Since 1863, Beefeater Gin has been a hallmark of craft and tradition, earning its title as the world's most awarded gin. Distilled in the heart of London, this quintessential London Dry Gin embodies a bold juniper-forward profile complemented by vibrant citrus notes, derived from its carefully selected nine botanicals, including Seville orange and lemon peels. Steeped for 24 hours before an expert distillation process, Beefeater delivers unmatched depth and balance, perfect for classic cocktails like gin & tonic or martinis. With sustainability in mind, it now features eco-friendly packaging, solidifying its place as a timeless yet forward-thinking spirit.
Process & Profile
Crafted with precision, Beefeater Gin boasts over 200 years of distilling heritage. Using founder James Burrough's original 19th-century recipe, nine carefully selected botanicals—including bold juniper, zesty lemon peel, and bittersweet Seville orange peel—are steeped in grain spirit for 24 hours before distillation. This meticulous process ensures a complex yet perfectly balanced flavor profile, rooted in tradition yet designed for modern palates.
The gin is produced at the iconic Beefeater distillery in Kennington, London—the only historic dry gin distillery still active in the city. Sustainability plays a role as well, with packaging innovations like recycled glass bottles and aluminum caps that reflect Beefeater's commitment to eco-consciousness.
Tasting Notes
Beefeater Gin greets the nose with a classic bouquet of pine-forward juniper, bright citrus zest, and a subtle hint of licorice. On the palate, it delivers a clean and assertive juniper base, balanced by earthy coriander, warming angelica, and bursts of citrus from lemon and bitter orange. A touch of almond and orris root rounds out the flavor, creating a nuanced finish with notes of spice and floral sweetness. This is a gin of depth and clarity—the epitome of a London Dry profile.
What Makes It Special
-
Award-Winning Legacy: Beefeater is celebrated as the "World's Most Awarded Gin," a testament to its enduring excellence and craftsmanship.
-
Traditional Distillation: By steeping its botanicals for 24 hours and employing time-honored pot still distillation techniques, Beefeater delivers unparalleled intensity of flavor.
-
Versatility: Its balanced profile makes it a favorite for a wide range of cocktails, from the classic Martini to modern gin-forward creations.
-
Sustainability: Beefeater has embraced eco-friendly practices, ensuring its production aligns with environmentally responsible standards.
-
Historical Roots: Named after the Yeomen Warders of the Tower of London, the brand carries a rich British heritage while staying relevant through innovative flavored gin variants, such as Pink Strawberry and Blackberry.
How to Enjoy
Beefeater Gin's adaptability shines across a variety of serving styles:
-
Classic Gin & Tonic: Pour over ice, add premium tonic water, and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime for a crisp and refreshing drink.
-
Signature Cocktails: Elevate your repertoire with a Negroni, Tom Collins, or Gimlet, all showcasing Beefeater's botanical-rich complexity.
-
Neat or On the Rocks: For true gin aficionados, savor Beefeater neat or over a single cube of ice to appreciate its full spectrum of flavors.
-
Flavored Variants: Experiment with Beefeater's fruit-infused gins—Pink Strawberry or Blackberry—for a sweeter, contemporary twist. These pair beautifully with lemonade or can be enjoyed in creative cocktails with fresh fruit garnishes.
With its storied history, impeccable craftsmanship, and versatile character, Beefeater Gin remains a timeless classic and an absolute must-have for any spirits lover. From casual mixers to sophisticated cocktails, Beefeater delivers bold, balanced flavors that stand the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beefeater London Dry Gin known for?
Beefeater London Dry Gin is celebrated for its bold juniper flavor, balanced with vibrant citrus notes. It is crafted using a blend of nine botanicals, including juniper, angelica root, coriander, and Seville orange peel, following a recipe that has remained unchanged since the 19th century. It is the most awarded gin in the world and the only historic dry gin still distilled in London.
What are the key botanicals in Beefeater London Dry Gin?
The gin features nine carefully selected botanicals: juniper, angelica root, angelica seed, coriander seed, liquorice, almond, orris root, Seville orange peel, and lemon peel. These ingredients are steeped for 24 hours prior to distillation to extract maximum flavor and aroma.
How is Beefeater Gin distilled?
Beefeater Gin uses a unique distillation process that involves steeping the botanicals in neutral grain spirit for 24 hours before an 8-hour distillation. This method infuses the spirit with the rich flavors and aromas of the botanicals.
What is the origin of Beefeater Gin?
Beefeater Gin was first created in 1863 by James Burrough in London. The name "Beefeater" refers to the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London, symbolizing its English heritage.
Are there flavored variations of Beefeater Gin?
Yes, Beefeater offers flavored gins such as Beefeater Pink (with natural strawberry flavor) and Beefeater Blood Orange (made with Seville orange peels). These variations are perfect for cocktails or enjoyed neat.
What is Beefeater 24?
Beefeater 24 is a premium variant of Beefeater Gin, containing 12 botanicals, including Japanese sencha, Chinese green tea, and grapefruit peel. This blend results in a complex, smooth flavor profile. The number "24" refers to the 24-hour steeping process for the botanicals.
Is Beefeater Gin environmentally sustainable?
Yes, Beefeater has taken steps towards sustainability. Since 2021, the bottle is made of 100% recycled glass, and the plastic cap has been replaced with an aluminum one. The labels are now made from recyclable paper, saving hundreds of tons of plastic annually.
What is the alcohol content of Beefeater Gin?
Beefeater London Dry Gin is bottled at 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) in most markets. Other variants like Beefeater 24 are bottled at 45% ABV, while some flavored options may have lower alcohol content.
How should Beefeater Gin be enjoyed?
Beefeater Gin is versatile and can be enjoyed straight, in classic cocktails like a Gin and Tonic or a Negroni, or in more creative recipes. Its bold juniper and citrus profile also pairs excellently with vermouth and other mixers.
Can I visit the Beefeater distillery?
Yes, the Beefeater Distillery in London is open to the public. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history, production process, and enjoy a complimentary Gin and Tonic.
