Cocktails with Sloe Gin
Sloe gin is a British liqueur made from sloe berries (blackthorn fruit) steeped in gin. Red in color with tart, almond-like flavor, used in the Sloe Gin Fizz.
No Sloe Gin? What to use instead
- Type
- Liqueur
- Strength
- 25–30% ABV
- Aroma
- Berry, Almond, Plum, Gin botanicals
- Taste
- Tart berry, Almond, Sweet, Hint of gin
- Finish
- Fruity, Almond, Slightly tart
4 drinks with Sloe Gin
History
Sloe gin has been made in England since the 17th century, traditionally by country households. The berries are picked after the first frost. Quality declined when mass producers used artificial flavoring, but craft versions have revived the category.
How it’s made
Made by steeping sloe berries in gin with sugar. Traditional recipes macerate for months. The sloe's natural pectin creates a thick mouthfeel. Quality varies dramatically—premium versions use real sloes in real gin.
Bottles to try
Plymouth Sloe GinMid-range
Premium sloe gin with real sloes and Plymouth gin base.
Sipsmith Sloe GinPremium
Craft London sloe gin, handpicked berries and real maceration.
Hayman's Sloe GinMid-range
Traditional English sloe gin from family gin distillers.
Got Sloe Gin at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.