Where to Buy Bathtub Gin
You can buy bathtub gin from craft distilleries, specialty liquor stores, and online retailers that focus on small-batch, artisanal spirits. These sources offer authentic, unique flavors perfect for cocktails or sipping straight. Local distilleries often provide tastings and direct sales, while online platforms like ReserveBar or Drizly deliver rare selections right to your door. Whether you want classic or modern takes, exploring these options can deepen your appreciation of this historic spirit.
Understanding Bathtub Gin: What Makes It Unique
Although you might think all gin is created equal, bathtub gin stands apart because of its unique history and production methods. You’ll find that this style originated during Prohibition when people made gin at home in small batches, often in actual bathtubs.
Unlike mass-produced gin, bathtub gin embraces a handcrafted approach. You’ll notice it often has a bolder, rougher flavor profile since it’s typically distilled in smaller stills with less filtration.
When you try bathtub gin, you’re tasting a piece of history—one that values authenticity over uniformity. Its artisanal nature means each batch can vary slightly, offering you a distinctive experience.
Understanding these traits helps you appreciate why it’s more than just a spirit; it’s a story in a bottle.
Popular Brands Offering Bathtub Gin
Several popular brands have embraced the rich tradition of bathtub gin, offering you a chance to enjoy this distinctive spirit with ease.
Brands like Bathtub Gin Company and Black Button Distilling focus on small-batch, handcrafted gins that capture the essence of the Prohibition era’s homemade charm. You’ll find their products emphasize botanicals and a smooth, bold finish, making them perfect for classic cocktails or sipping neat.
Other notable names include Bluecoat American Dry Gin and St. George Spirits, which bring modern twists while honoring the spirit’s roots. When you choose these brands, you get quality, authenticity, and a nod to history in every bottle.
Keep an eye out for limited editions or seasonal releases that often highlight unique flavors inspired by the bathtub gin legacy.
Specialty Liquor Stores That Stock Bathtub Gin
When you’re searching for authentic bathtub gin, specialty liquor stores often have the best selection. These stores focus on unique, craft, and rare spirits, so you’ll find small-batch and limited-edition bathtub gins that big-box retailers don’t carry.
The staff at these stores usually know their products well, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or tasting notes. Visiting a specialty store also lets you inspect bottles closely to ensure quality and authenticity.
Plus, you might discover local distilleries’ takes on bathtub gin, giving you a taste you won’t find elsewhere. If you want a truly distinctive gin experience, specialty liquor stores are your go-to spots for variety, expertise, and exclusive options.
Online Retailers With Bathtub Gin Selections
If specialty liquor stores don’t have what you’re looking for or you prefer shopping from home, online retailers offer a wide range of bathtub gin options. Websites like ReserveBar, Drizly, and Master of Malt let you browse numerous brands, styles, and price points with just a few clicks.
You can read detailed descriptions and customer reviews to find a gin that suits your taste. Many online shops provide convenient delivery right to your door, often with tracking so you know when your gin will arrive.
Just be sure to check shipping restrictions in your area since alcohol laws vary by state or country. Shopping online gives you access to rare or limited-edition bathtub gins that might be hard to find locally, making it a smart choice for enthusiasts.
Craft Distilleries Producing Authentic Bathtub Gin
Although finding bathtub gin at big retailers can be hit or miss, craft distilleries have embraced the trend by producing authentic, small-batch versions that capture the spirit’s original charm.
When you seek out these distilleries, you’ll discover gin made using traditional methods, often with unique botanicals that reflect local flavors. These producers focus on quality and authenticity, ensuring each batch has that raw, bold character reminiscent of Prohibition-era spirits.
Visiting their tasting rooms or websites allows you to explore their offerings and learn about the distillation process firsthand. Supporting craft distilleries not only gets you genuine bathtub gin but also connects you to passionate makers who keep this historical craft alive.
You’ll find their products are perfect for cocktails or sipping straight.
How to Identify Quality Bathtub Gin
Exploring craft distilleries gives you a great start, but knowing how to spot quality bathtub gin on your own will help you make confident choices anywhere. First, check the ingredients list—top-notch gin uses natural botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus peels without artificial additives.
Next, examine the clarity; quality gin should be crystal clear, not cloudy or murky. Smell the aroma—it should be fresh, balanced, and inviting, not overpowering or chemical-like.
When tasting, expect a smooth, clean finish with complex layers of flavor rather than harsh or overly sweet notes. Finally, look for small-batch production or limited runs, which often indicate careful crafting.
Pricing and Value: What to Expect When Buying Bathtub Gin
When you shop for bathtub gin, understanding the balance between price and quality helps you get the best value. You’ll find prices vary widely depending on craftsmanship, ingredients, and brand reputation.
Typically, affordable options range from $20 to $40, offering decent quality for casual sipping or mixing. Mid-range bottles, priced between $40 and $70, often deliver richer flavors and higher-quality botanicals.
If you’re after premium or small-batch varieties, expect to pay upwards of $70. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better taste, so trust your palate and reviews.
Also, factor in where you buy—specialty stores or distilleries might charge more but offer expert advice and unique selections.
Balancing cost and quality ensures you enjoy bathtub gin without overspending.
International Options for Bathtub Gin Enthusiasts
If you’re eager to broaden your bathtub gin collection, looking beyond your local market reveals exciting international options. Countries like the UK, Australia, and Japan offer unique takes on this classic spirit, often blending traditional techniques with local botanicals.
You can find artisanal distilleries in London crafting small batches with a rich heritage, while Australian producers might infuse native ingredients for a distinct flavor. Japanese distillers emphasize precision and subtlety, creating smooth, refined gins.
Many of these international brands are available through specialized online retailers or international liquor stores. When exploring overseas options, check shipping regulations and import duties to avoid surprises.
Embracing international bathtub gin not only diversifies your collection but also introduces you to global gin culture and craftsmanship.
Pairing Bathtub Gin With Classic Cocktails
Sampling international bathtub gins can inspire new ways to enjoy this versatile spirit, especially in classic cocktails. When you mix bathtub gin in a Martini, you’ll notice its unique botanicals add depth and character, elevating the drink beyond the ordinary.
In a Gin and Tonic, the spirit’s distinct flavors can shine through, so pick a tonic that complements rather than overpowers. Don’t hesitate to experiment with a Negroni, where the gin’s complexity balances the bitterness of Campari and sweetness of vermouth.
Tips for Storing and Enjoying Bathtub Gin at Home
Since bathtub gin is often crafted in small batches with unique botanicals, storing it properly ensures you preserve its distinctive flavors and aromas. Keep your gin in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can degrade its quality.
Use a tightly sealed bottle to prevent oxidation and evaporation. Once opened, try to finish your bottle within six months for optimal freshness.
When enjoying bathtub gin, serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature to fully appreciate its complex notes.
Experiment with simple mixers like tonic or soda to highlight its botanicals without overpowering them.
Lastly, clean your glassware well, as residues can interfere with the gin’s flavor.
Following these tips, you’ll savor every sip of your unique bathtub gin experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the History Behind the Term “Bathtub Gin”?
You’ll find “bathtub gin” refers to homemade liquor during Prohibition, when people mixed alcohol in bathtubs to avoid detection. It was often rough but popular, showing how folks got creative to enjoy spirits.
Can Bathtub Gin Be Homemade Legally?
You can’t legally make bathtub gin at home because distilling spirits without a license is illegal in most places. However, you can infuse neutral spirits with botanicals to create a gin-like flavor legally.
How Does Bathtub Gin Differ From Traditional Gin in Flavor?
Bathtub gin tastes rougher and less refined than traditional gin. You’ll notice stronger, uneven flavors because it’s homemade without precise distillation, lacking the smoothness and balance that professional methods and botanicals usually provide.
Are There Any Health Risks Associated With Bathtub Gin?
Yes, you should be cautious. Bathtub gin can contain harmful impurities or unsafe alcohol levels since it’s homemade or unregulated. Drinking it might cause poisoning or long-term health issues, so always prioritize safety and quality.
What Botanicals Are Typically Used in Bathtub Gin Recipes?
You’ll typically find juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, citrus peels, and sometimes cardamom or cinnamon in bathtub gin recipes. These botanicals give it that classic, aromatic, and slightly spicy flavor you’ll enjoy.
Conclusion
Now that you know where to find bathtub gin, you’re all set to explore its unique flavors. Whether you choose a popular brand, a craft distillery, or an online retailer, you’ll enjoy a special spirit with rich history. Don’t forget to store it properly and try it in classic cocktails for the best experience. So go ahead, grab a bottle, and savor the distinctive charm of bathtub gin at home!
