Langley’s Distillery, the distillers behind such hits as Martin Miller’s, Brokers, and Hammer & Son Old Tom Gin, have made Palmer’s Gin on their own account for a number of years, although it has been less well-known than some of these other products. The gin is named after the Palmer Group, the owners of Langley Distillery.
2016 sees a relaunch of Palmer’s Gin with a new bottle and an increase in ABV from 40%-44% ABV. It is made using a combination of ten botanicals.
On its own
Nose: Chocolate and lemon, with a touch of earthy pine.
Taste: This is a classic gin with an engaging flavour profile; there is a good interplay between notes of citrus and chocolate, the former being of lemon and orange, making it almost reminiscent of a jaffa cake. After this, dry, more resinous botanicals come through, with a pleasant oiliness and a touch of black pepper.
Gin & Tonic
Excellent – so light and refreshing. Lots of crisp citrus and juniper notes followed by a clean, lightly bitter finish. Delicious.
Martini
A clean crispness makes this another refreshing and light cocktail, but with plenty of character. This would be a great choice for a pre-dinner drink, particularly when dining al fresco.
Negroni
Lively and jammy, with delightful hints of full shred marmalade. The finish is clean, with notes of dry, crisp juniper from the gin and the bitter Campari. Superb!
In Conclusion
Palmer’s Gin is a well-balanced spirit that is a delight to drink. Very classic, but the chocolate-citrus flair sets it apart. My favourite drink was the Martini.