Beefeater 24 gets its name from the twenty-four hour maceration time that its twelve botanicals undergo. While many of the botanicals are familiar to Beefeater drinkers, the two tea botanicals set it apart.
Aroma: Strikingly similar to Beefeater Gin. Citrus, juniper and the slightest hint of licorice root beneath it.
Flavor: Beefeater 24 is quite pleasant with sweet citrus, including notes of lemon rind and sweet lime— that moves into a mid-palate with juniper. Though less juniper-forward, the juniper is still here and remains the gin’s centerpiece.
Finish: Long and dry, there’s a grassy, vegetal note of warm green tea. Moderate astringency.
Cocktails
Beefeater 24 works quite well as a classic style gin in mixing. I think the green tea notes are less successful in drinks like the Ramos Gin Fizz or other creamy fizzes. I find that the longer, more astringent finish adds complexity in cocktails with bitter and herbal counterpoints. Try it in a Dry Martini with an Olive. The Seville Orange nose is a nice counter point to the vegetal brine notes of a pickled Onion in the Gibson.
Overall, bartenders and home mixologists will find Beefeater 24 a versatile mixer with a point of difference on the finish.
Overall, Beefeater 24
What was a startling contemporary style gin upon its launch now comes across as rather traditional. But that’s no criticism of Beefeater 24.
Beefeater’s premium offering is still an exceptionally well-made gin with wide appeal. Fans of Japanese gins looking for something a bit more widely available will find Beefeater 24 an apt substitute.
Overall, it’s as worth checking out today as it was upon it’s launch over ten years ago.
Recommended in its category.