First Impressions
Batch Distillery's Industrial Strength Gin weighs in at a formidable 55% ABV. Next Generation takes that same complex, individual recipe and brings it down to 37.5% — making it more approachable without sacrificing the character. Traditional botanicals sit alongside myrrh (the ancient resin), lemon balm, and apricot kernels — an unusual trio that hints at the distillery's willingness to experiment.
Tasting
The nose is full-bodied — myrrh adding exotic resinous quality, lemon balm freshness, juniper present. On the palate at 37.5%, mild on the tongue with delicate citrus leading to smooth juniper. Apricot kernel adds subtle almond-like nuttiness, lemon balm provides herbal freshness. Beautifully balanced despite the lower ABV. The finish is long-lasting with smooth juniper and persistent myrrh.
The Bottom Line
Batch Next Generation earns a 6 — the myrrh and apricot kernel make this genuinely individual, and the lower ABV makes it approachable for those who found the Industrial Strength intimidating. However, at 37.5%, some of the Industrial Strength's intensity is inevitably lost. Best in a G&T where the gentler strength lets the tonic interact more generously with the botanicals. At £30, an accessible entry point to Batch's distinctive style.
