First Impressions
The 1881 Distillery opened in October 2019 within the Peebles Hydro Hotel in the Scottish Borders — a grand Victorian hotel with its own gin school. Tiffin was created specifically to complement an Indian concept menu at the hotel: the botanicals — kaffir lime leaf, cumin, cardamom, and ginger — are chosen to echo the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. At 45%, the gin retains essential oils that lower-strength gins lose.
Tasting
Key botanicals: kaffir lime leaf, cumin, cardamom, ginger, alongside juniper and coriander. The nose has cumin, juniper, and kaffir lime dancing from the surface. On the palate at 45%, highly aromatic and reminiscent of Indian cooking spices — warming, hearty, spicy, and playful. Cumin and ginger play with juniper and cardamom. The finish is long and coating, essential oils retained, spice notes persisting.
The Bottom Line
1881 Tiffin earns a 7 — a gin designed for food pairing that succeeds brilliantly at its purpose. The cumin and kaffir lime create an aromatic profile that genuinely complements Indian cuisine rather than competing with it. The 45% strength is well-judged, retaining essential oils for maximum flavour. Best alongside a curry or biryani, or in a G&T with Indian tonic and a kaffir lime leaf. At £38, a Scottish gin with Indian soul.
