Plymouth Navy Strength Gin 57%

Description

Plymouth Navy Strength Gin, bottled at 57% ABV,  or 100° English proof. This was the traditional strength demanded by the British Royal Navy. This was the proof that would not prevent gunpowder from igniting, should spilled spirit compromise it. It is the gin the distillery has supplied to the Royal Navy since the early 1800s and is the gin traditionally presented to every Royal Navy ship on commissioning.

Plymouth Distillery

Plymouth Gin is a style of gin that by law can only be produced in Plymouth, England, it being a Protected Geographical Indication within the European Union. The Plymouth Gin Distillery (the Black Friars Distillery) is the only gin distillery located in Plymouth. It occupies what was once a Dominican Order monastery built in 1431 and has been in operation since 1793.

Plymouth Navy Strength Gin Botanicals

The recipe for Plymouth Gin itself dates from 1793; it comprises seven botanicals, or natural flavourings, blended in a proportion known only to a privileged few. For the regular gin drinker, who has little or no concern about gunpowder, Plymouth Navy Strength is a revelation. The 57% ABV amplifies the aroma and fragrance of the botanicals (Juniper Berries, Coriander Seed, Orange Peels, Lemon Peels, Angelica Root, Green Cardamom and Orris Root), yet retains the smooth and balanced character Plymouth Gin is renowned for. As with Plymouth Original, this is a handcrafted, batch distilled gin made to an 18th century recipe. Whilst stronger and more commanding than the 41.2% ABV Original Plymouth Gin, Navy Strength uses the same Victorian still, soft Dartmoor water and a combination of seven hand-selected botanicals.

Creation of the Gimlet

For decades, the Navy had been carrying lemons and limes to help prevent scurvy – but lemons and limes are not easy to digest on their own and they spoil easily on long voyages. In a brilliant moment, Sir Thomas D. Gimlette, a ship’s surgeon in the Royal Navy, squeezed some lime juice into Plymouth Navy Strength – and the Gimlet was born. They also produce a Sloe Gin.

See also Gunpowder Strength Rum.