First Impressions
Sipsmith London Cup (formerly Summer Cup) is inspired by the punches and cups of 18th-century London. Earl Grey tea, borage, lemon verbena and other botanicals are infused into Sipsmith's London Dry Gin. At 29.5%, it is designed for mixing with lemonade on summer days.
Tasting
The nose is wonderfully aromatic — pronounced juniper oils, burnt orange peel, herbal aromas and peppery spice. On the palate, enlivening spicy herbal fruit with strong piney juniper, cracked pepper, clove, lemon verbena, zesty marmalade and tannic Earl Grey. The finish is long and spicy with scorched oak.
The Bottom Line
Sipsmith London Cup earns a 7 for the summer cup that rescued and reinvigorated the category. The Earl Grey tea adds tannic structure, and the decent ABV means it holds its own mixed three parts with lemonade. Generously garnish with summer fruits and enjoy in the sun.
