Old Tom Gin

Old Tom is the oldest style of gin still in production. Most think of Old Tom Gin as the “inbetween” genever and London Dry Gin due to its similarities to both spirits as British distillers learned to make their own unique style of gin.

There are many stories as to how Old Tom Gin got its name: a tomcat fell into a vat of gin or a man named Tom who worked at a distillery once upon a time. More likely, it’s named after wooden plaques shaped like Old Tom black cats outside of British pubs.

If you’re reading older cocktail recipe books, like Jerry Thomas’s “How to mix drinks, or the Bon-Vivant’s Companion”, any reference to gin would point to the use of Old Tom Gin rather than any other style.

The rules and regulations are like the Wild West. There are no rules. In fact, Old Tom Gin as a style, isn’t even recognized by the European Union. You could make and bottle any spirit, with any flavor, and not even resemble gin - call it “Old Tom Gin” and no one could do anything about it.

However, most consider and Old Tom Gin to be distilled gin with added botanicals after and/or during distillation, added sugar, and the possibility of added color and barrel aging. Oh, and of course, you can make it anywhere!

This gin will have similar flavors of a London Dry Gin - juniper, citrus, baking spices, and herbs - but, with the addition of lots of added sugar. In truth, this was done back in the day to cover up poorly made products.

Suggested Brands - Hayman’s & Ransom

Suggested Cocktails - Martinez, Tom Collins, & Gin Rickey