Is gin a spirit?

Yes - gin a type of alcoholic spirit along with others such as rum, vodka, rum, whisky, brandy etc. In the UK, it must be at least 37.5% ABV (alcohol by volume). And juniper must be its main flavour.

Gin starts life as a neutral spirit (often grain spirit) and it is then distilled with botanicals (which must include juniper and often include other things such as lemon peel, cardamom and coriander).

In recent years, more exotic botanicals such as seaweed, cocoa nibs and all manner of fruits have been used as gin has become more popular and gin makers have become more adventurous (and numerous).

It is mixed with water to reach the final required strength of at least 37.5%.

Many gins are stronger than this minimum strength. Five of our gins (London Dry, Old Tom, Grey Lady, Chocolate & Orange and Roman Fruit) are 42.5% ABV. 

These have all won major awards including Gold Outstanding at the International Wine & Spirit Competition and Best English Old Tom at the World Gin Awards.

A Navy Strength gin must be at least 57% ABV - and York Gin Outlaw Navy Strength is exactly this. This is the recipient of a Double Gold medal the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Awards.

Take a look at the award-winning York Gin range