I've been using Tanqueray No. Ten as my go-to premium gin for several months now, and it's proven to be a reliable choice with some notable characteristics that set it apart from the standard Tanqueray expression.

What Makes It Different

The most immediately apparent quality is the citrus-forward approach. Where many London Dry gins lead with juniper, No. Ten brings fresh citrus botanicals to the forefront. I notice grapefruit most prominently, followed by orange and lime notes. This isn't subtle—it's a deliberate shift that changes how the gin behaves in drinks.

The base spirit feels clean and well-distilled. There's no burn or harsh alcohol bite that I sometimes encounter with lower-tier gins. It's smooth enough to sip neat if you're inclined, though I primarily use it in cocktails.

In Practice

For martinis, No. Ten performs admirably. The citrus character adds dimension without overpowering the vermouth, and it makes for a brighter, more refreshing martini than juniper-heavy alternatives. I've found it pairs particularly well with a lemon twist rather than olives.

In gin and tonics, the citrus notes complement the quinine bitterness nicely. I prefer this with a quality tonic and fresh grapefruit garnish, which reinforces the gin's natural character. With lower-quality mixers, though, the citrus can come across as slightly one-dimensional.

Where I've found it less ideal is in more botanical-heavy cocktails like a Negroni. The pronounced citrus doesn't always play nicely with Campari's bitter complexity, and I tend to reach for a more traditional London Dry for those applications.

The Value Question

This is where I have some reservations. No. Ten sits in premium pricing territory, and while it's undeniably well-made, I'm not convinced it offers significantly more value than several craft gins at comparable price points. The flavor profile is distinctive but not necessarily superior—just different.

For someone who specifically wants a citrus-forward gin, this delivers exactly that. But if you're looking for traditional gin character or maximum botanical complexity, your money might be better spent elsewhere.

Bottom Line

Tanqueray No. Ten is a competent, well-executed premium gin with a clear identity. I keep it in my rotation for specific applications where its citrus character is an asset. It's not revolutionary, but it's consistent and reliable. Whether it's worth the premium over standard Tanqueray or other mid-range options depends largely on how much you value that citrus-forward profile in your regular gin drinks.