First Impressions
Manchester Gin Signature has become one of the UK's most awarded gins — and its point of distinction is unmistakably Northern English: dandelion and burdock. The classic soft drink of the industrial North provides the inspiration for a gin that combines these two roots with almond, citrus, and traditional London Dry botanicals. It is a gin that wears its Manchester provenance with pride and delivers a flavour profile that could not have come from any other city.
The Distillery
Manchester Gin produces the Signature expression using juniper, dandelion roots, burdock roots, almond, lemon, orange, cassia, liquorice, and other classic botanicals. The dandelion and burdock provide the gin's most distinctive quality — an earthy, slightly bitter, unmistakably Northern character. The almond adds a nutty creaminess.
Tasting
The nose is clean with a classic juniper undertone and bright citrus top notes — lemon and a hint of vanilla. It is inviting and straightforward.
On the palate, dry citrus freshness arrives first, followed by sweet liquorice and cassia. The palate is delectably rich, earthy, and smooth — the dandelion and burdock roots contributing a depth that is uniquely Manchester. Touches of citrus lift and brighten, and the almond provides a creamy, nutty dimension.
The finish is smooth and creamy with a soft eucalyptus tone. It is long, with a warm, seductive pepperiness that encourages sip after sip.
How to Drink It
In a G&T with Fever-Tree Indian Tonic and an orange twist — the citrus draws out the gin's brightness while the dandelion-burdock earthiness provides depth. The creamy almond character also makes it an interesting Espresso Martini base.
The Bottom Line
Manchester Gin Signature earns a 7.5 as one of the UK's most awarded gins with a genuinely distinctive Northern English character. The dandelion and burdock roots are not a gimmick — they provide an earthy, rich dimension that no other botanical combination can replicate. The almond creaminess adds texture, and the classic London Dry foundation ensures quality. At around £32, the multiple awards and the Manchester personality justify the price. The North's finest gin, and proud of it.
