Tanqueray is a London dry gin that originated in London, England, and was first distilled by Charles Tanqueray in 1830. The brand has a rich history and is known for its distinctive flavour, which comes from a blend of botanicals including juniper, coriander, angelica root, and liquorice.
Origin and Early History
The story of Tanqueray gin began in 1830 when Charles Tanqueray, a young man from Bedfordshire, decided to break away from his family’s tradition of pursuing a career in the clergy. Instead, he followed his passion for distilling and established a distillery in the Bloomsbury district of London. Charles was a perfectionist, spending years experimenting with high-quality ingredients and different distillation methods to create a gin that was superior in quality and taste. By 1838, he had perfected his recipe, creating a gin that was smooth yet bold, with a perfect balance of botanicals.
Quality and Distinctive Flavour
Tanqueray gin is celebrated for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavour. The original recipe, which remains a closely guarded secret, includes juniper, coriander, angelica root, and liquorice. These botanicals are carefully selected and distilled to create a gin that is both smooth and complex. The brand’s commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades and a loyal following among gin enthusiasts worldwide.
Market Share and Popularity
While Tanqueray may not command a sizable market share in its native market, its largest market is the United States, where it has become the best-selling imported gin. The brand’s popularity was significantly boosted in the 1980s by a successful advertising campaign featuring the tagline “Tonight we Tanqueray,” which positioned it as a sophisticated and aspirational choice. Today, Tanqueray continues to be a favourite among gin lovers, with a strong presence in bars and households around the world.
Global Reach and Innovation
Tanqueray has not rested on its laurels. The brand has continued to innovate, introducing various flavoured gins inspired by different regions. One notable example is Tanqueray Rangpur Gin, which features the unique flavour of rangpur limes from Bangladesh. This innovation has helped Tanqueray stay relevant and exciting for a new generation of gin drinkers.
Production and Legacy
The original Tanqueray distillery in Bloomsbury was severely damaged during World War II, but the one still that survived, known as “Old Tom,” was moved to a new distillery in Cameron Bridge, Scotland. This still is used to this day to produce Tanqueray gin, ensuring the continuity of the unique flavour profile that Charles Tanqueray first created.
Today, Tanqueray is owned by Diageo, a multinational alcoholic beverages company. Despite changes in ownership and location, the brand has remained true to Charles Tanqueray’s original vision of creating a gin of exceptional quality. Tanqueray’s legacy of distinction continues to thrive, making it a timeless spirit that is enjoyed by gin enthusiasts around the globe.
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