Edinburgh Rhubarb & Ginger Gin is one of those bottles that caught my eye long before I got around to opening it. The flavoured gin category can be a minefield — too many brands lean on sweetness and artificial notes to mask mediocre spirit. Edinburgh, though, has built a reputation for doing things with a bit more care, and this expression sits comfortably in that tradition.
Style & Character
At 40% ABV, this sits at the standard strength for a flavoured gin, which I appreciate. Too many in this category drop to 37.5% and lose backbone in the process. The rhubarb and ginger combination is a smart pairing — rhubarb brings a tart, almost vegetal sweetness while ginger adds warmth and a peppery edge. It's a balance that, when done well, keeps the gin from tipping into dessert territory.
What interests me about this style is how it bridges seasons. The ginger gives it enough spice for an autumn evening, but the rhubarb lightness makes it perfectly drinkable through spring and summer. It's versatile in a way that single-note flavoured gins rarely manage.
Verdict
I'm giving this a 7.5 out of 10. It does exactly what a flavoured gin should — delivers a clear, recognisable character without abandoning the juniper-led spirit underneath. It won't convert the purists, but it's not trying to. For anyone who enjoys a gin with personality and a point of difference, this is a reliable choice at a fair price point of £27.25.
Best served in a long glass over ice with premium ginger ale, a stick of fresh lemongrass, and a few slices of pink rhubarb. If you're feeling adventurous, try it in a twist on a Tokyo Mule — swap the vodka for this gin, add fresh ginger juice and a splash of yuzu. The rhubarb plays beautifully against those citrus notes.
