How does Plymouth gin compare to other types of gin?
Plymouth gin is softer, earthier and less juniper-heavy than most London Dry gins, with more root botanicals and a slightly lower strength of 82.4 proof. It is made at the Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England, and has been produced since 1793.
Free download
Home Bar Storage Chart (PDF): How long liqueurs, spirits, wine and mixers last, opened and unopened. 25 rows, each with its source.
Thank you
Your chart is ready
We use your email only for this download.Also free:
Milk and Dairy Storage Chart (PDF)Juice, Soda and Water Storage Chart (PDF)Coffee, Tea and Hot Drinks Storage Chart (PDF)Drink Strength, Calories and Units Cheat Sheet (PDF)Want the full pack? About 10 printable sheets: a larger chart for each drink type, a “has it gone off?” checklist, date labels, a party planner and an inventory sheet.
In this article
How does Plymouth gin compare?
According to VinePair, Plymouth gin dates to 1793 and is made at the Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England, the only distillery producing it. It is classed within London Dry, meaning it follows the same requirements, but it tastes distinct.
Side by side
| Plymouth | London Dry (e.g. Tanqueray, Beefeater) | Old Tom | Genever | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taste | Earthy, soft, citrus, touch of sweetness | Juniper-forward, dry | Lightly sweet | Malty, rich |
| Proof | 82.4 | About 94 | Varies by brand | Varies by brand |
| Made | Plymouth, England only | Anywhere | Anywhere | Netherlands and Belgium mainly |
Proof figures come from VinePair (Tanqueray 94.6, Beefeater 94). Old Tom and genever vary by brand.
Taste differences
Plymouth uses more root botanicals, which give it savory spice and earthiness. London Dry tends to push juniper and citrus peel forward.
Which to use?
- Martini with lemon twist: one bartender quoted by VinePair calls Plymouth perfect for a Martini with a twist of lemon.
- Gin and tonic: London Dry if you want a juniper-forward taste.
Who makes it
VinePair says Black Friars is currently the only distillery making Plymouth gin, so every bottle comes from the same place, unlike London Dry, which can be made anywhere.
Buying tips
Choose by how you plan to drink it, and try a small bottle. Look for the style name and the proof on the label. If you already own a London Dry gin, pour a little of each side by side, neat and then with tonic, and note which you prefer.
General guidance, not a ranking.
People also ask
Is Plymouth gin sweeter than London Dry?
It has a touch of sweetness and a weighty feel, but it is still a dry gin, not a sweetened style.
Where is Plymouth gin made?
At the Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England.
Is Plymouth gin weaker than London Dry?
Slightly. VinePair lists Plymouth at 82.4 proof against about 94 proof for Tanqueray and Beefeater.
Sources
About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections
What would help you most next?
One tap. Anonymous. It helps us decide what to build.
Thank you. The free charts above are yours to keep.
