Beefeater London Dry Gin

Beefeater London Dry Gin is one of the world's most recognizable spirits, deeply rooted in the history of London distilling. The brand's origins date back to 1820, when foundations were laid at the Chelsea Distillery, though it was officially launched in 1876 by pharmacist-turned-distiller James Burrough. The name pays homage to the Yeomen of the Guard, the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London, reflecting its quintessentially British character.

While many historic gin brands moved production out of the capital over the centuries, Beefeater remains produced in the heart of the city. Since 1958, it has been distilled at the Kennington distillery in London, hand-crafted using nine botanical ingredients—including juniper, Seville orange, and lemon peel—steeped for 24 hours before distillation. This adherence to traditional methods and local production maintains its status as the only major international London Dry Gin brand still made in London.

Ownership of the brand transitioned from the founding Burrough family to the hospitality giant Whitbread in 1987. It was later acquired by the French spirits conglomerate Pernod Ricard in 2005. Under Pernod Ricard's executive management, Beefeater has solidified its position as a global leader in the premium gin market.