Buy Old Tom Gin Online at Barrel & Batch

Old Tom Gin is a classic style of gin that dates back to the 18th century and is considered a sweeter and more rounded version of London Dry Gin. Known for its slightly sweeter profile, Old Tom Gin was originally created as a response to the harsher, more bitter gins of its time. The name 'Old Tom' is believed to come from the wooden plaques shaped like a black cat (often called 'Old Tom') that would hang outside gin houses, where customers could place money and receive a secret serving of gin.

At Barrel & Batch, we offer a selection of premium Old Tom Gins that revive this historic style while bringing modern twists. Whether you’re looking to craft classic cocktails or enjoy a smoother gin experience, our collection offers something for every gin enthusiast. Shop online and enjoy delivery across Australia.

What is Old Tom Gin?

Old Tom Gin is characterised by its slightly sweeter profile, which sets it apart from the drier styles of gin like London Dry. The sweetness traditionally came from added sugar or botanicals that impart a richer, fuller flavour. This gin was a staple during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially during the Gin Craze in England. It eventually fell out of favour but has seen a resurgence in recent years due to the craft gin movement.

Old Tom Gin is often described as a bridge between the robust, juniper-forward flavour of London Dry Gin and the sweeter, more aromatic Genever, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of both worlds. It is versatile and works well in both classic cocktails and modern gin concoctions.

Characteristics of Old Tom Gin

• Botanicals: Like most gins, Old Tom features juniper, but it also includes a variety of botanicals that give it a richer, more rounded flavour. Some versions add sweetness through botanicals, while others may use a touch of sugar.
• Aroma: Old Tom Gins often have a fragrant aroma, with hints of citrus, floral, and sweet spice notes that complement the classic juniper scent.
• Flavour: Known for its smooth and slightly sweeter profile, Old Tom Gin has a well-rounded flavour, often featuring hints of citrus, spices, and subtle sweetness, without the sharp dryness of London Dry Gin.
• Mouthfeel: Old Tom Gin tends to have a fuller, richer mouthfeel, making it a perfect option for both sipping neat or mixing into cocktails.

Types of Old Tom Gin

• Classic Old Tom Gin: These gins are made following traditional methods, delivering a sweeter and smoother flavour profile reminiscent of 18th-century gins.
• Modern Old Tom Gin: Contemporary distillers have revived Old Tom Gin with a modern twist, often experimenting with new botanicals and subtle infusions of flavour while maintaining the characteristic sweetness.
• Aged Old Tom Gin: Some distilleries produce aged versions of Old Tom Gin, which are matured in barrels, adding complexity and depth to the flavour profile.

Our Old Tom Gin Selection

At Barrel & Batch, we offer a curated selection of Old Tom Gins, including both traditional styles and modern interpretations. Here are some standout Old Tom Gin options from our collection:

• Berto Old Tom Gin by Antica Distilleria Quaglia 700ml: A classic Old Tom Gin with a perfect balance of sweetness and juniper, ideal for creating classic cocktails such as the Tom Collins.
• Jensen's Old Tom Gin 700ml: A traditional, slightly sweetened gin that revives an 1840s recipe, offering bold botanical flavours with a smooth finish, perfect for gin connoisseurs.

Food Pairings with Old Tom Gin

The subtle sweetness and complex flavours of Old Tom Gin make it an excellent match for a variety of foods. Here are some recommended pairings:

• Seafood: Old Tom Gin’s sweet, smooth profile pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, oysters, or crab cakes.
• Citrus-Based Desserts: The sweetness in Old Tom Gin complements citrus desserts like lemon tart, key lime pie, or orange sorbet.
• Roast Chicken or Duck: The rich flavour of roast chicken or duck is enhanced by the smooth, slightly sweet notes of Old Tom Gin, especially when paired with a citrus glaze.
• Soft Cheeses: The delicate sweetness of Old Tom Gin pairs well with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert, balancing the richness with its smooth flavour.
• Herb-Crusted Lamb: The herbal and spicy notes in Old Tom Gin make it a great match for herb-crusted lamb, adding depth to the dish.

Classic Cocktails with Old Tom Gin

Old Tom Gin is a versatile ingredient in cocktails, especially for classic gin recipes that benefit from its slightly sweeter profile. Here are a few iconic cocktails to try:

• Tom Collins: A refreshing mix of Old Tom Gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water. The sweetness of Old Tom complements the citrus for a perfect summer drink.
• Martinez: A classic cocktail that combines Old Tom Gin with sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters, delivering a smooth and complex flavour.
• Gin Fizz: A classic gin cocktail made with Old Tom Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, offering a light and fizzy experience.
• The Casino: A mix of Old Tom Gin, maraschino liqueur, orange bitters, and fresh lemon juice, offering a balanced and slightly sweeter twist on traditional gin cocktails.

The History and Revival of Old Tom Gin

Old Tom Gin has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, when gin was often crudely made and consumed in large quantities during England’s infamous Gin Craze. The slightly sweeter style of Old Tom Gin emerged as a way to mask the harsh flavours of early gins, making it more palatable for the average drinker. It quickly became popular in gin houses, with the "Old Tom" cat symbols marking places where gin could be bought in secret.

By the 19th century, Old Tom Gin was the gin of choice for many classic cocktails, including the Tom Collins and the Martinez. However, with the rise of drier gins like London Dry, Old Tom Gin began to fade into obscurity. In recent years, the resurgence of interest in craft spirits and classic cocktail culture has led to the revival of this historic gin style. Modern distillers are now reintroducing Old Tom Gin with a contemporary twist, allowing a new generation of gin lovers to rediscover its balanced sweetness and versatility.

Today, Old Tom Gin is celebrated for its unique place in gin history, offering a distinctive flavour that bridges the gap between the more intense Genever and the crisp, dry London Dry Gin. Its comeback in cocktail bars and among gin enthusiasts marks a renewed appreciation for this once-forgotten style.

Why Choose Old Tom Gin?

Old Tom Gin offers a unique gin experience that is both historic and versatile, appealing to gin enthusiasts who appreciate a touch of sweetness in their drinks. Here’s why Old Tom Gin stands out:

• Classic Meets Contemporary: Old Tom Gin is a historic gin style that bridges the gap between dry gin and sweeter spirits, making it a great choice for those who enjoy both tradition and innovation.
• Perfect for Cocktails: Its slight sweetness makes Old Tom Gin a perfect base for classic gin cocktails like the Tom Collins and Martinez, offering a balanced and smooth drinking experience.
• Approachable Flavour Profile: Old Tom Gin is less dry than London Dry Gin, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smoother, slightly sweeter gin with rich botanicals.
• Versatility: Whether you prefer your gin neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Old Tom Gin is a versatile option that works well in a variety of settings.

Shop Old Tom Gin Online at Barrel & Batch

Discover our range of premium Old Tom Gins at Barrel & Batch, featuring both classic and contemporary expressions. Whether you're looking to craft the perfect cocktail or simply enjoy a smoother gin, our collection offers something for every palate.

Order online today and enjoy fast delivery across Australia, bringing the best of Old Tom Gin straight to your door.