Gin is a spirit steeped in history and sophistication, and it has long been the beverage of choice for many distinguished individuals.
From royalty to renowned writers, the allure of gin has captivated a diverse array of famous personalities throughout history.
Gin drinkers, it’s safe to say you are in good company.
As we reflect on these iconic figures and their favourite tipples, why not also explore our own curated selection of exceptional gins?
Below are 7 famous gin drinkers along with a bit about their favourite tipples:
1. Queen Elisabeth II
Queen Elizabeth’s favourite drink was widely reported to be a Dubonnet Cocktail, consisting of one part gin to two parts Dubonnet and served with a couple of ice cubes and a slice of lemon. It is said that the Queen would typically enjoy this cocktail each day before lunch. It seems a love of gin ran in the family as the Queen’s mother was also a fan of the spirit.
In 2020, Buckingham Palace even released its own small-batch gin that was made using 12 botanicals from the palace gardens. This gin is available to buy at the Royal Collection Trust Shop.
Inspired by Queen Elizabeth II – William Hanson (etiquette expert) & Jordan North regularly drink Henley Gin & Dubonnet as part of their hilarious “Help, I Sexted My Boss” podcast.
2. Frank Sinatra
Although Frank Sinatra favoured Jack Daniels, one of his other go-to drinks was a classic Martini. Sinatra was said to like his martini very dry, it would be made with Beefeater gin with a “shadow” of vermouth and would be served with lots of ice and a twist of lemon.
This is widely reported from a range of sources including Victor Gower, who was head bartender at The American Bar where Frank would regularly drink. Sinatra liked his Martini very cold so his glass needed to be filled with ice.
3. Ian Fleming
Gin was also a firm favourite for author Ian Fleming (a Henley local for much of his life!). He was fond of dry martinis and he decided to include his love of liquor and cocktails in his writing.
In Ian Fleming’s Bond series, the first drink Bond orders is a Vesper Martini, a cocktail that uses 3 parts gin, 1 part vodka and a half measure of Kina Lillet (a French wine-based aperitif that is no longer produced).
Of course, Bond was known for requesting “A martini. Shaken, not stirred.” In the complete book collection, Bond orders a total of 35 martinis, 16 of which are gin-based.
4. John Travolta
In a “25 Things You Don’t Know About Me” magazine feature, John Travolta said, “We both love a gin martini. Although I only have one once a week”.
Apparently, Travolta has also been known for ordering Bombay Sapphire Martinis when at bars. This cocktail is made with 2 parts Bombay Sapphire gin, ¾ parts Dry Vermouth and a twist of lemon. Bombay Sapphire Martinis are stirred and served with ice to produce a smooth, citrus cocktail.
5. F. Scott Fitzgerald
Author of The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald had a passion for gin and it’s likely no coincidence that the Gin Rickey was the only cocktail mentioned in his novel. It’s believed that the Gin Rickey was the author’s favourite cocktail. It’s a simple drink that puts the spotlight on gin and is made using just 3 ingredients; gin, lime juice, and club soda.
According to Difford’s Guide, Fitzgerald favoured gin as he believed it could not be detected on his breath.
6. Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds likes to drink gin on the rocks or with a small amount of club soda, he likes to think he’s tried “almost every gin on the planet”.
The actor loves gin so much he actually bought a craft gin company in 2018. Reynolds is now the face of Aviation Gin and can often be seen featuring in their advertisements and promotional material.
7. Ginger Rogers
Although she didn’t drink, Famous Hollywood actress Ginger Rogers deserves a mention as she has a gin-based cocktail named after her.
The Ginger Rogers cocktail includes gin, ginger ale, ginger syrup, lemon juice, and mint leaves. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for summer evenings. This cocktail was made in Ginger Rogers’ honour and kept her personal preferences in mind as the icon’s go to drink was ginger ale.