile and suggesting perfect pairings to elevate your gin experience.

A Legacy in Every Sip: History and Production

Ten Shilling draws inspiration from the rich heritage of English gin. The name itself harks back to a bygone era, referencing the pre-decimalisation shilling, a symbol of quality and tradition.

Gorilla Spirits Co. meticulously distils Ten Shilling in small batches, ensuring exceptional control over the process. The gin's base spirit is crafted from the finest quality grain, providing a clean and smooth foundation. The magic truly happens with the infusion of eight carefully selected botanicals.

While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, juniper, the soul of any London Dry Gin, undoubtedly plays a starring role. Ten Shilling goes beyond the expected, however, incorporating a symphony of citrus notes, aromatic spices, and subtle hints of floral character.

Unveiling the Aroma: A Journey for the Senses

Pour yourself a generous measure of Ten Shilling and take a moment to appreciate the gin's visual appeal. Crystal clear in the glass, it hints at the purity of the spirit within. Now, comes the exciting part: the exploration of the aroma.

As you raise the glass to your nose, a wave of juniper immediately greets you. This classic gin note is invigorating and sets the stage for the delightful complexity to come. Fresh citrus peels, predominantly orange and lemon, dance alongside the juniper, offering a burst of zesty vibrancy.

Look beyond the initial citrus burst, and you'll discover subtle hints of coriander seed, adding a touch of warmth and spice. Peppery undertones linger in the background, hinting at the presence of cassia bark or grains of paradise. A touch of floral elegance, perhaps lavender or rose, might also grace your senses, adding a touch of unexpected charm.

The Taste Unveiled: A Symphony of Flavours

The first sip of Ten Shilling is a revelation. The juniper asserts itself confidently, providing a robust foundation. However, it doesn't overpower the delicate interplay of other botanicals.

The zesty citrus notes, prominent on the nose, translate beautifully onto the palate. They offer a burst of freshness that cuts through the juniper's intensity, creating a well-balanced and exhilarating experience.

As you savour the gin, the warmth of the coriander seed emerges, adding a touch of complexity and a subtle peppery finish. The floral hints, if present on the nose, translate into a delicate background note, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the overall profile.

The finish of Ten Shilling is clean and crisp. The juniper lingers pleasantly, alongside a hint of citrus zest and the subtle warmth of the spices. It's a finish that invites another sip, making Ten Shilling a truly captivating gin.

The Perfect Serve: Unlocking Ten Shilling's Potential

Ten Shilling's versatility makes it a perfect base for a variety of gin cocktails. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• The Classic Gin & Tonic: This timeless combination allows Ten Shilling to shine. Use a high-quality Indian tonic water, plenty of ice, a generous splash of gin, and a garnish of a lemon wedge or a sprig of rosemary for a refreshing twist.
• The Sophisticated Martini: Ten Shilling's robust character makes it ideal for a dry martini. Combine gin with a touch of dry vermouth, stir well over ice, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist for a touch of elegance.
• The Zesty Citrus Smash: Combine Ten Shilling gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a muddled mint sprig in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a mint sprig and a slice of lemon for a vibrant and refreshing drink.
• The Floral French 75: Combine Ten Shilling gin, fresh lemon juice, champagne, and a touch of sugar syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a champagne flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist for a touch of floral elegance.

In Conclusion: A Gin Worth Discovering

Ten Shilling London Dry Gin is a testament to the exceptional quality of British spirits. Its classic juniper core is beautifully balanced with vibrant citrus notes, subtle spices, and a touch of floral charm.