Hendrick's Gin

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Hendrick’s Gin is a Scottish gin launched in 1999 at the Girvan distillery. It was created for William Grant & Sons by Lesley Gracie, who aimed to make a super-premium gin. The flavor blends traditional juniper with cucumber and Bulgarian rose, giving it a distinctive aroma and taste.

The gin is made from two different stills that were restored: a small Bennett copper pot still and a Carter-Head still. The Bennett still tends to produce a bold, juniper-heavy spirit, while the Carter-Head creates lighter, floral notes. The final Hendrick’s is a blend of these two spirits plus cucumber and rose essences.

Usually about 44% ABV (varies by market), Hendrick’s is bottled in a dark brown apothecary-style bottle. It’s commonly served with tonic and ice, garnished with cucumber. Master Distiller Lesley Gracie also suggests mixing with soda water and elderflower cordial.

Awards have included being named the Wall Street Journal’s Best Gin in the World in 2003, plus medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2005–2012) and high scores from the Beverage Testing Institute (93–95, 2007–2011).