Old Tom Gin: History, Taste, and Revival of a Forgotten Gin

🐾 Old Tom Gin: A Sweet Chapter in the History of Gin

What is Old Tom Gin?

Old Tom Gin is a style of gin that appeared in England in the 18th century. Less dry than a London Dry Gin and sweeter than a Dutch Jenever, it is often considered the "missing link" in the evolution of gin. Its slightly sweet profile makes it particularly accessible and appreciated by classic cocktail enthusiasts.

A History of Smuggling and Ingenuity

During the "Gin Craze" in England, authorities imposed severe restrictions on the production and sale of alcohol. The result: distillation became clandestine, and the quality of gin suffered. To make the drink more pleasant, smugglers began adding sugar or aromatic herbs.

The name Old Tom is said to come from black cat-shaped signs installed on the walls of certain establishments. A coin was slipped into a slot under the cat's paw, and a glass of gin was discreetly served through a wall pipe. An ingenious system that marked the history of gin.

A Modern Renaissance

Disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century, Old Tom Gin is now making a big comeback thanks to the enthusiasm for craft cocktails. This sweet and aromatic gin is the ideal base for vintage recipes like the Martinez, the Tom Collins, or even to be enjoyed neat.

✨ Try Old Tom Gin with Erika Spirit

Want to discover this historic style without committing to a large bottle? Discover our Erika Old Tom Gin in a mini 5cl format — an organic artisanal gin distilled in Dordogne with unique ingredients like rosemary, tarragon, Provins flowers, and a local acacia honey. Sweet, floral, and award-winning, it’s the perfect companion for your tastings or cocktail creations.

🏅 Silver Medal – International Lyon Competition 2021

Old Tom Gin is much more than a simple variation of classic gin: it’s a journey back in time, an alcoholic madeleine de Proust, and a trend that is making a strong comeback among mixologists. And you, ready to rediscover gin as it was in the 18th century?

Cheers, and long live old-fashioned gin!

Want to taste an Old Tom Gin?
Try our mini version by Erika Spirit – floral, organic, and 100% French.