What are some cocktails that can be made with Old Raj gin?

What is Old Raj gin?

Old Raj is a dry gin with saffron added after distillation, which gives it a slight golden tint. A review of the 55% ABV bottling (110 proof) describes the saffron as subtle and well integrated, with juniper and orange notes, and calls it a gin that holds up in cocktails. A lower-strength version also exists, so check the label for ABV.

Which cocktails suit Old Raj?

• Martini: the best place to taste the saffron. Stir with ice, strain, and keep the vermouth light.
• Negroni: equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and a bitter red aperitif. The high-strength gin stays visible against the bitterness.
• Gin and tonic: use a dry, bitter tonic and plenty of ice. The reviewer found the saffron still noticeable with a bitter tonic and lost with more assertive mixers.
• Gimlet or gin sour: gin, fresh lime or lemon juice and a little sugar syrup, shaken and strained.
• Neat or over one large ice cube: worth trying once to know the flavor.

Tips for a 55% gin

• Because it is stronger than standard 40% gin, you can use a little less, or stir longer for more dilution.
• Measure carefully. A 55% pour has noticeably more alcohol than the same volume of 40% gin.
• Use fresh citrus and clean ice. Strongly flavored mixers such as cola or sweet fruit juice can bury the saffron.
• Keep garnishes simple: an orange or lemon peel.

Is it worth buying just for cocktails?

Saffron is the point of difference, but it is quiet. If you mostly mix with strong flavors, any good high-proof dry gin will work almost as well. If you like martinis and bitter drinks, Old Raj is a good fit.

This is general guidance, not a recipe from the producer. Drink responsibly.