Bombay Sapphire Gin

Bombay Sapphire typically retails between €28 and €38 for a standard 70cl bottle at 47% ABV, depending on retailer and market. The Premier Cru Murcian Lemon and The Original 1761 expressions sit at a slight premium above this. For a gin distilled in custom Carterhead stills with vapour infused botanicals, it represents solid value at its price point, though dedicated gin specialists would argue the category now offers considerably more character at comparable prices.

Yes. Bombay Sapphire is distilled from a neutral grain spirit base in Carterhead stills with vapour basket infusion of ten botanicals. The distillation process removes any gluten proteins from the grain derived base to below detectable levels. Bombay Sapphire is considered gluten free and is safe for individuals with gluten intolerance. As always, those with clinically diagnosed coeliac disease should consult a medical advisor before consuming any grain distilled spirit.

The vapour infusion method, which passes spirit vapour through a botanical basket rather than macerating botanicals directly in the spirit, produces a lighter, more aromatic character than typical London Dry gins. On the nose: juniper, lemon zest, coriander, and fresh herbs. On the palate: soft citrus, grains of paradise warmth, and light botanicals. The finish is relatively brief with gentle floral and spice notes. At 47% ABV it has more presence than many competitors at the same price.

The lighter vapour infused botanical profile of Bombay Sapphire suits a clean, well balanced Gin and Tonic with a slice of grapefruit or fresh lemon rather than the traditional lime. A light Indian tonic preserves the delicate floral and citrus character better than a heavily flavoured Mediterranean tonic. It also performs well in a Negroni, where the juniper and herbal notes hold their own against Campari and sweet vermouth without overpowering the balance.

Bombay Sapphire is produced at Laverstoke Mill in Hampshire, England, a historically significant papermill converted into a distillery that opened in 2014. The site features two custom built Carterhead stills and distinctive glasshouse botanical gardens designed by Thomas Heatherwick. The ten botanicals used in production are sourced from eight countries, and the vapour infusion method, rather than direct maceration, is the defining technical feature of the distillation process.