Blood Monkey Original Irish Gin

Blood Monkey Irish Original Gin is an exquisite, contemporary spirit inspired by the 17th-century Genever style. Crafted from 100% malted Irish barley and triple distilled for silky smoothness, it bridges the worlds of gin and whiskey with remarkable finesse. The nose is bright and citrus-spiced, lifted by garden florals, while the palate unfolds with indulgent notes of smoky caramel, zesty lime leaf, warming Szechuan pepper, and fragrant Irish rosemary. With its velvety, lingering finish, this modern Irish gin is made to be savoured neat, on ice, or as the bold foundation for an extraordinary cocktail.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Fresh citrus and floral tones greet the nose, evolving into a layered palate of smoky malt, sweet caramel, and savoury spice. The finish is smooth, full-bodied, and long, with rosemary and pepper leaving a warming impression of both elegance and complexity.

Key Details

• Producer: Outcast Brands – Blood Monkey Gin
• Type: Contemporary Gin
• Region: County Cork, Ireland
• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 700ml
• Botanicals: Juniper, lime leaf, almond, orris root, Irish rosemary, chamomile, angelica root, liquorice, coriander seed, Szechuan pepper
• Signature Serve: Neat or over ice, or with tonic, rosemary sprig, and citrus garnish

Cocktail Pairings

Blood Monkey’s bold, savoury profile and whiskey-like depth make it wonderfully versatile in both classics and inventive serves:

• Gin & Tonic: Pair with a premium bitter orange tonic, garnished with rosemary and blood orange for a balanced, citrus-herbal serve.
• Martini: A dry martini showcases the gin’s silky malt base and fragrant botanicals with a lemon twist garnish.
• Negroni: Its robust herbal spice complements the bittersweet balance of Campari and vermouth.
• Gimlet: A refreshing twist where lime juice highlights the gin’s citrus and pepper notes.
• Arctic Monkey: A signature serve with fresh lemon and rosemary for a lively, savoury kick.
• Violet Monkey: A creative mix with Crème de Violette, Cointreau, and lavender syrup for a floral flourish.

Craftsmanship & Story

Launched in 2020 by Outcast Brands, Blood Monkey takes its name from daring 17th-century sea merchants — “blood monkeys” — who drilled into captains’ barrels to steal the finest spirits. This rebellious spirit lives on in a gin designed to be sipped neat, crafted from a whiskey-inspired base of malted Irish barley. By dialling up unique botanicals like lime leaf, Irish rosemary, and Szechuan pepper while softening traditional gin elements, Blood Monkey delivers a bold yet refined take on Irish gin, with a nod to history and a taste for innovation.

Special Features

Triple-distilled from 100% Irish malted barley, Blood Monkey stands apart with its rich, whiskey-like foundation. Its savoury, slightly smoky character makes it one of the few gins designed expressly for sipping neat, while its contemporary profile ensures it shines just as brightly in cocktails.

Recognition & Accolades

Blood Monkey has been recognised with multiple international awards for both taste and innovation:

• Gold – World Gin Awards, 2023 (Best Contemporary Irish Gin)
• Gold – Global Gin Masters, The Spirits Business, 2022
• Gold – Global Gin Masters, The Spirits Business, 2023 (Ultra-Premium)
• Silver – World Gin Awards, 2025
• 4.5/5 Stars – Difford’s Guide
• 87/100 Points – Tastings.com

In addition to these highlights, Blood Monkey has earned critical acclaim across global competitions, reinforcing its place as one of Ireland’s most innovative contemporary gins.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

With its smooth Genever-inspired character, striking maritime backstory, and award-winning quality, Blood Monkey Irish Original Gin is an inspired choice for gifting or for the discerning gin lover’s collection.