First Impressions
Exeter Gin celebrates the city's Roman heritage — Isca Dumnoniorum, describing 'flowing water' in reference to the River Exe, was the Roman name for Exeter during their occupation from circa AD55 to AD380. The botanicals include ingredients the Romans enjoyed: basil, cinnamon, marigold, cardamom, and tarragon. A clever production detail: orange and grapefruit peels are dried in the oven before steeping, concentrating their citrus oils for maximum intensity. Winner of Best Classic Gin at the Great British Food Awards.
Tasting
Eleven botanicals distilled in copper. The nose is bold — excellent aromatic depth, stacks of fragrance, and a big hit of juniper. The oven-dried citrus peels add concentrated brightness. On the palate at 44%, glossy and richly textured: juniper provides a deep bass note, refreshing citrus layers build, cardamom and cinnamon add zesty spice. Basil and tarragon contribute herbal Roman character, marigold provides floral warmth. The finish is long and luxurious.
The Bottom Line
Exeter Gin earns an 8 — a gin where the Roman heritage concept genuinely enhances the drinking experience. Basil, marigold, and tarragon are not standard gin botanicals, and their inclusion creates a herbal complexity that is both unusual and delicious. The oven-dried citrus technique is a smart detail that concentrates flavour. Best in a G&T with Mediterranean tonic and a basil leaf, or neat where the depth reveals itself. At £40, an award-winning Devon gin with 2,000 years of inspiration.
