8 Best Gins for the Last Word in 2024

Gin is a versatile and flavorful spirit enjoyed by many around the world. Its complex botanical profile makes it an essential component in various cocktails, adding depth and character to each sip. One such classic cocktail is the Last Word, where gin's unique qualities have the chance to truly shine. We've made a lot of tests and as a result of our research, No. 3 London Gin is the best Gin for Last Word

Selecting the best gin for your cocktail needs can seem daunting given the wide range of choices available, from traditional London Dry gins to contemporary variations with innovative, exotic botanicals. The perfect gin for your Last Word should possess the right balance of flavors and aromatics to complement the other ingredients in the cocktail, namely Green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice.

When choosing a gin for the Last Word, it is vital to consider the distillation process, the blend of botanicals, and the overall quality of the spirit. Factors such as the base spirit, the use of natural ingredients, and the distiller's expertise will influence the final result. Ultimately, your choice of gin will significantly impact the overall flavor and experience of your cocktail.

If you want to know what Gin a is - make sure to read our thorough Gin guide

We spent countless hours researching and sampling various gins to determine the best options for crafting the perfect Last Word. With a thorough understanding of the balance needed in this classic cocktail, we are confident in our selection of top gins to enhance the richness and depth of your drink.

Elderflower Last Word Cocktail

Best Gins for a Last Word Cocktail

As connoisseurs of fine spirits, we understand the importance of choosing the right gin for a classic Last Word cocktail. Made with equal parts gin, lime juice, green Chartreuse, and maraschino liqueur, the gin's flavors should complement and enhance the overall experience. Below, we present our carefully curated list of the best gins that will elevate your Last Word to new heights of taste and sophistication.

Pineapple Last Word Cocktail

No. 3 London Dry Gin

A perfect choice for those who enjoy a premium, traditional London Dry Gin with exceptional taste and quality.

Pros

• Classic, well-balanced taste profile
• Award-winning gin that has been named "World's Best" 4 times
• Beautifully crafted bottle with a unique key design

Cons

• Slightly higher price point compared to other gins
• Not as well-known as some other gin brands
• No additional flavors or variations available

No. 3 London Dry Gin has become one of our absolute favorites when it comes to crafting exceptional gin-based cocktails. With its combination of six botanicals, including juniper, citrus peels, and spices, this gin provides a well-rounded and complex flavor profile that is hard to beat.

The main reason why we recommend No. 3 Gin for the Last Word cocktail is how it perfectly complements the other ingredients, such as Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. Its bright, crisp taste adds depth and complexity, while still allowing the unique characteristics of the other ingredients to shine through.

In addition to its standout taste, No. 3 Gin also comes in an elegantly designed bottle that features a replica of an antique key, making it an eye-catching addition to any home bar. While the price may be a bit higher than some other gins on the market, we believe the quality and flavor more than justify the expense.

In conclusion, we can confidently say that No. 3 London Dry Gin would be an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their Last Word cocktail or any other gin-based drink. Its distinct and well-balanced taste, along with its beautiful presentation, make it a must-try for gin enthusiasts and novices alike.

Check Price

Raspberry Last Word Cocktail

Tanqueray Rangpur Gin

This gin offers a uniquely fruity twist, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their Last Word cocktail experience.

Pros

• Distinct blackcurrant, vanilla, and black orchid flavors
• Balanced complexity with signature Tanqueray Rangpur Gin juniper notes
• Perfect for creating visually stunning and delicious summer cocktails

Cons

• May be too sweet for some traditional gin drinkers
• Price is slightly higher compared to other gins
• Limited availability in some regions

We recently had the pleasure of enjoying Tanqueray Rangpur Gin in our Last Word cocktail and were thoroughly impressed. This gin's unique blend of flavors, featuring French blackcurrants, vanilla, and black orchid floral notes, beautifully complements the other ingredients of a Last Word cocktail.

In our experience, this gin's balanced complexity brings out the best in each component of the Last Word. The signature juniper notes from Tanqueray Rangpur Gin foundation enhance the herbal character of the cocktail, while the added fruity and floral elements create a refreshing and bright drink. The end result is a delightful twist on a classic cocktail that truly impresses.

Aside from its taste, also lends itself to creating visually elegant beverages. Its dark berry hue adds sophistication to any cocktail it's featured in, making it perfect for gatherings or Instagram-worthy pictures.

In conclusion, if you're looking to elevate your Last Word cocktail with an interesting and flavorful gin, we highly recommend giving Tanqueray Rangpur Gin a try. Its unique taste profile, captivating visual appeal, and overall quality make it an excellent choice for both gin enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Check Price

Puerto De Indias Strawberry Gin

We believe the Puerto De Indias Strawberry Gin is an excellent choice for crafting a delightful Last Word cocktail.

Pros

• Rich and fruity Strawberry flavor
• Smooth and velvety texture
• Delicate mix of floral and warm cinnamon notes

Cons

• Not suitable for those who prefer a classic gin taste
• May be too sweet for some palates
• The glass is not included

The Puerto Strawberry Gin offers a unique taste, thanks to the essence of blackberries blended with a careful selection of ingredients. We found that the violet notes give this gin an unmistakable floral touch, which complements the warm, fragrant cinnamon flavors to create a well-balanced profile.

When creating a Last Word cocktail, the complexity of the Puerto De Indias Strawberry Gin adds an extra layer of depth to the mixture. Its fruity and sweet flavors blend harmoniously with the tartness of Green Chartreuse and lime juice, while the warmth of the cinnamon note contrasts with the herbaceous taste of Maraschino liqueur.

In conclusion, the Puerto De Indias is an excellent choice for those looking to add a twist to the classic Last Word cocktail or simply explore new gin flavors. Keep in mind that this gin may not be for everyone, as its distinctive taste defies the expectations of a traditional gin. However, if you're looking to elevate your cocktail experience or impress your guests, we highly recommend giving this gin a try.

Check Price

Opihr Gin

Opihr Gin is a must-try gin, elevating classic gin cocktails like The Last Word with its exceptional blend of botanicals and Mediterranean flair.

Pros

• High-quality ingredients
• Unique, Oriental spice flavors
• Hand-picked botanicals

Cons

• Might not appeal to traditional gin lovers
• Strong spices may overwhelm some palates
• Less suitable for other cocktail mixes

When it comes to crafting a Last Word cocktail, we believe the gin you choose plays a vital role in the overall tasting experience. With Opihr Gin, Spices of the Opihr Gin, its unique blend of Oriental spices provides a refreshing twist to the classic Last Word, enhancing the cocktail's taste profile and complexity.

One reason we think this gin works so well for Last Word is its distinctive flavor. The hand-picked botanicals in Opihr Gin boast a medley of Eastern spices that create a rich and robust backdrop for your cocktail, making it brim with character and nuance.

However, we also acknowledge that these strong spice notes may not suit everyone's palate. For traditional gin enthusiasts who prefer a more juniper-forward taste, Opihr Gin might be a surprising departure from the norm. This gin’s powerful flavors can also potentially overshadow the delicate balance found in some other cocktail mixes.

Despite these minor drawbacks, we're confident in recommending Opihr Gin to anyone looking to add a touch of the exotic to their Last Word cocktail. With its high-quality ingredients and enticing Oriental spice flavors, it undoubtedly makes for an enticing and memorable drinking experience.

Check Price

Gin Mare Modern

If you're in search of a unique gin to elevate your cocktails, Gin Mare Modern is a prime choice full of distinctive Mediterranean flavors.

Pros

• Distinctive blend of Mediterranean ingredients
• Versatile for cocktails or sipping on the rocks
• Limited Edition with fruity summer twist

Cons

• Some may find the flavors too overpowering
• A bit expensive compared to other gins
• May not appeal to those who prefer classic gin tastes

The Gin Mare Modern is a fantastic choice when you're looking to make a "Last Word" cocktail. The blend of Mare Modern botanicals like olives, thyme, basil, and rosemary adds a unique touch to the classic cocktail. The fruity summer notes from the limited edition provide a dynamic spin to the herbaceous gin base, making it refreshing and extraordinarily intriguing.

As we savored the Last Word made with Gin Mare, the cocktail's overall flavor profile improved with a harmonious balance of sweetness, tartness, and herbal depth. The rich notes of juniper, pepper, and citrus from the gin work amazingly well with the green Chartreuse and Maraschino liqueur, creating a complex yet smooth experience for the palate.

In conclusion, we wholeheartedly recommend the Gin Mare to anyone looking to elevate their Last Word cocktails and other exquisite gin-based drinks. Its unique, flavorful blend of Mediterranean ingredients sets it apart from other gins, making it a must-have for those seeking a fascinating flavor journey.

Check Price

Hendrick's Gin

Indulge in the exquisite rose and cucumber infusion of Hendrick's Gin, perfect for a refreshing Last Word cocktail.

Pros

• Unique rose and cucumber infusion
• Artisanal crafting process
• Versatile for both classic and creative cocktails

Cons

• Slightly higher price point
• May not suit those who prefer traditional gin flavors
• Some may find the floral notes overpowering

As gin enthusiasts, we know that a good gin can make or break a cocktail. Hendrick's Gin is the ideal choice for concocting a delectable Last Word cocktail. The unique blend of rose and cucumber not only gives it a distinctive character but also enhances the overall taste of the cocktail. This is all thanks to their artisanal crafting process, which marries two distinct spirits procured from the Bennet and Carter-head stills.

One of the standout features of this gin is its versatility. Besides the Last Word, we found it to be an excellent addition to classic and creative cocktails alike. Whether you're hosting a garden party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, Hendrick's Gin brings a touch of elegance to any occasion.

While there is so much to love about Hendrick's Gin, it does come with a slightly higher price point. However, considering the quality and unique flavor profile, it's certainly a worthwhile investment for any gin aficionado. Some might argue that the cucumber and floral notes might not suit those who prefer traditional gin flavors, and that's definitely something to consider before purchasing. Like with any spirit, personal tastes will vary.

In conclusion, we highly recommend Hendrick's Gin for anyone looking to elevate their Last Word cocktail or add a touch of flair to their gin-based drinks. Its unique flavor profile, versatility, and artisanal crafting process make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and a must-try for anyone looking to expand their gin horizons.

Check Price

Roku Japanese Gin

Roku Gin is a must-try for gin enthusiasts, offering unique Japanese botanicals that enhance any cocktail.

Pros

• Premium artisanal Japanese gin with a clean and bright appearance
• Balanced, smooth flavor with a slightly spicy finish
• Citrusy yuzu aroma combined with floral notes and hints of sansho pepper

Cons

• May be less suitable for those who prefer traditional gin profiles
• Limited availability in some regions
• Not ideal for those seeking bold flavors

As fans of gin cocktails, we recently tried Roku Gin in the classic Last Word cocktail, and it elevated the drink to a whole new level. The intricate blend of six Japanese botanicals – sakura flower and leaves, sencha tea, gyokuro tea, sansho pepper, and yuzu peel – not only complements the herbal notes of Green Chartreuse and maraschino liqueur, but also adds a touch of brightness and mild spice to the drink.

The citrusy yuzu aroma stands out, while the sakura flower and leaves, along with the sansho pepper, give a unique and satisfying balance to the flavor profile. In the Last Word cocktail, Roku Gin seamlessly blends with the other ingredients, bringing out the best in each one and transforming the cocktail into a harmonious and refreshing experience.

Overall, we highly recommend Roku Gin for its versatility and the exciting twist it brings to a classic cocktail like the Last Word. Its delicate and unique flavors make it a fantastic addition to any gin lover's collection. So if you're looking to elevate your cocktail game and infuse some Japanese artisanship into your drinks, look no further than Roku Gin.

Check Price

Martin Miller's Gin

Martin Miller's Gin is a superb choice for those seeking a well-balanced, high-quality gin for the perfect Last Word cocktail.

Pros

• Unique dual distillation process for a balanced citrus and juniper flavor
• Exceptionally pure Icelandic spring water used for a smooth taste
• Perfect for making a refreshing and balanced Last Word cocktail

Cons

• Slightly higher price point than some competing gins
• Not every palate may appreciate the blend of citrus and juniper flavors
• May not be available in all local stores

Martin Miller's Gin has gained an excellent reputation for a reason. The dual distillation process, which separates earthy and citrus botanicals, creates a unique balance between those flavors, resulting in a gin that truly "tastes like gin." The Icelandic spring water used in the blending process adds to the distinct characteristics of this gin, giving it a smooth yet citrus-forward flavor.

We find that Martin Miller's Gin is an ideal choice for the classic Last Word cocktail. The balanced citrus and juniper notes in the gin complement the green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice used in the drink. As a result, Martin Miller's Gin enhances the overall taste of the Last Word, creating a delightful harmony between the cocktail's ingredients.

In our experience, this gin's characteristics make it an exceptional choice not just for the Last Word, but for any gin-based cocktail. Its sophisticated flavor profile allows it to shine through without overpowering other ingredients. We highly recommend giving Martin Miller's Gin a try in your next gin-centric cocktail creation or simply enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its unique qualities.

Check Price

Buying Guide

When choosing the best gin for a Last Word cocktail, it's crucial to consider factors like flavor profile, botanicals, price, and personal preferences. In this buying guide, we'll help you navigate these factors to find the perfect gin for your cocktail adventures.

Flavor Profile

A great gin for a Last Word cocktail should have a well-balanced flavor profile. The chosen gin should be versatile enough to complement the other ingredients in the cocktail, such as Chartreuse and Maraschino liqueur. A gin that is too overpowering or has a peculiar taste may not harmonize well within the cocktail.

Botanicals

Gins are infused with various botanicals, which give each gin its unique flavor and aroma. Common botanicals include juniper berries, coriander, angelica, and citrus peels. While selecting a gin, pay close attention to the list of botanicals, as their flavors and intensity will have a significant impact on the Last Word cocktail's overall taste.

Price

Price is always a consideration when buying any spirit. While there are some exceptional high-end gins on the market, it's possible to find amazing value gins at more affordable prices. Set your budget and explore different options within that range that will work well in a Last Word cocktail.

Personal Preferences

As with any spirit, personal preferences play a significant role in selecting the best gin for a Last Word cocktail. Experiment with different styles of gin, such as London dry, Old Tom, or even a flavored gin, to determine which one suits your taste buds.

In conclusion, finding the best gin for a Last Word cocktail involves considering the gin's flavor profile, the botanicals used in its production, the price, and your personal preferences. As you explore different gins, you'll become more confident in your ability to select the ideal gin to elevate your Last Word cocktail experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top gins for making a gin and tonic?

When it comes to crafting the perfect gin and tonic, we recommend choosing gins with a balance of botanical flavors and a smooth finish. Some of the best gins for a gin and tonic include London Dry Gin, Tanqueray, and Hendrick's. These gins bring out the best of the tonic water and enhance the overall flavor of the drink.

Which gins are best for crafting cocktails?

For cocktails that require a more versatile gin, consider using a gin with a broad range of botanicals and subtle flavor profiles. Some examples include Plymouth Gin, Beefeater, and Sipsmith. These gins easily blend with a variety of cocktail ingredients, making them an ideal choice for crafting a wide range of cocktails.

How to identify a high-quality gin?

Identifying a high-quality gin starts with taking note of its aroma, flavor, and appearance. A clear, colorless liquid with a strong, crisp juniper aroma is a good sign of a high-quality gin. Additionally, the flavor should be well-balanced, with a mix of botanicals that complement each other and a smooth finish. Finally, consider the gin's price—higher-quality gins often come at a premium, reflecting the craftsmanship and time put into their production.

Which gin brands are considered top-shelf?

Some of the most respected and top-shelf gin brands include Tanqueray, Hendrick's, The Botanist, Aviation Gin, and Boodles. These brands consistently produce high-quality gins that are loved by both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

What is the ideal gin choice for a Last Word?

A Last Word cocktail typically features equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. For this classic cocktail, we recommend using a bold, full-bodied gin that can stand up to the strong flavors of the other ingredients. Some great options to consider include St. George Terroir Gin and Leopold Bros. American Small Batch Gin. These gins add a rich, earthy flavor to the Last Word, enhancing the overall taste and making the cocktail a true delight to savor.