So why is Navy Strength Gin called ‘Navy Strength’? It’s actually a really interesting story dating back to the British Royal Navy hundreds of years ago...
Before we begin, we acknowledge that there’s obviously a lot of complicated history around British colonialism which is deeply problematic. But with that there’s a lot of important maritime history and legacy, including the origins of Navy Strength Gin and why it is so important and beloved today.
Back in the 17th century, the British Royal Navy began issuing daily alcohol rations of wine and beer but, as the voyages grew longer and expanded into hot climates, these spoiled easily so spirits such as rum and gin became the preferred choice because of their longer shelf life. Gin was also a more palatable choice because of its botanical flavour.
These savvy sailors wanted to make sure that the spirits they were being given weren’t watered down so they would mix it with gunpowder and light it! If it ignited, it meant that the spirit was at least 57% ABV; anything weaker than that would make the gunpowder damp and unusable. This is where the term ‘proof’ comes from; because the sailors would be proving that the alcohol they were being given was the correct percentage.
"This is where the term ‘proof’ comes from; because the sailors would be proving that the alcohol they were being given was the correct percentage."
It also meant that if a big old cannonball came through the side of the ship and went through the barrels of gin which were stored next to the gunpowder, the gunpowder would still light and was still usable in battle.
Navy Strength Gin is a testament to the resourcefulness of the British sailors. Its reputation as a robust and no-nonsense spirit has made it iconic not just in the Navy, but in the broader history of gin and its role in British culture. It is representative of British maritime tradition and celebrated for its strength and bold flavour.
"Navy Strength Gin is a testament to the resourcefulness of the British sailors."
Learn more about the history of gin at one of our gin experiences or buy a bottle of 58 and CO Navy Strength Gin to try it for yourself.
Keep reading to find out how the famous gin and tonic came about…