A gin is so famous it was granted a license to produce in the United States in 1938. The gin’s flavor is introduced to the alcohol when it is in a vaporous form and made to pass through a “filter” of juniper berries, herbs, and spices. Gilbey’s Gin mixes quite well, and in cocktails, its harsher side is quelled and restrained. More juniper comes forward in cocktails like the gin and tonic, though its harshness, especially towards the finish is why I might be reluctant to recommend it in a martini. As far as mixed drinks go, for a gin that suits the gin and juice, gin and lemonade, or gin and grapefruit soda mindset, this works pretty well.
Tasting Notes Nose: The Nose is classic with plenty of junipers, with orange zest and angelica present as well. The lower notes have the bright, sappy, angelica still accompanied by the orange. The Nose is simple but familiar and inviting. I don’t think I would guess the price by the Nose. It’s fresh and generally quite positive.
Taste: The Taste is assertive and sharp, with lots of classic gin botanicals making an APPEARANCE: pine-forward juniper, bitter orange rind, coriander mid-Taste, surprisingly obvious for a second and then quickly vanishing from consciousness— the Finish is sharply citrus with a mineral-tinged, calciferous/slightly chalky astringency. Quite dry, with a roar of heat that is more expected at this price point.
Finish: The finish is moderately long, with that orange/citrus note enduring.
