Top 10 Gin Brands: A Deep Dive into the World's Finest Gins

Gin, a spirit celebrated for its versatility and rich botanicals, offers a journey through history with every sip. From London Dry to innovative, contemporary blends, gin enthusiasts revel in the complexity and diversity of this beloved spirit.

We’re often asked what our favourite gin is, what’s the best, or which brand(s) would we recommend – that’s a hard question to answer!

So to help, we’ve created this guide which takes you through the top 10 gin brands (in our opinion), each with an intruiging history and an array of distinct offerings.

The Timeless Appeal of Gin

At its core, gin is a symphony of botanicals, with juniper taking centre stage. This intricate blend gives gin its unique character, making it a staple in both classic and modern cocktails. Whether crafting a simple gin and tonic or a complex cocktail, gin's multifaceted nature makes it a spirit of endless discovery.

Whether you’re looking for a good affordable gin to buy online, or perhaps a special gin to buy – we’re certain we have a gin here for you to buy online with us at Gin Fling.

Our Top 10 Gin Brand Selection

1. Tanqueray

Brand History

Founded in the 1830s by Charles Tanqueray in the Bloomsbury district of London, Tanqueray has long been synonymous with the London Dry gin style.

Despite the destruction of the original distillery during World War II, Tanqueray has maintained its reputation for crafting a gin of unparalleled quality. Its iconic green bottle, reminiscent of a cocktail shaker, is recognized worldwide.

The brand's dedication to a simple yet effective recipe has ensured its position as a benchmark in the gin industry.

Gin Selection

Tanqueray London Dry, Tanqueray No. Ten, Tanqueray Rangpur, Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla - to shop the full range visit the Tanqueray Brand Page

Perfect For

The classic Gin & Tonic experience.

 

2. Bombay Sapphire

Brand History

Launched in 1987, Bombay Sapphire revolutionized the gin market with its vapour-infusion process and striking blue bottle.

The brand's name and its choice of 10 exotic botanicals were inspired by the British Empire's trade routes. The innovative distillation process, where botanicals are suspended above the spirit to be vapour-infused, results in a more delicate, aromatic flavour profile.

Bombay Sapphire's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favourite among bartenders and gin enthusiasts alike.

Gin Selection

Bombay Original Dry, Bombay Sapphire, Bombay Sapphire East, Bombay Bramble - to shop the full range visit the Bombay Sapphire Brand Page

Perfect For

A delicate and aromatic Tom Collins.

 

3. Hendrick's Gin

Brand History

Since its introduction in 1999 by William Grant & Sons, Hendrick's Gin has been at the forefront of the gin renaissance.

Distilled in small batches in Ayrshire, Scotland, Hendrick's peculiar inclusion of cucumber and Bulgarian rose petals, along with traditional botanicals, offers a unique taste experience. The brand's Victorian apothecary-style bottle and whimsical marketing campaigns have endeared it to a global audience.

Hendrick's continues to innovate, pushing the boundaries of gin distillation and flavour.

Gin Selection

Hendrick's Original, Hendrick's Lunar, Hendrick's Midsummer Solstice, Hendrick's Orbium - to shop the full range visit the Hendricks Brand Page

Perfect For

A refreshing twist on the Gin Martini.

 

4. Beefeater London Dry Gin

Brand History

Beefeater, one of the few gins still distilled in London, carries a legacy dating back to 1863. Founded by James Burrough, the distillery has been a stalwart defender of the traditional London Dry style.

The brand's name pays homage to the Yeomen Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who guard the Tower of London. Despite its global reach, Beefeater has remained true to its London roots, with a commitment to quality that has stood the test of time.

Gin Selection

Beefeater Dry, Beefeater 24, Beefeater Pink, Beefeater Blood Orange - to shop the full range visit the Beefeater Brand Page

Perfect For

A quintessentially British Negroni.

 

5. Sipsmith

Brand History

In 2009, Sipsmith became London's first copper pot distillery in nearly two centuries, marking the beginning of a new era for artisanal gin production in the city.

Founded by Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall, Sipsmith was born out of a desire to return to the roots of gin making, with a focus on handcrafted, small-batch production. The distillery played a pivotal role in the modern craft gin movement, advocating for changes in British law to allow for micro-distillation.

Sipsmith's commitment to traditional techniques and quality has earned it a place among the top gin brands worldwide.

Gin Selection

Sipsmith London Dry Gin, Sipsmith V.J.O.P, Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle, Sipsmith Sloe Gin - to shop the full range visit the Sipsmith Brand Page

Perfect For

An elegant Vesper Martini.

 

6. Monkey 47

Brand History

Monkey 47's story begins in the Black Forest of Germany, where British RAF officer Montgomery "Monty" Collins established a distillery in the 1950s.

Inspired by the region's rich botanicals and his love for gin, Collins crafted a gin recipe featuring 47 botanicals. The gin's name, Monkey 47, pays tribute to Collins' adopted monkey, Max, and the number of botanicals used.

This gin is celebrated for its complexity and depth, offering a unique tasting experience that bridges traditional and contemporary gin styles.

Gin Selection

Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin, Monkey 47 Sloe Gin - to shop the full range visit the Monkey 47 Brand Page

Perfect For

A Gin Fizz bursting with flavour.

 

7. The Botanist

Brand History

Distilled on the Isle of Islay, known for its whisky production, The Botanist stands out as the island's first and only dry gin.

Introduced by the Bruichladdich Distillery, The Botanist features 22 hand-foraged local botanicals, meticulously selected to represent the essence of Islay. The distillation process, carried out in a rare Lomond still named Ugly Betty, results in a gin of exceptional flavour and purity.

The Botanist's commitment to showcasing Islay's natural bounty has garnered acclaim from gin lovers worldwide.

Gin Selection

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin - to shop the full range visit the The Botanist Brand Page

Perfect For

A botanical-rich Dry Martini.

 

8. Brockmans Gin

Brand History

Established with the aim of creating a gin "like no other," Brockmans is a testament to innovation in the gin industry.

Founded by a group of friends with a passion for gin, Brockmans combines traditional botanicals with unique ingredients like blueberries and blackberries. This distinctive blend, alongside the brand's modern approach to marketing and design, has helped Brockmans carve out a niche for itself as a gin that appeals to both traditionalists and those seeking something new.

Gin Selection

Brockmans Intensely Smooth Gin, Brockmans Orange Kiss - to shop the full range visit the Brockmans Brand Page

Perfect For

A fruit-forward Bramble or an inventive Gin & Tonic.

 

9. Plymouth Gin

Brand History

With a heritage dating back to 1793, Plymouth Gin is distilled at the historic Black Friars Distillery, the oldest working distillery in England.

Plymouth Gin's unique character comes from a balanced blend of seven botanicals, and its smooth profile makes it a favourite among martini enthusiasts.

The brand's storied past, including its association with the British Royal Navy and its protected geographical indication status, speaks to its significance in the gin world.

Gin Selection

Plymouth Original Strength, Plymouth Navy Strength, Plymouth Sloe Gin - to shop the full range visit the Plymouth Brand Page

Perfect For

A balanced Gimlet or Martini.

 

10. Gordon's Gin

Historical Notes

Alexander Gordon founded Gordon's Gin in 1769 in Southwark, London, setting the foundation for one of the world's best-selling gin brands.

With its strict selection of botanicals and emphasis on juniper berries, Gordon's recipe has remained a closely guarded secret for over 250 years. The brand's success is built on consistent quality and a commitment to the traditional London Dry style, making it a staple in bars and homes around the globe. Gordon's historic distillery was moved to Clerkenwell in 1786 and has since become synonymous with the evolution of gin in Britain, navigating through periods of immense popularity and regulatory change.

It played a crucial role during the "Gin Craze" of the 18th century and has maintained its reputation through the gin renaissance of the 21st century. Notably, Gordon's was awarded its first Royal Warrant by King George V in 1925, a testament to its esteemed quality and heritage. Today, Gordon's continues to be celebrated for its classic gin offerings and innovative flavoured variants that appeal to a broad audience.

Gin Selection

Gordon's London Dry Gin, Gordon's Premium Pink Distilled Gin, Gordon's Tropical Passionfruit - to shop the full range visit the Gordon's Brand Page.

Perfect For

The definitive G & T (Gordon's & Tonic), offering a timeless taste that has been enjoyed for generations.

 

 Enhancing Your Gin Experience

Embarking on your gin exploration involves more than just sampling; it's about understanding the rich histories and unique botanical blends that each brand brings to the table. Here are a few tips to elevate your gin experience:

Explore Pairings

Different tonics and mixers can bring out unique aspects of a gin's flavour profile. After all, the tonic plays a large part of the whole experience. A cheap tonic will ruin the flavours in the gin. Experiment with artisanal tonics and consider the botanicals in your gin to find your ideal pairing. In this way you will truly elevate your experience, crafting a gin & tonic to be proud of!

Experiment with Garnishes

The right garnish can transform a gin drink. While citrus is classic, try experimenting with herbs, spices, or even edible flowers to complement the gin's botanicals.

Craft Classic and Contemporary Cocktails

Each gin's unique characteristics can inspire a range of cocktails, from the timeless Martini to modern creations. Use the distinct profiles of these top gin brands to inspire your mixology. For some inspiration, read our blog Top 10 Gin Cocktails.

 Conclusion: A Journey Through Gin's Legacy

The top 10 gin brands showcased in this guide offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of gin's history and its contemporary evolution. From Tanqueray's classic London Dry to Gordon's storied past and widespread appeal, each brand represents a unique chapter in the gin narrative.

Whether you're a seasoned gin aficionado or new to the world of gin, these brands provide a foundation for exploration and enjoyment. Dive into the histories, savour the botanicals, and celebrate the craft of gin making.

Cheers to discovering your next favourite gin!