First Impressions
Portobello Road No. 171 takes its name from the address where the gin was originally conceived — 171 Portobello Road in London's Notting Hill. The gin is an intentional throwback: an old-style London Dry containing traditional botanicals and spices that harks back to the gins of yesteryear. Nine botanicals, a wheat spirit base, and a 42% ABV that gives it proper London Dry authority.
The Distillery
Portobello Road Distillery produces No. 171 using nine botanicals: juniper, lemon peel, bitter orange peel, coriander seed, orris root, angelica, cassia bark, liquorice, and nutmeg. Every ingredient is a classic London Dry botanical — there are no contemporary additions, no foraged wildflowers, no exotic imports. This is gin as the Victorians would have recognised it.
Tasting
The nose is herbaceous with green juniper, subtle hints of meadow and grass. An invigorating burst of juniper is followed by citrus freshness, coriander warmth, and smooth orris-angelica earthiness.
On the palate, primary juniper, citrus, and coriander provide the classic London Dry trio. Warm spice from nutmeg and cassia bark adds interest — it is a 'warm, interest-adding' spice rather than heat. Savoury celery-like notes from angelica root add an earthy dimension. The nine-botanical bill is classically composed and expertly balanced.
The finish features lingering liquorice and nutmeg — peppery and lasting. The liquorice provides sweetness, the nutmeg warmth.
How to Drink It
The distillery's own description says it best: 'enough robust gin flavours to make a G&T that tastes of gin, enough elegance to work in a Martini, and enough depth of character to work in a Negroni.' All three serves are excellent.
The Bottom Line
Portobello Road No. 171 earns an 8 for producing one of the finest examples of traditional London Dry gin. The nine-botanical bill is a masterclass in classical composition, and the deliberate old-style character creates a gin of genuine versatility. At around £28, the value is outstanding for a gin of this quality. Named for a Notting Hill address, but the liquid belongs in any serious gin collection anywhere.
