Taster’s Club Best Gins for Martinis in 2024
Written by Emma C | Updated May 2024
Few cocktails have stood the test of time quite like the martini. Synonymous with elegance and sophistication, this classic drink has been a staple at upscale bars and cocktail parties since its inception. From James Bond's "shaken, not stirred" catchphrase to its iconic V-shaped glass, the martini is more than just a cocktail—it's a symbol of style.
But what makes a martini truly exceptional? The choice of gin. In 2024, Taster's Club has taken on the task of curating a list of the best gins for crafting the perfect martini. Drawing on the expertise of seasoned bartenders and spirit industry veterans, our selection promises to elevate your home bartending game.
Join us as we explore the history of the martini and unveil the top gins that will transform your next cocktail experience. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a budding home bartender, or a devoted gin lover, this guide is your key to mastering one of the world's most iconic drinks.
Best Gins for Martinis in 2023: Available in Our Bottle Shop
1. Hendrick's Gin
Hendrick’s is an unusual gin created from 11 fine botanicals. Infusions of rose and cucumber imbue the spirit with a uniquely balanced flavor resulting in an impeccably smooth, distinct gin. On the nose, you’ll also notice juniper, orange, lime, and elderflower. On the tongue, you’ll get a classic gin flavor with notes like coriander, juniper, and citrus, followed by a warm, long finish.
Region: Scotland | Tasting Notes: Coriander, Juniper, Citrus | ABV: 41.4%
2. Sipsmith London Dry Gin
This is a quintessential expression of a classic, traditional London Dry gin. Bold, complex, and aromatic, this Sipsmith spirit is smooth enough for a martini, yet rich and balanced, perfect for a gin & tonic. Born in 2007, the distillery is now a proud certified B Corporation.
Region: London, England | Tasting Notes: Orange, Honey, Angelica Root | ABV: 41.6%
3. Gray Whale Gin
Gray Whale spirits are inspired by California and perfected with sustainably-sourced or wildly forged ingredients. The brand supports Oceana and 1% for the Planet, to help protect and preserve the world’s oceans. In its gin, you’ll find a citrus aroma, followed by juniper and a subtle hint of cool coastal fir trees. Fresh mint and the umami flavors of kombu sea kelp are then rounded out by a long-lasting, creamy almond finish.
Region: California | Tasting Notes: Mint, Sea Kelp, Almond | ABV: 43%
4. Monkey 47
This elegant, fruity, medium-bodied dry gin from Monkey 47 is made completely by hand with 47 ingredients, Germany’s soft Black Forest water, and traditional distilling techniques. It offers aromas of juniper, lemon peel, cucumber, and mint. Next, you’ll taste clove and grapefruit, followed by a long, refined finish.
Region: Germany | Tasting Notes: Clove, Grapefruit | ABV: 47%
5. Nikka Coffey Gin
Coffey Gin’s complexity is achieved through the perfect balance between 11 selected botanicals and the silky texture of coffey distillates. The bright and zesty aroma originating from four kinds of Japanese citruses complements the traditional gin botanicals of juniper berries, angelica, coriander seeds, lemon, and orange peels.
Region: Japan | Tasting Notes: Lemon, Orange, Peppercorn | ABV: 47%
6. Nolet's Silver Gin
NOLET’S Silver is a fresh and surprising take on gin featuring real botanicals of fragrant rose, juicy peach, and slightly tart raspberry. Extra care is taken to individually macerate and then distill each botanical used in NOLET’S. The gin base and botanical extracts are married and rested to fully integrate the botanical flavors. This results in a smooth, balanced spirit with soft floral aromas, a fruit-driven palate, and a classic dry finish.
Region: Netherlands | Tasting Notes: Raspberry, Orris Root, Licorice | ABV: 47.6%
7. Roku Gin
Crafted by Japanese artisans with meticulous attention to detail, Roku Gin is precisely balanced. Inside each bottle are six botanicals sourced in Japan, each harvested in their ideal season and from the best growing areas, combined with eight traditional gin botanicals. A unique multiple-distillation process brings out the best in each botanical.
Region: Japan | Tasting Notes: Cherry Blossom, Green Tea, Bergamot, Pepper | ABV: 43%
8. The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
Ford’s Gin is distilled in London and made with botanicals from all over the world, including Spain, Haiti, Morocco, China, and Italy. On the nose, you’ll get spice, juniper, floral notes, lavender, and cream. The complex spirit offers a thick, rich flavor of florals, citrus, juniper, and earthy notes.
Region: London, England | Tasting Notes: Floral, Citrus, Juniper, Earth | ABV: 45%
9. Ford's London Dry Gin
Ford’s Gin is distilled in London and made with botanicals from all over the world, including Spain, Haiti, Morocco, China, and Italy. On the nose, you’ll get spice, juniper, floral notes, lavender, and cream. The complex spirit offers a thick, rich flavor of florals, citrus, juniper, and earthy notes.
Region: London, England | Tasting Notes: Floral, Citrus, Juniper, Earth | ABV: 45%
10. Plymouth Gin
The rich and smooth taste of Plymouth Gin is the result of a balanced blend of seven hand-selected botanicals. The spirit gives earthy angelica, juniper, coriander, and cardamom aromas. You’ll taste similar flavors along with lemon, orange, and nutmeg, followed by a mid-length, warm finish.
Region: England | Tasting Notes: Angelica, Coriander, Cardamom, Citrus | ABV: 41.2%
With this list of the best gins for martinis, you’ll be well on your way to cocktail bliss. Any of these bottles are perfect for relaxing at the end of a long week or just enjoying the company of friends. If you’d rather leave the decisions up to us, though, we’re happy to do the work for you. Just sign up for our Gin Club and await a wonderful new bottle each and every month.
Not finding the Gin thats right for you and do not want a commitment? Then checkout our Gin Collection in our Bottle Shop!
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