First Impressions
Two Dutch enthusiasts discovered an ancient gin recipe in the British Library — dating to 1689, the year William of Orange took the English throne and brought Dutch genever culture to Britain. After an 18-month journey of research and recreation, they partnered with Herman Jansen, the historic Dutch distilling company, to bring the recipe back to life. Red quince, apple, nutmeg, aniseed, and clove form the ancient base; the Queen Mary Edition adds strawberry and raspberry.
Tasting
Ancient botanicals: red quince, apple, lemon and orange peel, nutmeg, aniseed, clove, plus strawberry and raspberry. The nose is strawberry and lemon with juniper. On the palate at 38.5%, great balance of juniper, strawberry, and malty base notes. Floral coriander complements the berries. Crisp, slightly tart. The finish is floral fruit with vanilla and black pepper.
The Bottom Line
Gin 1689 earns a 7 — a gin with genuine historical credentials backed by British Library research. The ancient recipe's quince, nutmeg, and clove create a flavour profile you won't find in modern gins, and the Queen Mary Edition's berries make it accessible. Best in a G&T where the fruit comes alive. At £34, a piece of 17th-century gin history brought back to life by Dutch passion.
