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What are the key botanicals in Plymouth gin?

Quick answer

Plymouth Gin uses seven botanicals: juniper, coriander, lemon peel, sweet orange peel, sweet angelica root, orris root and cardamom. Difford's Guide says no bitter botanicals are used. Plymouth Original Strength is 41.2 percent ABV.

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In this article
  1. What are the botanicals in Plymouth gin?
  2. How strong is Plymouth gin?
  3. Where is it made?
  4. How does it taste?
  5. How should you use it?

What are the botanicals in Plymouth gin?

Plymouth Gin is made with seven botanicals. Difford’s Guide lists them in order of dominance:

Botanical General role in a gin
Juniper The defining gin flavor, piney and resinous
Coriander seed Citrusy, slightly spicy
Lemon peel Bright citrus
Sweet orange peel Soft, sweet citrus
Sweet angelica root Earthy, woody
Orris root Delicate, floral
Cardamom Aromatic spice

Difford’s notes that no bitter botanicals are used. Some websites list licorice root, almond shells or cassia; those are not in the seven above, so ignore them.

How strong is Plymouth gin?

Plymouth Original Strength is 41.2 percent ABV (82.4 proof). Other strengths are sold, so check the label of the bottle you buy.

Where is it made?

It is made at the Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, England, which is part of the Pernod Ricard Group, using a 7,000-litre copper pot still that Difford’s says has been in regular use for over 150 years. Some sources describe Plymouth as a protected style; we could not verify the legal status.

How does it taste?

Tasting notes vary, but with juniper, citrus and a few earthy and floral botanicals it is generally seen as a balanced all-round gin.

How should you use it?

  • Gin and tonic: with a lemon or orange slice.
  • Martini or gimlet: a common choice for classic gin cocktails.
  • Negroni: works as a classic base; taste is personal.

People also ask

What botanicals are in Plymouth gin?

Juniper, coriander, lemon peel, sweet orange peel, sweet angelica, orris root and cardamom.

How strong is Plymouth gin?

The Original Strength is 41.2 percent ABV (82.4 proof).

Does Plymouth gin contain bitter botanicals?

Difford's Guide says no bitter botanicals are used.

General information only, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, ask your doctor before changing what you drink.

Sources

  1. Difford's Guide: Plymouth Gin (Original Strength), read 6 Nov 2026
Written by Drinks Type Editorial Team · Published Feb 29, 2024 · Updated Nov 6, 2026
About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections

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