5 navy strength gins to try

Looking for navy strength gins? Try our pick, and use them to make our best gin cocktails.

What is navy strength gin?

Navy strength is the term for a gin that’s at least 57% ABV. The history of this style stretches back to the 18^th century, when gin was stored on British Navy ships next to the gunpowder. If the gin spilt and got into the gunpowder, then the higher proof would ensure that the gunpowder still exploded.

Today, navy strength gins are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. The extra alcohol amplifies the flavours of the spirit, making them a great choice for cocktails. They also tend to have a more rounded, creamier mouthfeel. Intrigued? Here are a few of our favourites.

Best navy strength gins to try

Portobello Road Navy Strength Gin, £24.95, Master of Malt

A punchier take on its juniper-forward, citrussy 171 London Dry, the addition of English sea salt gives this smooth spirit a distinct saline character. 

Flavour profile: Juniper forward

Botanicals: Sea salt, juniper, coriander seed, angelica, orris, lemon peel, liquorice, nutmeg and cassia bark

Perfect pairing: Try in a dirty martini.

Hayman’s Navy Strength Royal Dock Gin, £31.75, The Whisky Exchange

Hayman’s Royal Dock has an aromatic nose with citrus and floral notes, namely orange blossom wafting out as soon as you begin to pour. The mouthfeel is smooth, but also carries an unrivalled botanical intensity of flavour thanks to the higher strength. It’s a classic of the genre and a must-have gin for lovers of this over-proof style.

Flavour profile: juniper forward

Botanicals: juniper, citrus, coriander

Perfect pairing: tonic and a wedge of lime.

Plymouth Gin Navy Strength, £38.33, Amazon

A classic, deservedly acclaimed navy-strength gin. Rich and aromatic, with juniper, coriander and cardamom notes.

Flavour profile: juniper forward

Botanicals: juniper, coriander seed, orange and lemon peel, angelica, orris, green cardamom.

Perfect pairing: try in a gimlet.

Perry’s Tot Navy Strength Gin, USA, £48, Master of Malt

New York Distilling Co uses wild-flower honey from upstate New York in this juniper-forward gin, which is characterised by warming spice and earthy orange notes.

Flavour profile: juniper

Botanicals: juniper, cinnamon, cardamom, lemon, orange and grapefruit peel, star anise and wild-flower honey

Perfect pairing: sparkling water and a wedge of lime.

Black Powder Flintlock Navy Strength Gin, £50, Black Powder Gin

This award-winning, punchy gin (60% ABV!) packs in flavour, with bold, peppery spice and a savoury edge. 

Flavour profile: Spiced

Botanicals: coriander, grains of paradise, chamomile, red grapefruit, cassia, juniper, cubeb.

Perfect pairing: Try in a negroni.