Hayman's - Old Tom Gin (750ml)
Hayman’s Old Tom Gin is a rich and rounded style of gin that was the gin of choice in the 19th Century, made to the family’s original recipe as then produced. Relative to London Dry Gin, the Old Tom style imparts a more complex and flavorful taste experience, with a slight sweetness that pleasantly rounds out the botanical base. From the 10 Hayman’s botanicals, the Old Tom Gin emphasizes juniper and two types of cinnamon. Old Tom gin is the key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Martinez, Tom Collins and Ramos Gin Fizz. Its depth and rich profile make for an ideal Aviation or French 75.
Hayman's Description
An original in their category, the Hayman family is the oldest gin-distilling family in London, having started their work in 1863. Company founder James Burrough was the great-great-grandfather of the current chairpersons, Miranda Hayman and James Hayman. Burrough was a true pioneer in the history of gin, innovating both process and profile. Not long after the Single Bottle Act of 1861, which allowed gin to be sold in bottles, Burrough set out to develop cleaner and more expressive profiles made possible with glass packaging. He employed a more expansive set of botanicals than his predecessors, and drew accolades as the first to employ citrus. The resulting profiles set a new standard that, for many drinks enthusiasts, remain benchmarks for traditional English gin.
Wine Enthusiast: 96 Points
This is clear in the glass, with a lightly sweet, complex aroma that promises lemon peel, anise and vanilla. The slightly viscous palate delivers anise, powdered sugar and vanilla, finishing with cinnamon piquancy. Overall pleasing, it boasts a classic flavor profile that's exactly what an Old Tom gin is expected to be.