Henry’s No.1 London Special Dry Gin

Henry’s No.1 London Special Dry Gin is a bit of a mystery in the modern gin landscape—likely a discontinued or export-market bottling, with very limited formal documentation available. But that just makes it ripe for speculative exploration, especially given your knack for uncovering hidden gems.

Speculative Tasting Notes

Appearance: Clear and bright, with a medium viscosity suggesting a traditional grain-neutral spirit base.

Nose:

Classic London Dry profile: assertive juniper upfront. Subtle citrus peel—likely lemon and bitter orange. Faint coriander seed warmth, with a whisper of angelica root and orris for earthy depth. Possibly a trace of cardamom or cassia bark, depending on the distiller’s leanings.

Palate: Crisp and dry, with juniper dominating the mid-palate. Citrus oils add a zesty lift, balanced by peppery spice and a touch of herbal bitterness. The mouthfeel is lean, not oily—suggesting minimal sugar or glycerin.

Finish: Clean and brisk, with lingering pine and citrus zest.A faint mineral edge, possibly from the water source or distillation cuts.

Contextual Notes
The “Special” designation may imply a slightly elevated botanical bill or export-market tailoring—often a nod to more citrus-forward or smoother profiles.

If this bottle dates to the late 20th century, expect a more restrained botanical complexity compared to today’s craft gins.