London has always been a city where the drinks culture is lived, not just enjoyed. From centuries-old merchants in St James’s to some of the world’s most innovative cocktail bars, the city brings together heritage and creativity in a way few places can. It’s where tradition is not just preserved, but constantly reinterpreted — often in a single glass.

That’s what makes the story of No.3 Gin so fitting. At the 2026 International London Spirits Competition, the gin was awarded Spirit of the Year, securing a Double Gold medal and an outstanding 98-point score. But this isn’t just another award story. It’s a London story — one that begins with Berry Bros. & Rudd, Britain’s oldest fine wine and spirits merchant, and unfolds across the city’s bars, shelves, and drinking culture.

A merchant’s understanding turned into a product

For over 320 years, Berry Bros. & Rudd has built its reputation on one thing — understanding what makes a great drink. Not just in terms of taste, but in terms of how it’s chosen, enjoyed, and remembered.

That experience is what shaped No.3 Gin.

Rather than chasing trends or reinventing the category, the aim was clear from the beginning: to create a benchmark London Dry Gin. Something precise, balanced, and dependable. Developed over two years in collaboration with Dr David Clutton and leading mixologists, the focus was on crafting a gin that would perform where it matters most — in classic serves like the Martini.

The result is a spirit that feels instantly familiar, yet distinctly refined. Clean, structured, and confident, it doesn’t try to do too much — and that’s exactly why it works.

From St James’s to the global stage

The success of No.3 Gin at the International London Spirits Competition is not just about taste. The competition itself evaluates spirits across quality, value, and packaging — essentially, how a product performs in the real world.

No.3 Gin – Double Gold, 98 Points

In that context, No.3 stands out because it delivers across every touchpoint.

Its packaging, inspired by Berry Bros. & Rudd’s historic address at No.3 St James’s Street, is both elegant and recognisable. Its flavour profile is clear and versatile. And its positioning makes it easy to understand, whether you’re seeing it on a shelf or ordering it at a bar.

It’s a product that doesn’t need explanation — and in today’s world, that’s a rare advantage.

Where to try it: the Martini that defines London

If there’s one place where No.3 Gin feels truly at home, it’s at Dukes Bar.

Tucked away in St James’s, Dukes has long been known for serving one of the best Martinis in the world. The experience is understated but precise — a quiet ritual that has remained largely unchanged over the years.

Here, the focus is entirely on the drink.

The Martini arrives ice-cold, perfectly balanced, and without unnecessary embellishment. It’s a reminder that when the ingredients are right, simplicity is everything.

No.3 Gin fits seamlessly into this setting. Its clarity and structure allow the Martini to shine, delivering a drink that feels both timeless and distinctly London.

For anyone looking to understand why this gin matters, this is where to start.

What London is drinking now

Beyond the Martini, the broader results of the competition offer a snapshot of how London drinks today.

There is still a strong appreciation for classics, but alongside that is a growing curiosity for new flavours and global influences. Spirits like Kakira Dark Rum and Martin Albus Liker OD Višnje reflect a willingness to explore, while products like Żubrówka Vanilla Flavoured Vodka show that approachable, flavour-led drinks continue to have their place.

Tequila, too, continues to rise, with expressions like Herradura Reposado appearing more frequently on menus — not just for shots, but for sipping and cocktails.

London’s drinks scene has always been about balance, and that’s exactly what these results reflect.

A shift towards mindful drinking

Another notable change is the growing presence of no- and low-alcohol options.

With dedicated judging panels led by Laura Willoughby and Josh Kelly, the category continues to gain momentum. Across London, more venues and retailers are embracing drinks that offer flavour without the alcohol, making mindful drinking an increasingly normal part of the experience.

Whether it’s a midweek choice or simply a different way to enjoy a night out, it’s a shift that reflects how the city is evolving.

A London story, through and through

At its heart, the success of No.3 Gin is about more than a single product or a single award.

It’s about what happens when deep understanding meets clear execution.

A merchant who has spent centuries learning what people enjoy has created a gin that fits perfectly into how people drink today. From the heritage of St James’s to the global recognition of the International London Spirits Competition, and from the shelves of London shops to the bar at Dukes, it is a story that feels entirely rooted in the city.

And like London itself, it’s a story that continues to evolve — one drink at a time.