First Impressions
Alnwick — the historic Northumberland town famous for its castle and gardens — lends its name to this gin from Northumberland Spirit Co. Produced in small batches of just 100 litres, it features eleven botanicals, some foraged locally: rosehip, rosemary, and lavender from the Northumberland countryside alongside cardamom, black pepper, coriander, fennel, and juniper. The eye-catching stoneware bottle with pewter label is a statement of intent.
Tasting
The nose is led by fragrant cardamom moving into floral lavender and rose. On the palate at 37.5%, smooth and juniper-forward with citrus, spice, and earthy herbs. Anise and savoury rosemary provide mid-palate depth, and lavender adds floral sweetness. The lower ABV makes this very approachable. The finish is peppery and subtly smoky — rosemary's savoury character lingering with a natural smokey undertone that some find intriguing and others find divisive.
The Bottom Line
Alnwick earns a 7 — a gin whose Northumberland provenance is genuine, with locally foraged botanicals creating a distinctive herbal-floral character. The 100-litre batches ensure care and consistency. The subtly smoky finish is the talking point: unusual and memorable. Best in a G&T with elderflower tonic and a sprig of rosemary. At £34, the stoneware bottle alone makes this a gift-worthy Northumberland gin.
