The 10 Best London Dry Gin
[Beginners & Enthusiasts]
Written by Taster's Club Internal Team | Update December 2025
Contrary to myths or tricks people like to play, "London Dry" doesn't mean the spirit must be made in London. What it actually refers to is the specific production process. Which is why it's such a sought-after type of gin. The hard part? There are so many choices out there and what one do you choose?
Whether you are a connoisseur looking for a premium spirit for your home shelf, or are a beginner ready to mix your first proper cocktail, we have you covered.
At Taster's Club, we’re passionate about helping you discover your next favorite sip, so we’ve put together our top curated London Dry Gin bottles you need to try. Let’s jump in.
The Top 10 London Dry Gin
Here are our top 10 recommendations for the best london dry gins that’ll impress you or any guest at your home.
1. Sipsmith London Dry Gin
Sipsmith London Dry Gin was created in 2009 by a team determined to bring small-batch distillation back to London. It’s produced in copper pot stills and follows a carefully honed recipe using classic botanicals. In fact, it adheres so strictly to traditional 18th-century recipes while feeling modern. Ideal for any gin enthusiast because of its bold profile.
Tasting Notes: The nose offers bold juniper and citrus aromas. The palate balances fresh herbs and citrus with hints of pepper. Its finish is clean, smooth, and crisp.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 41.6% | 750ml
Purchase Sipsmith London Dry Gin
2. Beefeater London Dry Gin
Beefeater London Dry Gin is another true classic that is so close to being our top recommendation. It remains one of the most awarded gins in the world because of its defining characteristic that comes from the 24-hour steeping process. The botanicals are soaked in grain spirit for a full day before distillation which supports optimal oil extraction and thus a remarkably bold flavor profile that holds up against any mixer. A must for any beginner looking for an accessible and affordable London dry gin.
Tasting Notes: This London dry gin opens with a classic nose of bold juniper, lemon, and a hint of coriander. On the palate, you’ll find crisp citrus with earthy roots and juniper. The finish is medium with subtle almond notes that linger.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 47.0% | 750ml
Purchase Beefeater London Dry Gin
3. Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin
Bombay Sapphire took the world by storm by doing things differently. Rather than boil them, the botanicals are gently vapor-infused to best capture their vibrant, clean, and bright aromas and flavors. Together, they give Bombay Sapphire Gin its smooth, balanced, complex body and taste, and crisp, clean finish. This creates a lighter, more floral spirit compared to the heavier, boiled-botanical styles. Perfect for beginners because of the less-pine heavy profile and smooth taste.
Tasting Notes: On the nose, you'll find aromas of lemon, floral, and a hint of mild pepper. The palate is light with notes of almond, lemon peel, and licorice. Finally, it finishes light and exits cleanly.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 47.0% | 750ml
Purchase Bombay Sapphire Gin
4. No. 3 London Dry Gin
No. 3 London Dry Gin is a top-tier gin that’s perfected over two years of detailed refinement. This gin is distilled in a century-old copper pot in Holland, the birthplace of gin. This bottle has also earned international recognition, claiming the title of "World’s Best" four times at the International Spirits Challenge. This is also our top selection from our main gin brands list.
Tasting Notes: Bright citrus and fragrant juniper dominate the nose. On the palate you’ll delight in that classic piney juniper with zesty orange and warm spices. The finish is crisp and clean.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml
Purchase No. 3 London Dry Gin
5. Tanqueray No. Ten
Tanqueray No. Ten is named after the stills from which it came. This gin is known worldwide for being a premium version of the classic Tanqueray gin. Specifically, No. Ten was introduced in 2000 and quickly became a favorite among gin enthusiasts and bartenders. Tanqueray No. Ten uses a unique blend of fresh citrus fruits alongside its core botanicals. This focus on fresh citrus sets it apart, crafting a bright and zesty flavor profile perfect for cocktails. Ideal for cocktail lovers and beginners looking for a beautiful gin.
Tasting Notes: You’ll easily notice that the nose opens with fresh citrus aromas that’s balanced by subtle floral chamomile notes. On the palate, it moves on to present smooth and bright juniper, coriander, and citrus flavors. The finish is crisp and refreshing.
Region: Scotland | ABV: 47.30% | 750ml
Purchase Tanqueray No. TenGin Lovers, This is Your Club
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Join the club that brings you expertly selected gin you won’t find on every shelf. Discover something new every month.
6. Himbrimi Winterbird London Dry Gin
Created by artist Óskar Ericsson from Iceland, this gin is inspired by the scent of wild herbs along the banks of Icelandic rivers. It uses wild arctic thyme and hand-picked angelica flowers. What makes it unique is the use of geothermal water in the process, for both sustainability and incredible purity. This London dry gin totally bridges the gap between a classic London Dry structure and the wild, floral nature of the Arctic. Definitely for the enthusiast.
Tasting Notes: On the nose, you’ll experience notes of lavender, arctic thyme, and fresh floral honey. The palate is soft with hints of angelica, citrus, and distinct herbal undertones. It has a long and floral finish.
Region: Iceland | ABV: 40.0% | 700ml
Purchase Himbrimi Winterbird London Dry Gin
7. Bulldog Gin London Dry
The Bulldog Gin London Dry was created to challenge the traditional gins on the market. While it is made in England, it incorporates 12 botanicals from eight different countries, including unique additions like dragon eye, white poppy, and lotus leaves. From there, its quadruple distilled in copper pot stills. While it technically respects the rules of production, they are known for their unique methods that push the boundaries of production. This is another pick for the gin connoisseur who wants something exotic.
Tasting Notes: You’ll find that this London dry gin has a nose that presents subtle citrus, lavender, and juniper. On the palate, it’s nutty and sweet with lychee, cinnamon, and a touch of mild juniper. The finish is fresh and crisp.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml
Purchase Bulldog Gin London Dry
8. Broker's Gin London Dry Gin
This London dry gin is a multi-award-winning spirit made from a 200-year-old recipe. It's produced in a copper pot still near Birmingham using wheat spirit and ten classic botanicals. It is arguably one of the best value-for-money gins on the market because of the premium experience at such an accessible price point. It's unapologetically classic and great for beginners or those new to London Dry Gin. Something that can start a conversation with any distinguished guest.
Tasting Notes: This gin opens with dry aromas of apple peel, citrus, and pungent juniper. You’ll then be presented with a spicy and peppery palette, with notes of nutmeg and dry herbs. It finishes with a medium length.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 47.0% | 750ml
Purchase Broker’s London Dry Gin
9. The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
What sets The Botanist apart is its use of 22 hand-foraged botanicals, all sourced locally from Islay’s diverse landscape. Each botanical is carefully harvested by expert foragers and distilled slowly using a Lomond still named “Ugly Betty.” This creates a meticulous and artisanal gin every time, that has immense complexity for the enthusiast who wants to savor every sip.
Tasting Notes: The Botanist presents beautiful wildflowers and herbs on the nose. The palate brings soft floral tones with notes of juniper and citrus. Its finish is smooth.
Region: Scotland | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml
Purchase The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
10. Whitley Neill London Dry Gin
Johnny Neill, an 8th-generation distiller, launched the brand to honor his family's legacy while incorporating flavors inspired by his wife's African heritage. While they’re famous for their flavored gins, the Whitley Neill London Dry Gin is a cut above the rest. It features dried baobab fruit and Cape gooseberries alongside traditional botanicals. The result is a beautiful gin that’s softer and smoother than traditional recipes. Presentable but unique, and why it’s made our top 10 london dry gins.
Tasting Notes: This London dry gin opens with bold citrus, sweet spice, and floral aromas on the nose. The palate is creamy with cocoa butter, candied lemon, and orange notes. It finishes beautifully and long with a touch of exotic spices.
Region: United Kingdom | ABV: 43.0% | 750ml
Purchase Whitley Neill London Dry GinHow To Find The Best Gin
Finding the perfect gin for the gin lover in your life should be a fun adventure. One of the best ways to do this is by joining the Gin Club from Taster's Club.
This subscription service offers members the chance to explore an incredible variety of gins, from classic London dry styles to unique, botanical-forward craft gins.
Each month, members receive a carefully curated bottle of premium gin, complete with detailed tasting notes and fascinating insights into the distillery's heritage and production methods.
Plus, Taster’s Club offers popular 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month prepaid subscriptions. Perfect for gifting or exploring new flavors on your own terms.
Whether you're a gin enthusiast or just starting your gin journey, Taster’s Club lets you discover exciting new and expertly selected gins at your own pace.
Gin Lovers, This is Your Club
Join the club that brings you expertly selected gin you won’t find on every shelf. Discover something new every month.
Gin Lovers, This is Your Club
Join the club that brings you expertly selected gin you won’t find on every shelf. Discover something new every month.
How to Best Enjoy London Dry Gin
To truly appreciate a London dry gin, we recommend first trying it neat to really taste the profile that the distiller intended you to experience. Then, try with a splash of water. This will go on to reveal new characteristics.
Or, for the classic experience, mix a Gin and Tonic. Begin by using a ratio of one part gin to three parts premium tonic water. The key here is a high-quality tonic so you don’t ruin your beautiful gin you’ve just picked out.
If you are feeling fancy, maybe consider a Dry Martini. The juniper-heavy profile of these gins pairs beautifully with dry vermouth. Pro tip, use plenty of ice to get it very cold for that perfect sip.
Commonly Asked Questions
What's the Difference Between London Dry Gin and Regular Gin?
The main difference is from the production methods for the different gins. London Dry Gin must be distilled to a high strength and all botanicals must be natural and added during the distillation process. Nothing can be added after distillation except water and a tiny amount of sugar.
However, "regular" or distilled gin allows for flavors or sweeteners to be added after the distillation which can result in a sweeter or more artificial taste profile.
This is why London Dry Gin is sought by spirit lovers. It’s the cleanest gin you can get.
What’s the Best London Dry Gin for an Enthusiast or Beginner?
For a beginner, Beefeater or Tanqueray No. 10 are easily the best choices that are accessible and versatile for any shelf.
For an enthusiast, The Botanist Islay Dry Gin or Sipsmith London Dry offer more complexity with a refined palate that presents layers of rare botanicals. You can truly taste the expert craftsmanship in every sip.
What’s the Best Cocktail to Make With London Dry Gin?
Because it is dry and juniper-forward, London Dry Gin cuts through mixers beautifully. It is the best choice for a Gin & Tonic, a Negroni, or a Martini. It also works wonders in a Tom Collins for a refreshing summer sip.
Discover More Amazing Spirits
Make Every Month a Gin Adventure
At Taster’s Club, pursuing the best gin becomes an exciting adventure, check out our extensive bottle shop, or if you want a more personalized gin experience, join our Gin Club!
Make Every Month a Gin Adventure
At Taster’s Club, pursuing the best gin becomes an exciting adventure, check out our extensive bottle shop, or if you want a more personalized gin experience, join our Gin Club!
