The National Distillery Company's New Zealand Navy Strength Gin, known as Old Navy, is a juniper-led London Dry-style gin bottled at a formidable 116 proof (58% ABV).
Inspired by a classic London Dry bouquet, it pairs juniper with a supporting duo of lemon peel and native New Zealand flaxseed, a tip of the hat to the pirates. The recipe begins with a clean, whey-derived neutral spirit, chosen through extensive blind tastings, and a traditional botanical core. The distillery takes a grain-to-glass approach and is housed in a historic 1930s Art Nouveau landmark building. Old Navy is a Gold and Double Gold medalist at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Gold medal winner at the New Zealand Spirits Awards.
Traditional pine and citrus notes are embellished and guided to a deeper place by the unctuous yet finely structured tones of New Zealand orris root. As genuine navy-strength gin, it is designed to retain its aromatic presence through dilution, ice, tonic, vermouth and strongly flavored cocktail ingredients, composed rather than merely aggressive.
The art deco-inspired label makes it a handsome gift for gin enthusiasts.
New Zealand botanicals give the gin a sense of place that sets it apart from British and American gins.
A few drops go a long way in cocktails, so it rewards careful measuring.
Try it in a Gimlet with fresh lime cordial for a bold, bracing drink.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Juniper pine and lemon peel.
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Palate: Citrus, flaxseed, orris root.
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Strength: Navy strength, 58%.
Specifications
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Distillery: The National Distillery Company, New Zealand
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Style: Navy-strength London Dry-style gin
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Botanicals: Juniper, lemon peel, NZ flaxseed, NZ orris root
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Base: Whey-derived neutral spirit
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Proof / ABV: 116 proof (58% ABV)
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Region: New Zealand
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
A natural choice for a concentrated Martini, a forceful Gimlet, or a Negroni where the gin must remain the central voice. It pairs with oysters, green-lipped mussels or citrus-cured fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is navy strength?
Gin bottled around 57% ABV or more; this one is 58%.
What makes it New Zealand?
Native flaxseed and New Zealand orris root.
Has it won awards?
Gold and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Explore more in our Gin collection.
