First Impressions
Orkney Gin Company's Rhubarb Old Tom revives the 18th-century Old Tom style with Orkney rhubarb — the traditional sweetness of Old Tom complementing the zesty tartness of the fruit. The seven-times-distilled wheat spirit provides a creamy base, and cinnamon, rose petals, and Seville orange round the botanical bill.
Tasting
The nose presents zesty rhubarb with more zest than sweetness, cinnamon warmth, and floral notes from gorse flower and peppery juniper. On the palate, the gin is refreshingly sweet with authentic fruity rhubarb notes enhanced by smooth juniper and citrus peel — rich and balanced. The finish sees rhubarb continuing with delicately balanced rose and smooth juniper warmth.
The Bottom Line
Orkney Rhubarb Old Tom earns a 7.5 for marrying Orkney rhubarb with the traditional Old Tom sweetened style. The zesty tartness and the Old Tom sweetness create excellent balance, and the seven-times-distilled base adds creaminess. At around £38, a fruity Orkney spin on gin's sweeter history.
