First Impressions
Conker Spirit's RNLI Navy Strength is a partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, raising over £55,000 for the charity. Distilled on the Dorset coast at 57%, it uses Conker's signature botanicals — elderberries for jammy sweetness and marsh samphire for coastal salinity — amplified by naval proof.
Tasting
The nose opens with spirituous beginnings, bold juniper pine and complex warm spice, with well-managed alcohol integration and fine citrus. On the palate, upfront juniper pine and warm savoury spice are paired with herbaceous orange sweetness and dark elderberry fruit. Marsh samphire brings salinity and a green, almost seaweed-like character. The mouthfeel is luxuriously oily. The finish is long, lingering and warming.
The Bottom Line
Conker RNLI Navy Strength earns an 8 for being both an excellent navy strength gin and a force for good. The elderberry and samphire combination at 57% creates a coastal navy gin distinct from London-distilled competitors. One of the best cocktail gins for bold Negronis and Gin Mules, and every bottle supports the RNLI.
