First Impressions
Forged Gin comes with an IWSC Silver medal (2021) and a spice-forward identity that sets it apart from the citrus-led mainstream. The botanical bill centres on warming cassia bark, peppery grains of paradise, and floral cardamom — three spice botanicals that create a gin with genuine warmth and aromatic depth. The name suggests metalwork and fire, and the spice-driven character delivers on that promise.
The Distillery
Forged Spirits produces this gin using a botanical bill built around spice: cassia bark provides warm cinnamon character, grains of paradise contribute peppery heat, and cardamom adds floral, zesty aromatics. Citrus, lime, and blackcurrant provide the fruit dimension that balances the spice.
Tasting
The nose features herbal notes underpinned by citrus and lime flavours, with sweet and tart blackcurrants adding a berry dimension that is unexpected in a London Dry. The overall aromatic is inviting and complex.
On the palate, the gin is dry with a slightly spice-forward hit. Warming cassia bark blends seamlessly with peppery grains of paradise, and floral, zesty cardamom pods add aromatic complexity. The spice is the gin's defining characteristic — not aggressive, but confident and well-integrated.
The finish is spiced and warming, with lingering citrus brightness providing a clean conclusion. The grains of paradise contribute a peppery persistence.
How to Drink It
The spice-forward character makes this an excellent autumn and winter G&T gin — use Indian tonic and garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange slice. In a Negroni, the cassia warmth creates wonderful depth.
The Bottom Line
Forged Gin earns a 7 for delivering a spice-forward London Dry with genuine character. The cassia, grains of paradise, and cardamom create a warmth that distinguishes it from citrus-led competitors, and the IWSC Silver confirms the quality. At around £36, it is fairly priced for a gin with this level of spice complexity. A gin forged with fire and purpose.
