Plymouth Gin occupies a unique position in the gin world. It is the only gin with a geographical indication — it must, by law, be distilled in Plymouth, Devon — and its heritage stretches back to 1793, when the Black Friars Distillery began production in a building that had already been standing for four centuries. The Navy Strength expression takes that heritage and amplifies it, quite literally, to 57% ABV.
The "navy strength" designation has genuine historical roots. The Royal Navy required that spirits stored aboard ship be bottled at a minimum of 100 degrees proof (57.15% ABV) — strong enough that if the spirit leaked onto gunpowder, the powder would still ignite. It's a practical, rather than romantic, origin story, but it speaks to an era when gin was as much a tool of naval life as sails and compasses.
On the Nose
Despite its formidable strength, Plymouth Navy Strength doesn't assault you with alcohol. The nose is remarkably composed — rich, deep juniper, earthy angelica, and a pronounced citrus character that leans towards sweet orange rather than sharp lemon. There's a warmth underneath, a kind of baked-spice quality from the coriander and cardamom, that hints at the depth to come.
On the Palate
This is where Plymouth Navy Strength reveals its true quality. The entry is full-bodied and silky — that high ABV translated into texture rather than heat. Juniper is the anchor, rich and resinous, but the citrus and root botanicals bring a breadth of flavour that prevents any single note from dominating.
The mid-palate is beautifully complex: earthy angelica root, sweet orris, warm cardamom, and a subtle peppery bite from the higher proof. There's none of the harshness you sometimes encounter with navy strength gins — everything is integrated and harmonious, a testament to the quality of the distillation at Black Friars.
The mouthfeel deserves special mention. Plymouth has always been a slightly softer, rounder gin than the classic London Dry style, and even at 57%, that character persists. It's weighty without being heavy, intense without being aggressive.
The Finish
Long and warming, with juniper and sweet spice persisting beautifully. The angelica root provides a dry, grounding quality that prevents the finish from becoming cloying, while the citrus oils add a final bright note that keeps everything fresh.
How to Serve It
In a Gimlet, Plymouth Navy Strength is transcendent — the higher proof stands up to Rose's lime cordial without being overwhelmed, creating a drink of extraordinary balance. In a G&T, use a ratio of 1:3 or 1:4 (rather than the usual 1:2) to account for the higher ABV. The result is a G&T with more gin character than you'd believe possible while remaining perfectly drinkable.
But my recommendation? Try it in a Pink Gin — the classic naval serve. Two dashes of Angostura bitters, swirled around the glass and discarded, then Plymouth Navy Strength poured neat. It's austere, powerful, and utterly magnificent.
The Verdict
Plymouth Navy Strength is one of the finest gins produced in this country. It takes a style with genuine historical significance and delivers it with technical excellence and unmistakable character. If you've been hesitant about navy strength gins — perhaps put off by past encounters with aggressive, hot spirits — this is the bottle that will change your mind.
At its price point, it represents remarkable value for a gin of this quality and heritage. A bottle that belongs on every serious gin shelf.
