Orkney Rhubarb Old Tom Gin

Orkney Rhubarb Old Tom Gin is produced by the Orkney Gin Company on the island of Burray in Scotland. It follows the traditional Old Tom style, a historical gin category dating back to the 18th century in which the spirit is lightly sweetened to give a softer finish than a London Dry gin while remaining drier than liqueur-like styles. The recipe builds on the long standing use of rhubarb in Orcadian cooking, where the ingredient has featured in local recipes passed down through generations.

The gin is made by combining a classic juniper led botanical base with large quantities of chopped Scottish rhubarb. The botanical line up includes juniper berries, cinnamon, rose petals and Seville orange peel, which are infused together with the rhubarb to create a full strength gin at 43% ABV that retains a natural fruit character rather than the heavier sweetness of a liqueur. The spirit is lightly sweetened in keeping with the Old Tom tradition, with the aim of rounding the edges of the rhubarb rather than masking its tartness.

On the nose, Orkney Rhubarb Old Tom shows clear rhubarb and rose notes with a gentle juniper heat in the background. Seville orange peel adds a subtle bitter citrus accent that keeps the aromatics lifted. On the palate, the flavour profile is zesty and fruit driven, with more emphasis on rhubarb zest and freshness than on sugar. Cinnamon contributes a measured spicy warmth and the rose component delivers a floral thread that runs alongside the fruit.

The finish sees the rhubarb character continue, joined by delicately balanced rose and a smooth juniper warmth. The overall impression is of a lightly sweetened, fruity and floral Old Tom that keeps enough structure and spice to work in mixed drinks. The gin can be served with tonic or ginger beer, often with fresh berries or citrus as a garnish, and is well suited to cocktails that benefit from a rhubarb accent without the intensity of a liqueur style. Orkney Rhubarb Old Tom Gin has also attracted attention on the competition circuit, with recognition at events such as the Great British Food Awards and the World Gin Awards.