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  4. 10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More
  • 10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More 1
  • 10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More 2
  • 10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More 3
  • 10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More 4
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10 Best Gins in the Philippines 2024 | Ginebra San Miguel, Ginto, Bombay Sapphire and More

In the Philippines, drinking gin has become a part of a culture that is associated with camaraderie. The tagay concept of Pinoys is deeply embedded in society, that we often see a scene in local movies where a group of men sharing a bottle or two. Everybody in the country is familiar with the bottle's shape, the archetypal "bilog" or "kwatro kantos" popularized by the country's foremost gin producer, Ginebra.


Fast-forward to modern times, tons of gin types and brands today can cater to different palates. Imported gins are suddenly within our reach and ready to be enjoyed if you are willing to shell out a few bucks. In this article, we lay down our top 10 recommendations, plus you'll get to know how to choose the right gin, a brief introduction to the history of gin itself. So, fill up your glasses and start reading below!

Last updated 07/14/2023
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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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Table of Contents

What Is Gin?

What Is Gin?

Originally used as medicine, juniper berries and alcohol were used to fight gout, gallstones, and infections since 70 A.D. It made its way to the UK in the 13th century, but it was not until the 18th century when the gin craze began in London due to high taxation on beer. 


Since there is no legislation and because of lower taxes, the production of gin skyrocketed, and almost all of the citizens were consuming the liquor. This was also the time when "London Dry Gin" was invented.


The term gin was derived from the words genever, genievre, and jenever, which are all derivatives of the word Juniperus, Latin for juniper. Gin is distilled or redistilled with an assorted number of botanicals such as juniper, flowers, and fresh or dried fruits. The result is a clear spirit with a unique and assertive liquor that can be classified into several types of styles.

How to Choose a Gin - Buying Guide

Let's take a look at some points to know before purchasing a gin online. The more you know about the liquor, the better chances you have in making an informed decision.

1

Select From the Types of Gin

This is a very interesting part of any gin-related discussion that one may encounter online. Usually, a gin's history can be told by its type and the process it went through before it is sold. Manufacturers label their products that include some hint on how the gin came to be. Let's begin.

Jenever Is Location-Based

Jenever Is Location-Based

Strictly speaking, for a gin to be labeled as a Genever or Jenever, it should only originate from specific regions or states. It should come from Belgium, the Netherlands, France, or Germany. The spirit must have a juniper-flavored base with a tinge of malty aroma. Aged Jenever is malty, woody, and has a smoky flavor.

London Dry Is the Most Popular

London Dry Is the Most Popular

The name London Dry is not a type of gin taste but the way it was made. Its production is strictly guarded, and the process is legislated, but it doesn't necessarily have to be made in London. Dry, light, and aromatic are what describe the spirit. The flavor must be juniper-heavy and contains a bittering agent like quinine.

Old Tom Is a Sweeter Gin

Old Tom Is a Sweeter Gin

When it comes to this type of gin, there are no strict regulations in its production. The strong smell of this methylated liquor is disguised with the addition of many botanicals. We could expect a lot of flavors, plus a sweeter flavor because of licorice roots and honey. These inclusions make it easier to drink and much drier than Jenever.

Plymouth Gin Has a More Earthy Flavor

Plymouth Gin Has a More Earthy Flavor

To be called Plymouth Gin, a spirit must be made in Plymouth, England, and nowhere else. The gin has a more earthy flavor because of the focus on root botanicals used during the distillation. Licorice, orris, angelica, and more are added, but with a lesser juniper flavor. Currently, there is only one distillery in Plymouth that produces this gin, so it is impossible to replicate it.

Navy Strength Gin Has Higher Alcohol by Volume

Navy Strength Gin Has Higher Alcohol by Volume

The name came to be because of the way sailors test the strength of a liquor. They will set the drink on fire, and it should light up if there is more than 50% alcohol by volume or over 100% proof. Navy Strength gin should have at least 57% ABV and a high percentage of essential oils for more flavor.

Barrel-Aged Gin Is Uncommon and Rare

Barrel-Aged Gin Is Uncommon and Rare

Gins are usually bottled right after distillation and flavor infusion without aging. That is why barrel-aged gins are uncommon. Like other aged liquors, aged gins are put in barrels to soak up some of the flavors and aromas from the wood and botanicals for up to six months. There is a hint of color on the liquor from the barrel, which is reminiscent of lighter whiskies.

Enjoy an Occasional Infused or Flavored Gin

Enjoy an Occasional Infused or Flavored Gin

A Sloe gin or Pink gin is infused with berries, such as sloe, strawberries, raspberries, or any red fruit, plus sugar after the distillation process. The juniper flavor is not dominant on this type of gin, and distillers freely add whichever botanicals they prefer. Manufacturers add their "signature" to the spirit that presents a predominant color and flavor associated with the brand.

2

Know How the Gin Was Made

Know How the Gin Was Made
  • Vacuum Distillation Method - Here, both the botanicals and neutral base liquor are boiled in a vacuum at a controlled temperature. Boiling at a low temperature allows the botanicals to stay fresh. This also eliminates the possibility of caramelizing and burning.
  • One-Shot Method - This system is commonly used in smaller distilleries where the "one-shot" refers to the number of botanicals used in a recipe for a single batch. The process may use a steep and boil or vapor infusion method.
  • Multiple Shot Method - This is the same as the one-shot method but on a grander scale, where the ratio of botanicals and neutral base liquor is multiplied according to the recipe. This is cost-efficient for some distillers but may compromise the flavor of the end product.
3

Assess the Alcohol Level

Assess the Alcohol Level

Hard liquors are evaluated through their percent in alcohol by volume (ABV) or proof. ABV is the percentage of the total amount of ethanol in a specific volume of a drink. The higher percentage it has, the stronger the drink will be. Simply put, pure alcohol is 100% ABV, while water is 0% ABV. 


A gin's actual degree of alcohol should be at least 35% - 55% or 70-140 proof. If you want to know the ABV of liquor in proof, you can multiply it by two, whereas, from proof to ABV, you should divide it by two. 

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10 Best Gins to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Ginebra San Miguel Inc.

Premium Gin

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. Premium Gin 1

₱171

Low

The Best-Selling Gin in the Philippines

2

Tanduay Distillers, Inc.

Ginto Barrel-Aged Gin

Tanduay Distillers, Inc. Ginto Barrel-Aged Gin 1

₱125

Low

Finally, a Locally Made Barrel-Aged Gin

3

Bombay Spirits Co., Ltd.

Bombay Sapphire Distilled London Dry Gin

Bombay Spirits Co., Ltd. Bombay Sapphire Distilled London Dry Gin 1

₱995

Mid

The Best Spirit for Gin and Tonic

4

Beefeater Distillery

London Dry Gin

Beefeater Distillery London Dry Gin 1

₱749

Low Mid

Your Go-To London Dry Gin for Any Occasion

5

William Grant & Sons Distillers Ltd

Hendrick's Gin

William Grant & Sons Distillers Ltd Hendrick's Gin 1

₱1,879

High Mid

An All-Rounder Contemporary Gin for Everyone

6

Langley Distillery

Langley's Tom Old Gin

Langley Distillery Langley's Tom Old Gin 1

₱900

Mid

A Sweet, Classic, and Well-Balanced Gin

7

House Spirits Distillery

Aviation American Gin

House Spirits Distillery Aviation American Gin 1

₱2,199

High Mid

This Is What a Modern Gin Should Be

8

Bols Lucas Distillery

Bols Genever

Bols Lucas Distillery Bols Genever 1

₱1,400

Mid

Experience the Origin of Gin

9

Black Friars Distillery

Plymouth Gin

Black Friars Distillery Plymouth Gin 1

₱1,590

High Mid

A Versatile Spirit for Any Gin Cocktail

10

Four Pillars Distillery

Navy Strength Australian Gin

Four Pillars Distillery Navy Strength Australian Gin 1

₱2,350

High Mid

Create a Stronger Drink With Lesser Booze

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Ginebra San Miguel Inc.Premium Gin

Premium Gin 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱171
Low
Reference price
₱171
Low

The Best-Selling Gin in the Philippines

Ginebra San Miguel is one of the oldest companies in the Philippines, and for over 185 years, the heritage still lives on. Launched in 2005, their premium gin is an offshoot of the classic gin that every Filipino knew. GSM Premium is made from extra neutral alcohol that's based on fermented sugarcane molasses with Juniper berries and a hint of citrus. 


You'll enjoy a warm hint of ethanol mixed with traces of mint and juniper, plus a further note of lemon mint and pineapple sage. On the nose, subdued candied citrus and orange notes come strongly at the start with a long gin finish on the palate. Although it is considered mild at 35% ABV, anyone can use it on low-key cocktails for a slight buzz.

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No.2

Tanduay Distillers, Inc.Ginto Barrel-Aged Gin

Reference price
₱125
Low

Finally, a Locally Made Barrel-Aged Gin

Tanduay's new liquor aims to capture the younger and more adventurous market of gin drinkers. Traces of natural flavors from citrus, juniper, and coriander with woody notes distinctly highlight the liquor. Its sweet and spicy flavors enhance the mixed botanicals to bring out the natural taste of aged gin. 


The finish sleekly cascades with hints of pepper, juniper, and grapefruit. The golden sunset color of the liquid was achieved by aging it in oakwood barrels for six months. This spirit is the first-ever locally made aged gin under a mainstream brand.

No.3

Bombay Spirits Co., Ltd.Bombay Sapphire Distilled London Dry Gin

Reference price
₱995
Mid

The Best Spirit for Gin and Tonic

The Bombay Sapphire's signature flat-side and sapphire-colored bottle features a photo of Queen Victoria on its label. Their gin is evaporated three times and vapor-infused with 10 different botanicals to achieve their signature taste and aroma. This method gives the gin a more floral tinge as compared to other processes. 


This spirit is a widely available London Dry-style gin that is based on an old 1761 recipe. It has hints of almond, licorice, lemon peel, and an upfront juniper note. The gin's bright spot is its combination with tonic water and a slice of lemon for an excellent gin and tonic. If you want a Sapphire martini or a Sapphire alpine, this is the signature gin to use.

No.4

Beefeater DistilleryLondon Dry Gin

Reference price
₱749
Low Mid

Your Go-To London Dry Gin for Any Occasion

Produced since the 1870s, this gin is an all-rounder when it comes to straight gin drinking or cocktails. The recipe includes 9 botanicals where they are macerated for 24 hours into the base spirit to obtain the Beefeater signature. 


The aroma is a robust juniper with hints of orange, angelica, and licorice. Its taste is an aggressive juniper with mild lemon and pine that builds toward the spicy & gentle coriander, bitter orange, and licorice root end. 


Producing its neutral base spirit is strictly regulated, so it can only be made out of grains without artificial flavor or additives after distillation. You can also try out their other gin varieties for a more bold drinking session with your buddies.

No.5

William Grant & Sons Distillers LtdHendrick's Gin

Reference price
₱1,879
High Mid

An All-Rounder Contemporary Gin for Everyone

Whenever one sees the apothecary-style bottle, there's no mistaking it's Hendrick's gin. It is reminiscent of the time when gin was still considered a medicine. Manufactured by William Grant & Sons, this gin brand was launched in 1999 when there was little diversification in the gin category at that time. 


They used a vapor-infusion method to add flavors while doing a separate maceration method for another batch. These two distillates are then combined to get the deepest and lightest flavor before being infused with rose and cucumber essences. 


Its aroma is dominantly juniper with a musky rose hint that gives a floral impression. The taste is a classic gin that carries the botanicals with a fairly long finish which bears rose petal, lime, cucumbers, and juniper astringency. Hands down, this is a top-shelf gin.

No.6

Langley DistilleryLangley's Tom Old Gin

Reference price
₱900
Mid

A Sweet, Classic, and Well-Balanced Gin

Based on a recipe from the 18th century, Langley's Old Tom Gin captures the balance of the sweetness and the taste of the botanicals. This gin is made at Langley Distillery, a historic distillery that produces over 80 gins under contract. Its production basically follows the London Dry method but is infused with sweetened ingredients after distillation.


It offers aromas of nutmeg, juniper, and creamy orange scent with a few juicy tangerine notes. Tasting it, you will get a mild kick of juniper, fennel, nutmeg, and lemon peel which develops into a soft spearmint and coriander finish that lingers. From the traditional style enjoyed in 18th and 19th century England, this is a well-suited gin to create the best Tom Collins or the Martinez.

No.7

House Spirits DistilleryAviation American Gin

Reference price
₱2,199
High Mid

This Is What a Modern Gin Should Be

The arrival of Aviation Gin in 2006 sparked the interest in the modern definition of gin in the Americas. Produced in Portland by House Spirits Distillery, the softer juniper profile, which is crafted from small batches, appealed to a wider drinking audience. 


It is distilled from 100 percent rye, which is an unusual approach in the gin industry. The aroma has juniper with earthy root spices, which are inviting to any gin fan. The palate adds root beer, cinnamon, cassia, and cardamom, then ends in a long and warm floral, earthy spice of birch beer and orange peel.


The rye base brings a creamier mouthfeel to the gin that should be engaging to super dry martini enthusiasts. Uncap the bottle and mix it with modern cocktails or use it any way you want, Aviation will not disappoint.

No.8

Bols Lucas DistilleryBols Genever

Reference price
₱1,400
Mid
Reference price
₱1,400
Mid

Experience the Origin of Gin

Before gin became popular, there was Genever. Established in 1575, the Lucas Bols Distillery in Amsterdam has been producing liqueurs for over 400 years. Their Genever was first made in 1664 and was recreated in 1820 by using several botanicals. Sometimes called Dutch gin, Genever is the granddaddy of all gins. 


You will smell hints of ginger, beer, and spices in its aroma. The flavor is exceptionally smooth with an initial undertone of apricot and sweet macadamia nuts. The infusion of 22 different botanicals makes it incomparable to its contemporary. 


Plus, the long fermentation of corn, rye, and wheat to the triple distillation process ensures you'll be experiencing the best malt spirit in every bottle. As is, you will surely enjoy its classic taste, but you can also use it to substitute many whiskey cocktails.

No.9

Black Friars DistilleryPlymouth Gin

Reference price
₱1,590
High Mid

A Versatile Spirit for Any Gin Cocktail

As of writing, the only distillery that produces Plymouth Gin is the Black Friars Distillery. This gin type is slightly drier than London Dry because of the higher quantity of root ingredients. It brings a more earthy note with a softened juniper flavor. The aroma revolves around angelica and juniper with tinges of cardamom and coriander. 


This spirit provides a soft and gentle warmth that brings together all the flavors, which are finished by a soft citrus taste and earthiness. Nearly every bartender's gin cocktail can be made with Plymouth gin, but it shines the brightest with martinis and gin-tonic concoctions. If you're looking for a versatile gin for your bar at home, this is one of the best spirits to consider.

No.10

Four Pillars DistilleryNavy Strength Australian Gin

Reference price
₱2,350
High Mid

Create a Stronger Drink With Lesser Booze

Launched in 2013, Four Pillars is a craft distillery located in Australia's Yarra Valley. Winning many accolades, this gin brand continues to be the standard-bearer of Australian gin. If you're a fan of naval strength gins, this is a no-brainer choice.


Their Navy Strength Gin is intense but smooth that is specially made for cocktails. This over-proofed gin is infused with native finger limes and ginger. Adding turmeric brings an earthy quality while the coriander and star anise embolden the flavor. 


The aggressive taste will surely capture your interest when it comes to experimenting with different cocktail mixes for an enchanting and fragrant brew. The good thing about it is you don't need much to get a good buzz. Maybe it's time for you to mix up a fast gin and tonic with extra strength.

It's Time to Broaden Your Wine Collection

It's Time to Broaden Your Wine Collection

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just plainly love consuming wine, there's no reason for you to limit yourself to just popular brands. There are local wines that might interest you too. Below are some links to the best wines on our recommended lists. 

Summary

Now that you have a better understanding of the variety of gins available within your reach, you can start expanding your liquor collection. Get to experience the difference and subtle nuances in every gin shot. Or, you can experiment with your own cocktails using gin as your base spirit. Whichever way you want to enjoy a good bottle of gin, just drink moderately.


Author: C. Lacson

Editor: A. Mangulabnan

Top 5 Gins

No. 1: Ginebra San Miguel Inc.Premium Gin

No. 2: Tanduay Distillers, Inc.Ginto Barrel-Aged Gin

No. 3: Bombay Spirits Co., Ltd.Bombay Sapphire Distilled London Dry Gin

No. 4: Beefeater DistilleryLondon Dry Gin

No. 5: William Grant & Sons Distillers LtdHendrick's Gin

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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