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wine review

Here’s a new gin with an old story. Inspired by a 19th-century recipe attributed to the famous gin brand’s founder, Charles Tanqueray, it was originally launched two decades ago as a companion to Diageo’s bestselling flagship Tanqueray in the famous green bottle. Less juniper-forward than the regular bottling, it was discontinued a few years later. One might say Malacca was ahead of its time. Vintage bottles soon became collectors’ items, fetching steep prices at auction. Now it’s back – at a very attractive price.

It’s an inspired and finely balanced spirit, with lovely nose-tickling spice and citrus notes. Peppercorn, clove and rose – the expression’s three explicitly billed botanicals – lead the way, along with a sweet-citrus core. Yet this remains anchored enough in juniper to please fans of classic London dry gin. Available in Ontario at the price below (on sale for $28.95 until July 22), $26.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $34.73 in Saskatchewan, $29.99 in Manitoba, $33.49 in New Brunswick, $29.99 in Prince Edward Island, $32.99 in Nova Scotia, $31.48 in Newfoundland.

  • Price: $31.95/700 ml

Rating:93 /100

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