Four gins were finalists for World’s Best Gin at the New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC) 2024. Tanqueray, one of the world’s most iconic gin brands, known for its classic London Dry style, was selected as the best gin in the world. Reflecting the global scale of the gin trade, finalists came from as far afield as Argentina, Peru, Ireland and Britain. Below is a brief overview of the finalists and tasting notes for their gins.

Tanqueray No. 10, London Dry Gin, 47.3% ABV, 750 ml.

Charles Tanqueray founded the Tanqueray brand in 1830 in Bloomsbury, London. A visionary distiller, Tanqueray has dedicated himself to creating gin of exceptional quality by blending innovative techniques with carefully selected botanicals. Tanqueray has become famous for its clean, crisp flavor profile and consistent quality.

The original London distillery was badly damaged during World War II. Subsequently, production was transferred to Scotland. Today, Tanqueray, owned by drinks giant Diageo, remains one of the world’s leading gin brands; immediately recognizable by its green bottle and its red wax seal.

Tanqueray n°10an expression of premium gin, was introduced in 2000. It owes its name to the still in which it is produced: “Tiny Ten”, a small 500 liter pot used to create this unique gin. Unlike the classic Tanqueray, the No. Ten focuses on fresh, whole citrus and a more delicate botanical blend, making it ideal for cocktails like martinis and gin & tonics.

On the nose, Tanqueray No. Ten is clean and fresh, with dominant citrus notes: grapefruit, lime, orange zest and subtle floral notes. The traditional aroma of juniper is present but less pronounced than in traditional gins, giving more importance to fresh botanicals. There are also subtle herbaceous notes of chamomile that enhance the aromatic sweetness.

The gin is exceptionally smooth on the palate, with nuanced and layered complexity. It features pronounced citrus notes of grapefruit and lime, followed by the resinous flavor of juniper. Subtle nuances of coriander and angelica root add spice and depth, while chamomile flowers add sweetness and creamy texture.

The finish is long, clean and refreshing, with lingering citrus zest and floral and herbaceous notes.

The NYWSC jury described the gin as having:

A vibrant nose with lively citrus aromas, followed by juniper, fresh grapefruit, lime and orange, complemented by delicate floral notes.

Merle, London Dry Gin, 40% ABV, 750 ml.

Gin Merle is an Argentinian brand created in 2020 by four friends in their twenties: Luciano Carmona, Rafael Ferrari Ostry, Ricardo Saracca and Martín Ferro. With an initial investment of $150,000 in June 2019, they set out to create a gin that would appeal to young consumers.

In 2022, Merle inaugurated its second distillery of 30,000 square feet and equipped with three 1,500 liter stills. This expansion has positioned Merle as one of the largest gin distilleries in Argentina and Latin America.

Merle’s flagship product is a London Dry Gin made from a blend of 12 botanicals, including juniper, citrus peel and floral elements. The distillation uses a steam infusion technique, resulting in a gin with a round juniper character, refreshing citrus notes and a complex floral bouquet.

On the nose, the gin presents a harmonious blend of aromas of juniper and fresh citrus fruits, accompanied by subtle floral nuances.

The smooth, creamy palate reveals pronounced juniper flavors balanced by zesty citrus notes and delicate floral notes. The steam infusion technique imparts a crisp, clean profile. The finish is medium with lingering citrus zest and gentle floral sweetness.

Merle London Dry Gin is versatile, suitable for classic cocktails like gin and tonics or martinis and innovative mixes. Its balanced aromatic profile appeals to fans of traditional gin and those looking for a contemporary style.

The NYWSC jury described Merle Gin as exhibiting:

A juniper nose with underlying citrus notes and a dry, peppery finish

Don Michael, Andean Gin, 42% ABV, 750 ml.

Created in 2017 in Lima, Peru, Don Michel is renowned for producing premium spirits combining traditional know-how and local Peruvian ingredients. Initially focused on creating dark whiskey from ancestral Andean black corn, the distillery has expanded its portfolio to include products like Andean Cream, Andean Vodka and, notably, Andean Gin.

Andean Gin is a distinctive spirit that highlights the rich botanical biodiversity of the Andes. Made from a proprietary blend of botanicals, it contains hand-selected juniper, citrus, apple and Andean herbs, resulting in a gin that reflects Peru’s unique terroir.

On the nose, the gin is floral, presenting intense aromas of juniper and lavender, accompanied by citrus notes.

The fresh and fruity palate has notes of juniper, hints of lemon balm and subtle vanilla flavors. The exclusive blend of Andean botanicals lends a unique character, making it ideal for classic cocktails like the Dry Martini, Gin and Tonic or Negroni.

The finish is long and slightly sweet, with lingering notes of citrus and mint.

The NYWSC jury described the gin as having:

Juniper and earthy notes with a slightly spicy profile

Drumshanbo, Gunpowder Irish Gin, 43% ABV, 750 ml.

Drumshanbo is a distinctive gin produced by The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo, County Leitrim, Ireland. Established in 2014 by PJ Rigney, the distillery is renowned for its innovative approach to traditional distillation methods.

The gin’s uniqueness comes from its blend of traditional botanicals and exotic ingredients, including Chinese Gunpowder tea, a green tea that has been slowly dried and rolled into small balls. This combination of plants creates a harmonious fusion of oriental spices and fresh citrus notes.

On the nose, the citrus aromas of grapefruit and lime are complemented by subtle notes of green tea and a hint of juniper.

The gin is smooth and complex on the palate, with flavors of fresh citrus, undertones of green tea and a balanced presence of juniper. The addition of meadowsweet and other botanicals adds a slight sweetness and additional complexity.

The finish is clean, lively and refreshing, with lingering citrus zest and gentle spice notes.

The NYWSC described Drumshanbo gin as having:

Herbal aromas with a distinctive green tea note, balanced by a slight sweetness and a touch of spice.

The four gins shortlisted for the World’s Best Gin award feature different styles with varying degrees of juniper intensity and varying aroma and flavor profiles. All four are excellent and equally versatile for making various gin-based cocktails. No home bar should be without at least one, preferably all four. See the NYWSC website for a complete list of all medalists.