Hayman's Old Tom Gin is part of our Old Tom Gin collection. It comes from Hayman's Gin and is crafted in England.
Hayman's Old Tom Gin revives a sweeter, botanically rich style popular in 18th-century England, offering a bridge between modern dry gins and the maltier Dutch genevers. Interestingly, this gin style earned its name from the cat-shaped plaques mounted outside London pubs, where patrons could deposit a coin and receive a shot of gin from a tube extending from the cat's paw - a clever workaround during a period of strict gin sales regulations.
Hayman's Old Tom Gin is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of cocktail history. This gin style, sweeter than London Dry but drier than genever, was essential to many classic 19th-century cocktails like the Martinez and Tom Collins, making it perfect for recreating vintage recipes or adding a unique twist to modern drinks.
Hayman's Old Tom Gin shines in classic gin-forward cocktails, where its subtle sweetness and botanical complexity can take center stage. While delightful year-round, this gin truly comes alive in spring and summer, perfect for sipping on the rocks with a twist of lemon or pairing with light, herbal dishes that complement its juniper and citrus notes.
Nose: Bright juniper leads, followed by subtle citrus notes of lemon zest and orange peel. There's a delicate sweetness reminiscent of candied violets and a hint of coriander spice.
Palate: Smooth and slightly sweet entry. Juniper is present but not overpowering, balanced by licorice root and a touch of cinnamon. The gin's trademark sweetness comes through as vanilla and almond, with a gentle earthy undertone.
Finish: Medium-long finish with lingering sweetness. Juniper and citrus notes fade, leaving a pleasant warmth and subtle spice. A faint hint of star anise appears at the very end.
Hayman's Old Tom Gin is crafted using a traditional two-day process, starting with a botanical recipe that dates back to the 1870s. The gin is distilled in small batches using a century-old copper pot still, then lightly sweetened with sugar to create its distinctive smooth, rounded flavor profile that bridges the gap between the sweeter genever-style gins and the drier London Dry style.
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View RecipesIf you've had the unpleasant experience of a chemical tasting gin, or dislike the crisp, nearly astringent punch of juniper with your first sip of a London dry, I suggest you try Hayman's Old Tom Gin. A bit sweeter than a London dry, old tom fits happily into a Tom Collins, or any other citrus forward cocktail. The botanicals are perfectly balanced, not overpowering. Give it a try. I really do think you'll enjoy it.
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