Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin

Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin is one of the world’s most acclaimed and complex gins, crafted with an extraordinary 47 botanicals. Inspired by the eccentric British Commander Montgomery Collins and distilled in Germany’s Black Forest, it fuses British tradition, Indian spices, and local flora into a truly unique expression. Bold, aromatic, and layered with citrus, spice, herbs, and forest botanicals, Monkey 47 has become a cult favourite among bartenders and gin connoisseurs alike.

Tasting Notes & Experience

On the nose, bright citrus and fresh juniper entwine with earthy herbs and spice. The palate bursts with tangy lemongrass, citrus zest, cardamom, and warming Black Forest botanicals, balanced by hints of liquorice root and star anise. Complex yet harmonious, the finish is crisp, racy, and enduring, with subtle spice and woodland depth.

Key Details

• Producer: Black Forest Distillers
• Type: London Dry Gin
• Region: Schwarzwald (Black Forest), Germany
• ABV: 47%
• Volume: 500ml
• Botanicals: 47 botanicals including juniper, spruce tips, lingonberries, elderflower, cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, coriander, cinnamon, bitter orange, lemon balm, and horopito
• Signature Serve: Premium tonic with grapefruit zest, fresh herbs, or a sprig of rosemary

Cocktail Pairings

Monkey 47’s depth and complexity makes it perfect for both classic cocktails and inventive serves. Try a crisp Monkey 47 Gin & Tonic with grapefruit zest, a smooth Martini, or a rich, herbal Negroni. Fruity serves such as the Gimlet or Bramble showcase its berry notes, while the Bee’s Knees and Gin Fizz bring out its citrus and spice.

Craftsmanship & Story

The story of Monkey 47 begins with British Commander Montgomery Collins, who settled in the Black Forest after WWII and created a gin infused with Indian spices, British tradition, and German botanicals. Rediscovered decades later, the recipe inspired Alexander Stein to found Black Forest Distillers. Today, Monkey 47 is distilled in small batches, using soft Black Forest spring water and 47 botanicals, a third of which are foraged locally. Its name honours both Collins’ beloved monkey, Max, and the astonishing number of ingredients that give the gin its unrivalled complexity.

Special Features

Monkey 47 stands apart as one of the most complex gins in the world, boasting an exceptional blend of botanicals sourced globally and from the Black Forest itself. Bottled at a robust 47% ABV, its intensity is matched by balance and finesse. The iconic apothecary-style bottle and cult reputation have cemented its place on the back bars of the world’s best cocktail establishments.

Recognition & Accolades

Monkey 47 has earned worldwide recognition as one of the finest gins ever produced:

• Gold – World Spirits Award, 2011
• Gold – International Wine & Spirits Competition, London
• Double Gold – Bartender Spirits Awards (Distiller’s Cut, 2024)
• Trophy – Michelangelo Awards, #1 Gin (2019)
• 93–95 Points – Guia Penin, CellarTracker & Falstaff
• #1 Trending Gin Brand – Drinks International, 2017

Its Distiller’s Cut editions continue to garner international acclaim, while Monkey 47 is regularly listed among the world’s best-selling and most influential gins.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Monkey 47 is a gin of remarkable complexity and prestige. Perfect for a luxurious G&T, an elegant Martini, or simply savoured neat, it makes an unforgettable gift for gin lovers and an essential addition to any premium collection.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.