Tarquin's has built a reputation for producing spirits that feel genuinely connected to the British landscape, and their Brilliant British Blackberry Gin is a lovely expression of that philosophy. This is a London Dry at its foundation, which tells us something important about how it's made — the blackberry character has to be introduced during distillation rather than added afterwards as flavouring. That's a meaningful distinction, because it means the fruit works in harmony with the juniper and supporting botanicals rather than simply masking them.
Style & Character
At 38% ABV, this sits at the lower end of the spectrum for a London Dry, which I find works rather well for fruit-forward gins. A gentler proof allows those delicate berry notes room to breathe without being overwhelmed by alcoholic heat. You're getting a gin that should balance the natural sweetness and tartness of blackberry against that essential juniper backbone — the hallmark of any well-constructed London Dry.
Best Served
I'd reach for this in a Bramble without hesitation — it feels almost purpose-built for Dick Bradsell's modern classic. Build it over crushed ice with fresh lemon juice and a touch of sugar syrup, then lace crème de mûre over the top. The blackberry in the gin will echo the liqueur beautifully, creating layers of berry complexity rather than a single flat note. For something longer, a simple G&T with a premium Indian tonic, a wedge of lemon, and a few fresh blackberries as garnish would let the gin do all the talking. At £37.25, it's a solid proposition — a well-made British gin with genuine character and real cocktail versatility.
