We have a game we play sometimes, if the conversation starts to lag a bit.
It’s called “Top 5…”.
Someone announces the category (like “Top 5 biscuits” or “Top 5 crisp flavours”) and everyone debates their favourites. It’s more fun than it sounds – try it!
Anyway, I thought I’d give it a whirl with gin.
It’s too hard. I couldn’t choose a top 5 without overlooking a favourite. So I changed the rules, and introduced categories.
This is what I’ve come up with so far:
House gin: Portobello Rd
You really can’t beat Portobello for value and chameleonic adaptability.
Specifically designed to work in both Negroni and Martini, it’s a classic gin-drinkers gin; balancing juniper and citrus with a pleasing peppery finish.
Prestige quality at supermarket prices, there’s a reason it’s a common “house” gin, my house included.
I nearly chose: Langley’s No. 8
Small batch gin: Daffy’s
The beautiful bottle and packaging is the first thing you’ll notice about Daffy’s. Don’t worry though, the contents are even better.
I nearly chose: Slingsby
Spicy gin: Whitley Neil
I love the gentle spice of Whitley Neil in a Negroni. To my palette it perfectly complements the orangey bittersweet balance of my favourite cocktail.
I nearly chose: Hmm, not really a strong second here.
Floral gin: Bloom
Another lovely bottle, and a great subtle gin inside. It’s a gentle, aromatic, affair; best enjoyed in a G&T or any drink that allows the gin room to breathe.
I nearly chose: Rock Rose
Old Tom gin: Hayman’s Old Tom
There are some cocktails that just don’t work with London Dry, so having a bottle of Old Tom in the house is a must.
I nearly chose: Jensen’s Old Tom
Do you disagree?
Good.
This is not supposed to be the definitive answer. The joy of Top 5ing is passionately debating things that can’t possibly have a right or wrong answer. I probably don’t even agree with myself.
So what are your Top 5?
The Oilcan Mixologist 