Sipsmith London Dry Gin

Here’s a look at Sipsmith London Dry Gin—a beautifully designed bottle encapsulating London's first copper-pot distillery in nearly two centuries, crafting a modern classic.

Background & Distillery

• Sipsmith is a microdistillery in London, established in 2009 by Sam Galsworthy, Fairfax Hall, and Master Distiller Jared Brown. It holds the distinction of being the first copper-pot distillery to open in Greater London since the 1820s.

• The still, named Prudence, was custom-designed by German artisans and features prominently in the brand’s swan-necked bottle imagery .

The Gin: Style & Composition

• It’s a London Dry Gin—meaning all flavors are introduced during distillation (no sweeteners or colors post-distillation), with juniper as the dominant note and a minimum bottled strength of 37.5% ABV

• Bottled at 41.6% ABV, it follows a traditional base of wheat spirit and features ten classic botanicals: juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, orris root, liquorice root, ground almond, cassia bark, cinnamon, orange peel, and lemon peel 

Tasting Notes

Aroma (Nose)

• Offers a floral, summer meadow vibe, with round juniper, zesty citrus freshness, and hints of baked lemon tart and white pepper

Palate (Taste)

• Opens with piney juniper, followed by lemon tart and orange marmalade elements. Mid-palate brings fresh citrus, and the finish unfolds with warming spice—cassia, cinnamon, coriander—and delicate licorice creaminess 

Finish

• Dry and lingering, with a spicy juniper edge and a subtle lemon tart echo 

Reception & Performance

• Liquor.com praises it as an “elegant London dry-style gin,” appealing to both newcomers and seasoned gin lovers. It’s particularly recommended for Martinis, Negronis, and other classic spirit-forward cocktails. Awards include Double Gold from both the San Francisco and New York International Spirits Competitions 

• The Gin Guide emphasizes its zesty dryness and quality craftsmanship, ideal for G&Ts or Martinis

• A Redditor on r/Gin sums it up well:

  “I consider it the gold standard of affordable and available London Dry. Plenty of good gins cheaper, plenty of good gins more expensive. Sipsmith is 100% solid and right in the middle.” 

   

Summary Table

"Elegant bouquet, with aromas of refreshing crisp green apple, cucumber, and lacey fennel. The juniper plays effortlessly with the other botanicals to create an exquisite and classic London Dry expression. Mix with soda water and a bouquet of fresh cut herbs." 95 Points 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge