Cadenhead's Old Raj Dry Gin
Cadenhead's · William Cadenhead Ltd.
Old Raj is a gin of rare character—the saffron infusion turns a classic juniper-forward profile into something genuinely singular, perfect for the waning warmth of November. Its navy strength makes it a commanding presence in cocktails or neat, and its Scottish provenance from one of the oldest independent bottlers in the world lends quiet authority. A gin that feels like the last golden light before winter.
Nose
An immediate rush of juniper pine and warm saffron, earthy and exotic, like opening a spice merchant's chest at the end of harvest season. Underneath, bright lemon zest and coriander seed mingle with a faint honeyed sweetness. A whisper of angelica root and dried ginger adds autumnal depth.
Palate
Full-bodied and boldly spiced at navy strength, with saffron lending a savory warmth that sets it apart from any other gin. Juniper dominates the midpalate alongside cracked black pepper and cassia bark, while grapefruit peel and orris root provide a floral-citrus counterbalance. The high proof carries every botanical with remarkable clarity.
Finish
Long and warming, with lingering saffron, dried juniper, and a peppery tingle that slowly fades into gentle earthiness. A final echo of citrus peel keeps the finish bright.
- Style
- Dry Gin (Saffron-infused, Navy Strength)
- Botanicals
- Juniper, coriander, angelica root, orris root, lemon peel, cassia bark, saffron
- Base Spirit
- Grain neutral spirit
- Distillation
- Pot-distilled with traditional botanicals, finished with an infusion of premium Spanish saffron
Cocktail Suggestion
The Saffron Harvest — 2 oz Cadenhead's Old Raj Dry Gin · 0.75 oz honey syrup (2:1) · 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice · 2 dashes Angostura bitters · Shake with ice, strain into a coupe, garnish with a lemon twist and a single saffron thread.
Food Pairing
The gin's saffron backbone harmonizes with a one-pot saffron-braised chicken thigh nestled among parsnips, carrots, and turnips—a late-autumn braise where the warm spice in both glass and plate echo one another, while the gin's juniper and pepper cut through the richness of the braising liquor.
Born from Scotland's oldest independent bottler—founded in 1842—Old Raj draws its distinctive golden hue and earthy warmth from hand-selected Spanish saffron, a finishing touch that transforms a classic dry gin into something wholly its own.
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