Old Raj Dry Gin (55%)

Introduction: Old Raj 55% carries a deeply personal connection for me. It was introduced to me by my late best friend, Rakesh, and he was the one who insisted I try the 110-proof version specifically. Ever since then, every time I see or pour Old Raj, I think of him. Beyond the sentiment, Old Raj is unusual because it isn’t fully clear — it has a faint golden tint from saffron added after distillation. That saffron influences both appearance and flavor, and it’s one of the things that sets Old Raj apart. This bottle has history, personality, and presence, and revisiting it feels long overdue. Nose: The nose on Old Raj is classic gin turned up a notch, stronger but not abrasive. There is bright, slightly bitter citrus peel that leans toward grapefruit, followed by warm spice notes including cinnamon, clove, and coriander seed. Juniper makes a firm appearance, and the higher proof gives everything a more aromatic lift without being sharp. It smells traditional but bold — a classic London dry profile with more intensity. Taste: The palate is strong but surprisingly controlled for 55% ABV. The saffron contributes a floral, lightly sweet, slightly spicy character right at the front. That moves quickly into sharper citrus, again resembling grapefruit peel with both brightness and a faint bitterness. Coriander seed adds earthiness, and the juniper runs steadily throughout without overpowering anything. The taste is bold, floral, spicy, and pleasantly bitter, with more structure and weight than most gins. Finish: The finish shifts much drier and spicier. There is tongue-tingling cinnamon, a touch of black tea tannin, and even a faint hint of leather. The higher proof keeps the finish long and warm, but it stays clean even as the flavors narrow into a more one-dimensional spicy dryness. Conclusion: Old Raj 110 is one of the higher-proof gins on the market, and at 55% ABV, it brings impressive intensity without ever becoming harsh. It is absolutely sippable neat, but the bold flavor and structure also makes it excellent for cocktails. Old Raj 110 is a premium gin, but if you’re used to collecting or exploring higher-end bottles, the price is justified. It’s versatile, memorable, and worth keeping in regular rotation.

Juniper, spicy, saffron and a little hot.

One of my fav Gins of all time. Very hot and major Saffron note. Quite citrusy as well. If you find a bottle buy it

As far as classic gins go, this is my new favorite. Absolutely fantastic in a Negroni.

Very good gin and tonic. Top notch gin

Juniper and citrus on the nose, lightly floral with spices in the background. Citrus, juniper, and a little ethanol in the mouth. Floral quality follows with spices like coriander and peppercorn coming on in a long full finish. Full oily mouthfeel, hint of straw color in the bottle. At this 55 ABV it serves well in classic cocktails, but the citrus and underlying floral make it worthy of drinking by itself.

Strong orange peel smell and flavor, moderate juniper, moderate spice, plenty of ethanol on the nose but that’s to be expected at 55%. All in all, it’s a damn good gin if you don’t want a dominating juniper/sage/pine flavor and want something closer to a flavored vodka.