What defines a Bath Tub Gin

Bath Tub Gin is a legendary spirit that traces its origins to the Prohibition era in the United States from 1920 to 1933. With commercial distilleries banned, enterprising individuals produced gin illegally at home, often using bathtubs, barrels, or kitchen vessels to infuse neutral grain alcohol with botanicals like juniper, citrus peel, and herbs. Known for its variable flavour and potency, Bath Tub Gin became a staple of speakeasies, the hidden bars of North America. Today, it inspires modern craft distillers who recreate its small-batch, artisanal style, honouring its clandestine heritage. From classic cocktails like the Gin Martini and Negroni to innovative contemporary drinks, Bath Tub Gin bridges history, creativity, and flavour, embodying the enduring allure of gin. Every prohibition creates an underground movement.

Bath Tub Gin is a historic and iconic spirit that emerged during the Prohibition era in the United States, spanning from 1920 to 1933. Following the ratification of the 18th Amendment in 1919, the manufacture, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were strictly prohibited, prompting enterprising individuals to produce gin illegally in their homes. Named for the improvised vessels often used in production, including bathtubs, barrels, and kitchen containers, Bath Tub Gin was typically made by diluting potent grain alcohol and steeping it with botanicals such as juniper berries, citrus peel, and assorted herbs. Unlike distilled gin, this method relied on infusion to create drinkable flavours, resulting in highly variable spirits ranging from smooth and aromatic to harsh and fiery.

Visit the Fossil Coast Drinks Shop

During Prohibition, Bath Tub Gin became a staple in speakeasies, the clandestine bars and nightclubs of North America, where entry often required a whispered password. Its accessibility, versatility, and potent character cemented its place in American cocktail culture. Today, Bath Tub Gin continues to influence modern craft distilling, inspiring small-batch, artisanal gins with innovative botanical blends, barrel-aging techniques, and flavour profiles that honour its clandestine heritage.

Cocktail enthusiasts now enjoy Bath Tub Gin in classic drinks like the Gin Martini, Negroni, and Gin Fizz, as well as contemporary dessert-inspired or experimental cocktails. Its rich history, combined with its unique taste and cultural significance, makes Bath Tub Gin not only a distinctive spirit but a symbol of creativity, resilience, and the enduring allure of gin. From its clandestine Prohibition origins to modern craft interpretations, Bath Tub Gin bridges history, innovation, and flavour in every glass.