Cotswolds Old Tom Gin, a spirit that feels like a warm smile from the English countryside. Inspired by the 18th-century style of gin once served from secret “Old Tom” plaques in London’s back alleys, this expression revives a forgotten classic with a Cotswolds twist. It’s sweeter, richer, and softer than a London Dry, the taste of craftsmanship and nostalgia in perfect harmony.

Cotswolds Old Tom Gin
Brand: Cotswolds Distillery | Category: Old Tom Gin | ABV: 42% | Origin: England | Volume: 700ml

Tasting Profile:
Nose: Inviting and aromatic, notes of honeyed citrus, juniper, and light spice rise first, followed by vanilla, orange peel, and a gentle floral sweetness. It’s the scent of an English orchard after rain.
Palate: Smooth, rounded, and subtly sweet. Classic Cotswolds botanicals, juniper, grapefruit, cardamom, and angelica, are softened with a touch of sugar and botanical syrup. Layers of citrus, spice, and vanilla unfold gracefully, with a creamy texture that lingers on the tongue.
Finish: Long and mellow, fading with hints of orange zest, honey, and warming spice. The sweetness is delicate, never cloying, a perfect bridge between tradition and refinement.

Production Details:
Crafted in small copper pot stills at the award-winning Cotswolds Distillery, this Old Tom begins with the same rich botanical base as their acclaimed Dry Gin. It’s then lightly sweetened with natural sugar and infused with extra citrus and spice for a smooth, full bodied profile. Every bottle reflects the distillery’s commitment to authenticity, using traditional methods and hand-selected botanicals sourced from the English countryside.

Perfect For:
Late afternoons and easy evenings, when conversation flows and the pace slows down. Perfect for cocktails like the Tom Collins or Martinez, or simply served over ice with premium tonic and a slice of orange. It’s comfort in a glass, made for those who appreciate balance and charm.

Expert Notes:
Critics praise Cotswolds Old Tom for its refined sweetness and natural depth. Described as “a masterclass in restraint,” it’s been hailed as one of the best modern examples of the Old Tom style, offering elegance, not excess. Bartenders love its versatility, noting how it adds warmth and richness to both classic and contemporary serves.

Customer Reviews:
“It’s the kind of gin that makes you slow down.”   Anna P.
“Just the right touch of sweetness, makes the best Tom Collins I’ve ever had.”   Luke H.
“Elegant and comforting. You can taste the countryside in every sip.”   Ella S.

Interesting Fact:
The term Old Tom comes from 18th-century England, when illicit gin was sold through hidden wall plaques shaped like black cats, “Old Toms.” Customers would drop coins in the cat’s mouth, and the bartender would pour gin through a tube into their waiting glass. Cotswolds revives that playful spirit of secrecy and charm, now distilled with modern precision.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve over ice with premium tonic and an orange slice for a smooth, balanced G&T. For a cocktail, try it in a Tom Collins, Martinez, or even an Old Tom Negroni, the subtle sweetness adds richness and roundness. It’s also delightful sipped neat, allowing the floral spice to shine.

Distillery Background:
Founded in 2014 in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, The Cotswolds Distillery is one of England’s most celebrated craft distillers. Known for its dedication to local ingredients, small-batch production, and traditional copper distillation, the distillery has earned global acclaim for both its whiskies and gins. The Old Tom Gin perfectly embodies their ethos, rooted in heritage, crafted with honesty, and finished with unmistakable Cotswolds elegance.