A Buyer's Guide to Tarquin's Rhubarb and Raspberry Gin

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the crowded spirits market. The rise of flavoured gins has brought a wonderful variety of choices, but it has also introduced a few common pitfalls for shoppers. This guide will help you understand what to look for, ensuring the bottle you choose delivers on its promise of quality and flavour.

The world of pink gin UK is particularly vibrant, but not all that glitters is gold. Many shoppers are caught out by a few recurring issues that can lead to disappointment.

1. The "Gin Liqueur" Disguise: One of the most frequent points of confusion is the difference between a flavoured gin and a gin liqueur. Many brightly coloured, sweet-tasting bottles are actually liqueurs with a lower alcohol content (often 20-25% ABV) and a higher sugar content. A spirit must legally have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of at least 37.5% to be classified as gin in the UK. Buying a liqueur when you expect a gin can result in weak, overly sweet cocktails.
2. Artificial Flavours and Colours: That appealing ruby or pink hue doesn't always come from real fruit. Some producers rely on artificial colourings and flavourings to create their product, which can result in a synthetic, one-dimensional taste that lacks the complexity of a naturally infused gin. The initial sweet hit often fades into a chemical aftertaste.
3. The "Craft" Illusion: The term "craft" is used liberally, but it can sometimes be a marketing veneer rather than a true indicator of quality or origin. Without a clear connection to a specific distillery, production method or geographical location (like a genuine Cornish gin), the term can be meaningless.

Key Factors to Check Before You Buy

To avoid these traps and select a high-quality rhubarb and raspberry gin, focus on a few core specifications. These details are usually found on the label and are non-negotiable indicators of a well-made spirit.

1. Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

This is the most straightforward quality check. As mentioned, a true gin must be at least 37.5% ABV. Anything less is a gin liqueur. A full-strength gin provides the botanical backbone needed to stand up in a tonic or cocktail, ensuring a balanced and flavourful drink. A lower ABV often means you are paying for a product that is diluted and has a higher sugar content.

2. Flavour Source and Botanicals

Look for transparency about how the gin is flavoured. Phrases like "infused with real rhubarb and raspberries" or "post-distillation infusion" are good signs. This indicates that the flavour comes from actual fruit, not synthetic essences. A quality Tarquin's flavoured gin will balance its signature fruit notes with classic gin botanicals. Juniper must be present, but look for how it interacts with other elements like citrus peels, coriander or floral notes to create a more complex and satisfying taste profile.

3. Distillery and Origin

A spirit's provenance can tell you a lot about its character. A gin that proudly states its origin, such as being a Cornish gin, connects it to a specific place and often a particular production style. For example, Tarquin's is well-known for using flame-fired copper pot stills, a traditional method that contributes to the final texture and flavour of the spirit. This level of detail provides assurance that you are buying a product with a genuine heritage.

Our Top Product Recommendations

Based on these criteria, we have matched a few products to different user needs. This is not a ranked list, but a selection to help you find the right fit for your occasion.

MATCH FOR: The Fruity Gin Enthusiast

Tarquin's Rhubarb And Raspberry Gin 70cl

Why This Fits Their Persona: Ideal for those seeking an authentic, vibrant gin for creating memorable summer gin cocktails or giving a high-quality fruity gin gift. This person appreciates genuine fruit flavour and the heritage of a true Cornish spirit.

How It Avoids the Trap

This is a full-strength gin at 38% ABV, not a liqueur. It is proudly distilled in Cornwall, avoiding the vague "craft" label, and its flavour profile is derived from a post-distillation infusion of real rhubarb and raspberries.

Key Advantage & Pros

Authentic, complex flavour balancing tart rhubarb, sweet raspberry and classic juniper. Its Cornish origin and traditional production methods ensure a high-quality spirit.

MATCH FOR: The Convenient Cocktail Host

Bombay Sapphire Gin and Tonic RTD Canned Cocktail

Why This Fits Their Persona: Perfect for the host of a picnic, barbecue or casual gathering who values a consistent, bar-quality drink without the effort of mixing. It offers reliability and a classic taste profile in a convenient format.

How It Avoids the Trap

This ready-to-drink can avoids the "too sweet" trap by using a globally recognised gin and a balanced tonic. The 6.5% ABV is clearly stated, ensuring there is no confusion about its strength or purpose.

Key Advantage & Pros

Delivers a consistent and refreshing G&T experience with zero preparation. The use of Bombay Sapphire's vapour-infused gin provides a classic, vibrant botanical flavour.

MATCH FOR: The Curious Gifter

Amaretto and Sapling Vodka White Christmas Liqueur Gift Box

Why This Fits Their Persona: An excellent choice for someone looking to explore spirits beyond gin or find a unique, well-presented gift. This tasting set offers variety and is perfect for discovering new cocktail ingredients or enjoying neat.

How It Avoids the Trap

This product is clearly and honestly labelled as a "Liqueur Gift Box," completely avoiding the gin vs. liqueur confusion. It is presented as a tasting experience, which manages expectations about its purpose and contents.

Key Advantage & Pros

Offers a curated selection of three different liqueurs in one package. The 100ml bottles are ideal for sampling without committing to a full-size purchase, making it a versatile and thoughtful gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tonic for Tarquin's Rhubarb and Raspberry Gin?

For a classic serve that allows the gin's fruit notes to take centre stage, a premium, neutral Indian tonic water is an excellent choice. If you prefer to enhance its profile, a light elderflower or Mediterranean tonic water can complement the raspberry and botanical notes beautifully. Garnish with a fresh raspberry and a sprig of mint, or a thin ribbon of rhubarb for a professional touch.

Is Tarquin's a real Cornish gin?

Yes, it is. Tarquin's Gin is produced by Southwestern Distillery, which is located near Wadebridge on the North Cornish coast. The distillery is known for its traditional production methods, including using flame-fired copper pot stills, which reinforces its identity as a genuine Cornish gin.

How long does flavoured gin last once opened?

While gin does not spoil like wine, its flavour profile can diminish over time, especially for gins infused with natural fruits. Once opened, it is advisable to consume the bottle within a year for the optimal taste experience. To preserve its character for as long as possible, always store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place with the cap sealed tightly.