First Impressions
Hunters Gin carries itself with the understated confidence of a gin that knows its pedigree. Distilled at Langley Distillery in the West Midlands — home to some of the most experienced gin distillers in England, working copper pot and rectifying stills that in some cases are over a century old — it benefits from a production heritage that most craft upstarts can only dream of. The Cheshire branding connects it to the English countryside, but the liquid is pure Langley craftsmanship.
Bottled at 43.3% ABV — an unusual strength that suggests the distillers found a specific point at which the botanicals express themselves most completely — Hunters sits between the standard 40% commercial gins and the more assertive navy-strength territory. It is a precision choice that pays dividends.
The Distillery
Langley Distillery is one of England's most prolific gin distilleries, and their experience with traditional pot still methods spans generations. Hunters uses botanicals sourced with characteristic care: Balkan juniper, French angelica, Spanish lemon peel, and Florentine orris root among them. The full botanical recipe remains proprietary, though juniper, coriander seed, citrus peels, and angelica root are confirmed. The secret bill adds an element of intrigue to a gin that might otherwise risk being seen as merely competent.
Tasting
The nose is immediately appealing. Candied lime zest arrives first — bright and inviting — followed by piney juniper that is clean and well-defined. Angelica root contributes something unusual and distinctive: a musky, nutty, balsawood-like quality that adds depth without heaviness. Delicate floral aromas hover above the heavier botanicals, and faint cinnamon spice provides just enough warmth to keep the nose interesting. It is a nose that rewards close attention without demanding it.
On the palate, Hunters reveals a gin of genuine poise. The balance between delicacy and assertiveness is expertly managed — the mouthfeel is elegant, but the juniper punches through with proper authority. There is a note of honeyed elderflower sweetness that balances generous zesty citrus, creating a mid-palate that is both refreshing and complex. The 43.3% ABV gives the botanicals enough body to express themselves fully without any burn or harshness.
The finish is where the gin's quality becomes clear. Juniper lingers steadily, accompanied by dried floral notes reminiscent of potpourri — not the artificial kind, but the genuine article, dried garden flowers and herbs. Spice, orris, and dried herbs extend the finish to an admirable length. It is a contemplative rather than dramatic conclusion.
How to Drink It
Hunters makes a refined G&T. The delicate floral character responds well to Fever-Tree Elderflower Tonic — an unconventional pairing that amplifies the honeyed sweetness on the palate. Garnish with a twist of lime to connect with the candied citrus on the nose.
In a Martini, the 43.3% strength and juniper authority make it entirely creditable — not quite navy-strength assertive, but bold enough to stand up to dry vermouth. It also works well in a simple Gimlet, where the lime juice draws out the citrus and angelica notes.
The Bottom Line
Hunters Cheshire Gin earns a 7 for delivering a well-crafted, quietly elegant London Dry that benefits enormously from Langley Distillery's experience. The 43.3% ABV is a thoughtful choice, the botanical balance is admirable, and the potpourri finish gives it a character that lingers in the memory. It does not attempt to reinvent gin — it simply makes a very good version of what gin should be, and there is considerable merit in that. A bottle for purists who value craftsmanship over novelty.
