What is Old Tom gin?

The term "Old Tom gin" refers to sweet (retro) gins made during the gin craze. This type of gin is rarely used anymore, but thanks to the revival of classic cocktails , Old Tom gin is being produced again and is available again. This gin is sweeter than London Dry and slightly drier than genever, so it's sometimes called the missing link. The name "Old Tom" most likely originates in the eighteenth century, when a wall decoration in the shape of a black cat, or Old Tom, was hung on the outside wall of some bars. Thirsty passersby could toss a penny into the cat's mouth and then receive a shot of gin from the bartender through a small tube between the cat's paws. The first vending machine was born!

At the time of writing, there are five Old Tom gins on the market. Below are four, and a little further down, under the Aged gins, you'll find the fifth.

Old Tom gins aren't paired with tonic water, but were introduced to give bartenders the opportunity to once again feature retro gin cocktails (like a Tom Collins or a Martinez). If you're still in the mood for these sweet gins, simply enjoy them neat.