Old Tom Gin

Old Tom Gin is one of the oldest gin styles, serving as a bridge between the dry London Dry Gins and the sweeter Flavoured Gins. It’s known for its gentle sweetness, rounded texture, and balanced juniper aroma, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer softer, more harmonious flavours.

History of Old Tom Gin

The origins of Old Tom Gin date back to the 18th century, when gin experienced a major boom in London. Early distillation technology couldn’t yet produce clean alcohol – the resulting spirit was rough and often barely drinkable. To soften it, producers began adding sugar or honey, creating a style that quickly spread across Britain.

The name Old Tom is surrounded by legends. One tells of London taverns where gin was sold anonymously through a cat-shaped wall dispenser. Customers dropped coins into the cat’s mouth and received a shot of gin through its paw – giving rise to the name “Old Tom.” Another story mentions a distiller named Tom who created the first sweet-style gin. Whatever the truth, the cat symbol remains a hallmark of Old Tom bottles today.

Taste, style, and use

Unlike modern London Dry Gins, Old Tom has a subtly sweet profile with a warmer, softer mouthfeel. Some versions are briefly aged in oak barrels, adding a light amber hue and hints of vanilla, caramel, or spice.

Old Tom Gin is a key ingredient in classic cocktails that defined the golden age of mixology – Tom Collins, Martinez, and Gin Old Fashioned all showcase how beautifully it pairs with citrus, herbs, and tonic. That’s why it’s once again gaining popularity among modern bars and enthusiasts alike.