Menu
Image for blog - The Story of the World’s Most Awarded Gin Crafted from the Real Downton Abbey Image for blog - The Story of the World’s Most Awarded Gin Crafted from the Real Downton Abbey
Features // Blog

The Story of the World’s Most Awarded Gin Crafted from the Real Downton Abbey

Publisher - Great British Food Awards
published by

The Great British Food team

Dec 04, 2023
5 minutes to read

Partner content: Find out all about the history behind Highclere Castle Gin…

Step into the refined world of Highclere Castle Gin, a masterfully crafted spirit that marries the best of British country tradition and botanical excellence. The royal purple bottle bearing an image of a castle that should be familiar to fans of the award-winning TV series Downton Abbey. This London dry gin is the result of a partnership between American spirits entrepreneur, Adam von Gootkin and the Earl & Countess of Carnarvon, the distinguished residents of the famous 5,000-acre estate of Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England.

The gin is distilled in England’s oldest gin distillery. It was released to celebrate Highclere’s reputation for entertaining to the highest standards.

Today, Highclere plays host to many of the world’s most famous royals, celebrities, scientists, and artists where evenings have begun with gin cocktails dating back to the 1920’s. Highclere Castle Gin stands as a beacon of excellence in the spirits realm, recognised by us at the Great British Food Awards as one of Britain’s best. The accolade is a testament to Highclere’s commitment to agriculture and to honour its uniquely British heritage.

Indeed, Highclere Castle Gin is an homage to its history in every way. Produced with botanicals taken from the ancient estate, including herbs, citrus, and thousand-year-old lavender beds from the gardens, Highclere’s flavour profile is velvety smooth and citrusy with notes of lavender, coriander, and cardamom. It’s easy to see why the gin has garnered over 150 international awards and is now recognised as the most-awarded premium gin in the world. Any way you sip it, this spirit will transport you to a place where time stands still and quality is never spared at an affordable luxury price of around £34, ABV 43.5%.

Available at exclusive locations throughout London and, of course, at the historic Highclere Castle itself.

It is a true experience to taste this historic gin. Enjoy it simply with a mixer or try this delicious cocktail:

Cranberry Coupe

60 ml Highclere Castle Gin
40 ml Cranberry Juice
25 ml Raspberry Liqueur
25 ml Fresh Lime Juice
Fresh lime zest

Combine all the ingredients (except lime zest) in a cocktail shaker. Shake with plenty of ice. Strain into chilled glass. Express fresh lime zest over the drink. Enjoy!

Highclere Castle Gin is available online through Highclere Castle, Amazon, and Waitrose Cellar.

Find out more at highclerecastlegin.com

More features for you
you might also be interested in
stay connected
Download your FREE Guide
40 British Producers You Need to Know