Gin Lane 1751 Old Tom Gin is a full-bodied, slightly sweeter Victorian-style gin, made in small batches at Thames Distillers in London and bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV).
Gin Lane 1751 is named for a landmark on the gin timeline: the Gin Act of 1751, brought about in part by artist William Hogarth's famous engraving Gin Lane, which helped turn gin from a gutter spirit into the genteel drink we know today. The gins were created by The Bloomsbury Club, a group of gin lovers and drinks professionals, with Charles Maxwell of Thames Distillers in Clapham, London, a master distiller whose family has been making gin for generations.
Old Tom is the style of gin that preceded London Dry. It got its name from the wooden plaques shaped like black cats, "Old Toms," displayed outside the doors of 18th-century pubs and drinking halls to signal that gin was served. Influenced by the Dutch genever, the style has less botanical sharpness than London Dry.
Gin Lane's version is a smooth, full-flavored gin with a softer, slightly sweeter profile: silky on the palate, with a sweet yet dry finish, and prominent notes of star anise, juniper and citrus. It is sweetened with refined sugarcane and smooth enough to sip on its own.
Its silky texture makes it an exceptional choice for rounding out classic cocktails like the Martinez or a refreshing Tom Collins, and it adds a gentle sweetness to a Negroni or a Gin Fizz.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Juniper, star anise, citrus.
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Palate: Silky, softly sweet, juniper and anise.
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Finish: Sweet yet dry.
Specifications
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Distillery: Thames Distillers, London
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Style: Old Tom gin, Victorian style
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Sweetness: Lightly sweetened with refined sugarcane
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Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Stir a Martinez, mix a Tom Collins, or soften a Negroni with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Old Tom gin?
A softer, slightly sweeter style that preceded London Dry.
Where does the name come from?
Black-cat 'Old Tom' plaques outside 18th-century London pubs.
What cocktails suit it?
The Martinez and the Tom Collins.
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