Gin, although of Dutch origin, is a beverage that owes much of its current success to London, the capital of England, which for decades had a near monopoly on its production, to the point that people named a special gin, “Dry London Gin”.
The love story between the capital of the British Empire and the soul of gin-tonics dates back to 1688, during the so-called “Glorious Revolution”, when gin became fashionable for three main reasons:
It’s easy to produce
It’s easy to mix with water
It’s cheaper than other spirits
In the 18th century, there were about 15,000 establishments serving gin in London, and gin production was protected by the British government, which offered lower taxes than other spirits. But what remains today of the British gin tradition in London?
If you’re traveling to London looking for a distillery tour in the style of Scottish whiskey distilleries, you’d better stay home. The major gin distilleries in London, such as Tanqueray, have long since left the capital. London has been absorbed by whiskey producers, a market where demand for spirits is greater.
However, one gin maker has stayed, Beefeater Gin, located in the Kennington district, a quiet area of central London where great spirits like Bob Marley, Charles Chaplin and Vincent Van Gogh have once been. live.
Have you decided to learn more about Gin right here in London? Here are 3 places to enjoy the best gin-tonic in London (and possibly the world).
Happy Hour at Hawksmoor Spitalfields Bar
Hawksmoor Spitalfields Bar: One of the hot spots in London. Designed as a place for casual dining (Club Sandwich and burger dominate the menu), this year was selected as one of the 100 Best Small Companies to Work for and the perfect place to network or only meet and be seen. Its gin-tonic with Tanqueray Rangpur is ideal for happy hour fans.
Hawksmoor Spitalsfields Bar also offers an extensive selection of wines from around the world, as well as artisanal beers and bespoke cocktails made with seasonal ingredients. Their private dining room is also available for private events and parties, for a unique and stylish dining experience. The award-winning bar and restaurant have also been recently recognised as one of the most child-friendly places in London, offering an extensive menu for little ones and an activity corner for when parents need a break.
Gin Tasting in London – A gin-tonic with Gin Mare
Are you going to London to shop? You will definitely want to check out Harrods. A 5-minute walk from here, on the corner of Knightsbridge, you’ll find the Boulud Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel. It is known for serving delicious burgers, but also serves gin-tonics with Gin Mare very different from any other drink in London. And Gin Mare is made in Spain!
Gin Tasting in London – A long night in Soho
Finally, if you want a crazy night out, Soho is still a benchmark of London nightlife, and Madame Jo Jo is one you shouldn’t miss. While admission doesn’t come cheap, if you love the long nights you’ll get to enjoy the best beats and most people in the City. And, at the bar, the bartenders are known for making perfect cocktails. Put them to the test!
See you in London!
