A Gin Born from the Streets of Glasgow

Glasgow is a city of contrasts, gritty yet elegant, historic yet ever-evolving, rough around the edges yet undeniably charming. It’s a city with a rebellious spirit, a no-nonsense attitude, and a deep love for quality craftsmanship. These very traits are captured in every bottle of Glaswegin, a gin brand that has quickly risen to prominence as a bold representation of its namesake city.

For those unfamiliar, Glaswegin is a multi-award-winning gin distilled in the heart of Glasgow. Designed to reflect the essence of the city, its minimalist aesthetic and high-quality botanical blend make it a standout in a crowded gin market. But Glaswegin is more than just another premium spirit, it’s a tribute to the city’s people, culture, and fearless innovation.

In this Rebel Spotlight, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of Glaswegin, explore its unique botanical profile, highlight four standout products available at Robert Graham 1874, and give you the inside scoop on what’s next for this rising star in the world of gin.

The History of Glaswegin: A Tribute to a City

Glaswegin was founded with a clear mission: to create a gin that embodies Glasgow’s character in both taste and presentation. While many gins lean into traditional Scottish heritage by focusing on rural distillation methods or historical recipes, Glaswegin took a different route. It chose to embrace the city’s urban energy, modern design, and contemporary approach to gin-making.

The brand’s founder, who remains somewhat enigmatic, wanted to strip away the pretension often associated with premium spirits. Instead of elaborate branding and storytelling, Glaswegin opted for a sleek, monochromatic bottle that speaks for itself. This design reflects Glasgow’s straightforward attitude, what you see is what you get, and what you get is exceptional.

From its launch, Glaswegin has resonated with gin lovers who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and a bit of rebellious flair. It quickly garnered industry recognition, winning multiple awards, including Scotland’s Best London Dry Gin at the World Gin Awards 2021. This accolade cemented its status as a must-try for gin aficionados.

The Botanical Profile: A Symphony of Eight Key Ingredients

Glaswegin stands out not only because of its branding but also due to its carefully curated selection of botanicals. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating its signature smooth, crisp, and slightly floral flavour profile. The eight botanicals that form the backbone of Glaswegin include:

1. **Juniper** – The foundation of any great gin, providing a piney, resinous quality.

2. **Coriander** – Adds a touch of spice and citrus.

3. **Angelica Root** – Contributes to the gin’s earthy depth and helps bind the flavors.

4. **Orris Root** – Known for its floral and violet-like aroma.

5. **Orange Flower** – Brings a delicate citrusy sweetness.

6. **Milk Thistle** – A unique addition that nods to Scotland’s national flower.

7. **Pink Peppercorns** – Introduces a subtle spicy kick.

8. **Chamomile** – Rounds out the profile with soft, floral notes.

This combination results in a gin that is perfectly balanced, bold enough to stand out in cocktails yet smooth enough to enjoy neat over ice.

The Glaswegin Range at Robert Graham 1874

At Robert Graham 1874, we take pride in offering some of the finest spirits in the world, and Glaswegin is no exception. Here are four must-try expressions currently available in our stores:

Glaswegin Weegie Strength Gin

For those who like their gin with a bit more punch, the Weegie Strength Gin is an overproof version sitting at 55.8% ABV. It takes everything that makes the Original great and amplifies it, resulting in an intense and flavourful  experience.

Tasting Notes:

- Nose: Robust juniper and orange zest with a touch of spice.

- Palate: Bolder botanical presence, warming spice, and a pronounced citrus hit.

- Finish: Lingering heat with a smooth floral fade.

Glaswegin Rioja Cask Finish Gin

One of the more innovative expressions from the brand, this gin is aged in ex-Rioja wine casks, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity. The aging process enhances the gin’s floral and spice notes while imparting a slight sweetness from the wine-soaked wood.

Tasting Notes:

- Nose: Aromatic spice, red fruit, and a hint of vanilla.

- Palate: Velvety smooth with notes of ripe berries, wood spice, and a delicate smokiness.

- Finish: Rounded and subtly sweet with lingering warmth.

And many others 

What’s Next for Glaswegin?

Glaswegin has already made waves in the gin industry, but the journey is far from over. The brand continues to experiment with new flavours, cask finishes, and collaborations, ensuring that fans always have something exciting to look forward to.

Recent rumors suggest that Glaswegin is working on a smoked cask-aged gin, which would introduce even deeper, woodier flavours into their already impressive lineup. Additionally, limited-edition seasonal releases and potential collaborations with Glasgow-based artists and mixologists are said to be in the works.

For those eager to stay ahead of the curve, keep an eye on Robert Graham 1874’s website and stores for the latest updates on Glaswegin’s newest creations.

A Toast to Glaswegin: The True Spirit of Glasgow

Glaswegin isn’t just a gin, it’s a statement. It embodies the resilience, creativity, and rebellious nature of Glasgow while delivering an exceptional drinking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just starting your journey, Glaswegin deserves a place on your shelf.

At Robert Graham 1874, we’re proud to support and showcase this remarkable brand, bringing its unique expressions to those who appreciate craftsmanship and authenticity.

So, raise a glass to Glasgow’s finest. Slàinte!