Brokers London Dry Gin

Brokers London Dry Gin is made in London, and the "London Dry" label tells you a lot about what's in the glass. The style is built on juniper, with citrus and spice behind it. It is distilled with all flavor coming from the botanicals, and nothing is added afterward except water. That leaves a dry, clean spirit with no sweetness. A reference description for this bottling points to juniper, citrus and spice. Expect pine-like juniper up front, a bright lemon or orange peel lift, and a peppery or lightly warming finish. Styles like this usually get that last note from coriander seed, angelica root or similar roots and seeds. The product details don't list an exact botanical recipe or ABV, so check the label for the strength. That structure suits drinks where gin needs to stay recognizable. In a Gin & Tonic, a juniper-forward London Dry holds its shape against the quinine bitterness and carbonation instead of getting buried. Use a ratio of about one part gin to two or three parts tonic. Build it in a balloon glass or a tall highball packed with large, cold ice. Large cubes melt slowly and keep the drink from going watery. Add a wedge or wide peel of lemon or grapefruit, or try a sprig of rosemary or thyme if you prefer an herbal angle. Pour the tonic gently down the side of the glass to preserve the fizz. The same character carries into stirred drinks. A Negroni (equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari) needs a gin with enough juniper and spice to stand up to the bitter orange liqueur, and a classic London Dry fits well. Stir it over ice until it is well chilled, then serve over a large cube with an orange peel. In a Martini, a typical ratio is about five parts gin to one part dry vermouth. Stir it hard with ice, strain it into a chilled coupe or Martini glass, and garnish with a lemon twist or an olive depending on how much brine and oil you want. For something longer and brighter, a Tom Collins works well here. Shake the gin with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup, strain over ice into a tall glass, and top with soda water. The citrus in the gin reinforces the lemon, while the juniper keeps the drink from tasting like plain lemonade. Keep the bottle in a cool place, and chill it in the freezer if you mainly make Martinis. The high-proof spirit will not freeze solid at household freezer temperatures.