Hendricks Gin
Where it Comes From
Scotland is home to Hendricks, a gin birthed from the unique blend of innovation and tradition. William Grant & Sons, the creators, introduced this gin to the world in the 1990s, setting a new benchmark in the gin industry.
Distillation Process
The Hendricks’ magic lies in its dual distillation process involving two antique stills: the Bennet and the Carter-Head still. This procedure allows for a vibrant yet complex blend of 11 botanicals, including a final flourish of Bulgarian Rosa Damascena and cucumber.
Unique Selling Points
What sets Hendricks apart is not just its charming infusion of cucumber and rose but also its apothecary-style bottle that whisks you back to the Victorian era of gin production. The complex yet balanced botanical symphony offers a versatile option for both gin beginners and veterans.
Bombay Sapphire
Origin
On the other side of the spectrum is Bombay Sapphire, a name synonymous with premium gin since the 1980s. The recipe, however, has deeper roots, stemming from a recipe back in 1761, bringing a sense of historical richness to every bottle.
Distillation Process
Bombay Sapphire undergoes a vapor infusion process, a method that enables a delicate extraction of the botanical flavors from its 10 exotic ingredients sourced globally. This gives it a harmonious yet complex flavor profile, a feat achieved by only the most skillful artisans.
Unique Selling Points
Bombay Sapphire can pride itself on its sustainable production process, being produced at one of the few distilleries with a carbon-neutral certification. The tantalizing balanced flavor and the recognizable light blue bottle make it a beloved choice for many gin enthusiasts worldwide.
The Versatility, Flavor, and Presentations of Both Gins,
Flavor Profile
Starting with Hendricks, one would notice a refreshing wave of floral and botanical notes with an unmistakable presence of cucumber and rose petals. Its medium-bodied flavor profile makes it a gin with subtlety and elegance, offering a refreshing alternative to more juniper-heavy gins.
Bombay, on the other hand, has a brighter citrus note at the forefront, followed by a harmonious ballet of spices, almond, and juniper berries dancing on your palate. It offers a more classic gin experience with a modern, crisp twist, appealing to those who prefer a balanced yet complex gin.
Their Presentation and Packaging
Hendricks indeed stands out in the crowd with its dark, apothecary-style bottle, evoking a vintage charm. The label carries whimsical illustrations, inviting drinkers into a fantastical world of flavors and mystery. In contrast, Bombay Sapphire opts for a modern, sleek approach with its light blue, translucent bottle, allowing the purity of the spirit to shine through. The design is contemporary, yet with a nod to tradition through its depiction of the Queen Victoria image, a symbolic gesture to its historic roots.
What Will These Gins Cost You?
It’s time to shed light on the detailed pricing and size variations for the array of gins offered by Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick’s, offering a clear picture of what you can expect to invest when purchasing either of these premium gins.
| Brand | Variety | Proof/ABV | Size | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bombay Sapphire | Sapphire Gin | 94 Proof | 750 ml | 23.99 |
| Dry Gin | 86 Proof | 750 ml | 19.99 | |
| Sapphire East | 84 Proof | 750 ml | 23.99 | |
| Bramble | 86 Proof | 750 ml | 23.99 | |
| Sapphire Gin & Tonic (RTD) | 5.9% ABV | 4 Pack 250 ml cans | 13.99 |
Moving forward, let’s take a closer look at the variations in Hendrick’s gin line-up, taking into account the proof, size, and pricing to give a comprehensive view of what’s on offer.
| Brand | Variety | Proof | Size | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hendrick’s | Original | 88 Proof | 750 ml | 38.99 |
| Neptunia | 86.8 Proof | 750 ml | 42.99 | |
| Lunar | 86.8 Proof | 750 ml | 42.99 | |
| Midsummer Solstice | 86.8 Proof | 750 ml | 40.99 | |
| Orbium | 86.8 Proof | 750 ml | 43.99 |
Hendricks falls into the premium category, with a price tag reflecting its unique distillation process and the quality of ingredients used. It is a choice for those willing to invest in a gin that promises a rich and multi-layered tasting experience. Whereas, Bombay Sapphire, while still retaining a premium status, is slightly more affordable than Hendricks, making it accessible to a broader audience. It offers a premium experience without putting too much strain on your wallet, representing great value for money.
Consumer Perception On Hendricks and Bombay: Whose Better?
Hendricks has a fan following who swear by its innovative and unique flavor profile, garnering accolades and appreciation in the gin market. Its unapologetic divergence from the traditional gin path has earned it a solid place in the hearts of those seeking something different in their gin experience.
Bombay Sapphire holds a special place in the community, with a rich history dating back centuries. Its consistent quality and delightful flavor profile have earned it numerous awards, stamping its authority as a gin that carries both tradition and innovation in its DNA.
Can They Mix into Cocktails
When it comes to creating cocktails, Hendricks shows impressive versatility. Its nuanced flavor profile with a rose and cucumber finish blends seamlessly in cocktails, elevating the simplest of drinks to a gourmet experience. Be it a classic gin and tonic or a more complex concoction, Hendricks marries well with a variety of ingredients.
Bombay Sapphire plays the central role in many classic cocktails. Its rich and multifaceted flavor profile translates into a cocktail glass, adding depth and complexity to each sip. Its balance of spices and citrus notes make it a suitable candidate for a range of cocktails, from a refreshing Tom Collins to a spicy Negroni.
There are two classic concoctions that stand as quintessential representatives of these gins: the Raspberry & Mint Twist and the Salty Dog.
How Can You Enjoy These Two Gins
Gin is hardly the first liquor that people think of when they want to down a shot. Gins like Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick’s are not ordinary. They’re both top-notch and effective on their own. They also both have distinctive botanical flavors that shine in a Gin and tonic or many other cocktails. Here are some of our favorites for each Gin:
Raspberry & Mint Twist
A vibrant cocktail that brings a burst of freshness to your palate, perfectly illustrating the versatility of Hendricks gin with its floral and cucumber notes.
Ingredients:
- Hendricks Gin: 50 ml
- Fresh raspberries: 6-8 pieces
- Fresh mint leaves: 5-6
- Lime juice: 15 ml
- Tonic water: to top up
- Ice cubes
Method:
- Start by adding fresh raspberries and mint leaves into the shaker. Use a muddler to gently press the raspberries and mint to release their juices and oils.
- Add Hendricks Gin and lime juice to the mix, followed by a scoop of ice cubes.
- Shake well until the mixture is well chilled, usually for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Top up with tonic water, and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a raspberry on top for that perfect finishing touch.
Savor the refreshing, berry-forward cocktail with a botanical undertone from the Hendricks gin, complemented by the freshness of mint — a true palate pleaser.
Salty Dog
A classic cocktail that embraces the balanced yet complex flavor profile of Bombay Sapphire, offering a rich and multi-faceted experience with a hint of saltiness that packs a punch.
Ingredients:
- Bombay Sapphire Gin: 50 ml
- Grapefruit juice: 90 ml
- Salt: for rimming
- Grapefruit slice: for garnish
- Ice cubes
Method:
- Begin by chilling your glass in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes.
- Take the glass out and rim the edge with a slice of grapefruit, following which you dip the rim in a plate of salt to get a nice salty rim.
- In a shaker, add Bombay Sapphire gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is nicely chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass, ensuring not disturb the salt rim.
- Garnish with a slice of grapefruit on the rim for a picturesque presentation.
So, How Similar Are These Gins?
You’ll notice both brands have truly honed their craft, exhibiting a deep reverence for the art of distillation. Their gin varieties showcase a complex assembly of finely chosen botanicals that bring to your palate a dance of nuanced flavors, allowing for a depth of experience in each sip.
Both their versatility in mixability are truly commendable. Be it in a simple gin and tonic or a more elaborate cocktail, the gins lend themselves beautifully, merging with other ingredients to gift you with a beverage that is more than the sum of its parts. Your cocktail creations can thus reach new heights, leaving a lasting impression on both you and your guests.
The effort put into both these gins’ packaging is second to none. While they adopt different approaches, each with its own set of merits, they converge on a path of excellence, offering you visually pleasing and iconic bottles that add a touch of elegance to your collection. The intricacies of the packaging design invite you to appreciate the gin even before you have opened the bottle, setting a high standard for the liquid it houses.
So, which gin is better for you? Regardless of your budget preferences, both Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick’s provide a range of pricing options to cater to various consumer segments. Whether you are leaning towards a more affordable choice or willing to indulge in a premium option, you will find a product that suits your financial comfort in their lineup. This consideration ensures that you can enjoy the finest gin experiences without feeling the pinch in your pocket.
We will leave you here with a clear perception of two brands, offering gin that is both a delight to your palate and a feast for your eyes while allowing space for your individual preferences to flourish.