We’re extremely excited to announce the launch of our NEW Slingsby Navy Strength Gin! Stronger and richer with an ABV of 57%, this Gin has great body and intensity whilst still retaining our classically smooth finish.
During the 18th century, the Royal Navy would carry Gin at 57% ABV on board. Whilst being stored below deck near the gunpowder, it was discovered that the powder would still light even if it was wet with this strength of Gin! The quartermasters could easily test it with the gunpowder to make sure that it hadn’t been adulterated, hence the term “100 degrees proof”.
Officers were given a daily ration of gin, whereas for the ordinary sailors it was rum. When they mixed the Gin ration with the daily ration of Lime Cordial (Roses) to prevent scurvy, they created the Gimlet. However, when they mixed this with their daily ration of ground cinchona bark, sugar, local spices, Lime Cordial and water, the world famous G&T was inadvertently born!