First Impressions
Haswell & Hastings produces two gins from Sussex: the 1066 at a standard 40%, and the Smugglers at a punchy 47%. The Smugglers is the bolder expression — a quintessentially dry gin inspired by the sea and the county's smuggling heritage, where the higher alcohol content brings out the full intensity of every botanical. Gooseberry — that most English of fruits — provides a tart character alongside traditional London Dry botanicals.
Tasting
The nose is strong and assertive: piney juniper, citrus, maritime freshness. On the palate at 47%, tart tangy gooseberry joins piney juniper and fragrant citrus. The higher ABV brings out every botanical's full intensity. Liquorice root provides sweetness that counterbalances the gooseberry's tartness. The finish is lingering liquorice with dry juniper and persistent gooseberry tang.
The Bottom Line
Hastings Smugglers earns a 7 — a London Dry that rewards drinkers who appreciate strength and intensity. The gooseberry is a clever choice: it provides a tart English-fruit character that you simply do not find in other gins. The 47% ensures nothing is lost in a G&T. Best with Indian tonic and orange with rosemary, or in a Gimlet where the gooseberry and lime create a tart masterpiece. At £38, Sussex gin with genuine backbone.
