We launched our Navy Strength Gin in January 2026 and we recently sat down with our master distiller, Brad Birch to understand a little more about his thoughts on the new bottle.
Q. Brad, good to see you first of all. Let’s start at the beginning – why Navy Strength?
A. Our focus from the start of this journey has always been sourcing the best ingredients we could find to create unique flavour combinations, mainly hinting towards our ‘foody’ background. It felt right to create something that showcased the core values of everything to do with gin and its traditional flavours and then amplifying them. Navy Strength gin has strong roots within British Naval History, back in the 18th century, sailors were issued gin rations (much like we all are at Tipsy!). The navy needed to make sure the gin was strong enough to survive at sea and as such they wanted to know how strong would the gin have to be to still ignite gunpowder if spilled, 57% was the magic number for just that. What started as something practical is now more than just the alcohol. We wanted our botanicals to be more vibrant on the palette, rather than a whisper, a bold statement of our premium ingredients.
Q. Tell us a bit about the development of the liquid. Where did you start? How long has it been in the making? Were you happy with it first time round or has it been a labour of love?
A. Bold vibrant flavours was the starting concept for us. We wanted to show off all of our botanicals in true fashion. From there it was all about trial and error! Many people assume the sampling is the ‘best bit’ of the job but I can guarantee you it becomes quite tedious after the 10th taste test! Having such an array of skilled palettes around us means eventually we all came to a happy conclusion of where we wanted the liquid to be, bold and punchy was always the target.
Q. What about the botanicals, did the higher ABV make a difference?
A. Absolutely! As I’ve mentioned this gin is all about showcasing our botanicals. The higher ABV makes citrus hit sharper, spices feel warmer and the herbal notes come alive. Even the body changes, making it feel more full and almost heavier! There is definitely some interesting science behind it but I tend to just stick to a G&T!
Q. The bottle looks like we are about to set sail. Where did the inspiration come from?
A. If you know us you know we are all about adventure, from Surrey to Mumbai we are always keen to do something interesting. We wanted a bottle that subtly nods to British history yet feels modern and bold much like the flavours. Telling a story starts with the outside of the bottle before the inside!
Q. What’s different about Tipsy’s Navy Strength?
A. This wasn’t about making another gin for us, it was so much more. We always want our bottles to taste exactly like what we are telling you they do. A collaboration of the best botanicals we can find and a bit of science / history felt like the best way of showing you what we can really do. Whether on its own or as a ’Navy French 75’ we want you savour each sip and understand what gin really is all about.
Navy Strength Gin – 50cl
DID YOU KNOW?
Set sail and conquer the seas with Tipsy Navy Strength gin. Our botanical recipe is a nod to years past, refined for naval officers and men at sea, Tipsy’s Navy Strength gin is intense with a high proof which harnesses the classic, clean finish to Tipsy’s London Dry gin to a supercharged level. A couple of drops of water will help to release the floral and citrus aromas of the drink and despite the high proof, it still has a gentle and refreshing finish.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY?
Back in the day gin had to be Navy Strength as it was stored next to the gunpowder below deck. A lower alcohol percentage like our signature London Dry at 40% ABV would damage the gunpowder if it was to leak on the gunpowder. The Navy Strength with 57% is a flammable liquid and would therefore not damage the gunpowder. These days, no self-respecting bartender would omit it from their arsenal either.
THE IMPORTANT BIT
It’s the middle of the week, treat yourself to something special!
Bottle size – 50cl
Alc – 57% vol
