Old RAJ (Cadenhead's) Dry Gin 700ml

Old Raj is produced by William Cadenhead Ltd., established in 1842 and recognized as Scotland's oldest independent bottler of whisky and other spirits. The company first produced Old Raj in 1972 in Campbeltown, and it remains best known for its personal touch: the gin's distinctive pale golden hue comes from saffron added by hand, historically overseen directly by the company's chairman to keep every batch consistent.

The gin is distilled from eight classic botanicals, including juniper, coriander, citrus peel, cassia, orris root, and almond, using traditional methods. Because saffron loses its character during distillation, it is stirred in afterward rather than distilled with the other botanicals, a technique that technically classifies Old Raj as a distilled gin rather than a true London Dry. It is available in two strengths, a 46% ABV red label and a considerably more powerful 55% ABV blue label, the latter counted among the highest-proof gins on the market.

On the nose, juniper leads, framed by citrus, coriander, and the subtle earthiness of saffron. The palate is bold and full, with cardamom and anise weaving through the citrus and juniper backbone, while the higher-proof version brings extra intensity and a longer burn. The finish is smooth and lingering. It holds up especially well in a classic gin and tonic or a Negroni.