Copper Pot 57 Navy Strength Gin comes from St Leonards-on-Sea, near Hastings in Sussex. Its 57% ABV gives the juniper and spices room to remain clear when mixed. The producer lists juniper, cardamom, coriander, orris root, cassia, grains of paradise and citrus among its botanicals. The label carries the phrase Shot Across the Bows, a nautical cue that fits the Navy Strength category without changing the product's name. This is a firmer, higher-proof gin from the same house, sold in several bottle sizes. Its strength is not merely a number: the spice and juniper remain prominent after tonic is added, provided the drink is mixed with some care.

Juniper gives the dry starting point. Coriander and cardamom bring citrus-like warmth, while cassia adds a deeper, softer spice. Grains of paradise lend a peppery lift, and orris root sits quietly behind these more immediately recognisable aromas. A fresh citrus note runs through the middle of the palate and keeps the warmer spices lively. A small neat taste is powerful and dry, with the individual spices clearer after slight dilution. The finish holds its shape longer than that of a lighter gin, which is the practical value of the 57% bottling strength in a mixed drink.

The distillery's own Perfect Serve uses 25 ml of gin, 150 ml of Fever-Tree Mediterranean tonic, rosemary and an orange slice. Start there rather than automatically pouring a double measure of a navy gin. Put the orange and a short rosemary sprig among large ice cubes, and set an extra slice and sprig beside the glass. The orange adds a clean fruit scent against the cassia and cardamom; the rosemary introduces a herbal note that works with the juniper. Tonic softens the initial heat without erasing the spices. Alternatively, the producer suggests trying the measure simply over ice. Either way, a little time and dilution help the botanicals become clearer than they are in the first, strongest sip.