Gin Mare has carved out a distinctive position in the contemporary gin landscape, and having spent considerable time with this bottle, I can see precisely why it commands such attention. Bottled at 42.7% ABV, it sits at a measured strength that allows its character to express itself without overwhelming the palate — a deliberate choice that speaks to thoughtful distillation rather than brute force.
Style & Character
Classified as a London Dry, Gin Mare nonetheless pushes against the boundaries of that category in ways that I find genuinely compelling. Where a textbook London Dry leans heavily on juniper with citrus and coriander playing supporting roles, Gin Mare has built its reputation on a more herbaceous, Mediterranean-inflected profile. It is a gin that asks you to reconsider what London Dry can be, without abandoning the structural discipline that the designation demands.
Assessment
At £44.25, this sits in the premium bracket, and I believe it largely justifies that positioning. There is an unmistakable sense of place here — a gin that evokes warm climates and aromatic gardens rather than the austere juniper-forward tradition of Northern Europe. It is not without its limitations; those seeking a classic, robust juniper punch may find it too restrained in that regard, and the botanical bill remains somewhat opaque, which is a minor frustration for those of us who appreciate full transparency from producers.
I award Gin Mare 7.7 out of 10. It is a confident, well-constructed spirit that delivers genuine character, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of the very finest in its class.
Best served: In a G&T with Fever-Tree Mediterranean tonic and a sprig of fresh rosemary — it rewards a garnish that complements rather than competes.
