Rifters Royal Navy Strength Gin

Rifters Royal Navy Strength Gin is a bold, overproof expression of Central Otago craftsmanship, handcrafted in tiny batches beneath the rugged Southern Alps. Crowned World’s Best Navy Gin, this exceptional reserve release combines pristine glacier-fed water with an intensely aromatic botanical profile of pink grapefruit, bay leaf, liquorice root, and pink peppercorn. Powerful yet remarkably smooth, it delivers a refined navy-strength experience designed for serious gin enthusiasts and unforgettable cocktails.

Tasting Notes & Experience

An intense wave of vibrant grapefruit and candied orange zest bursts from the glass, beautifully underpinned by aromatic whispers of warm chai baking spices and bold alpine juniper. On the palate, this magnificent 57.7% Navy Strength spirit reveals an incredibly robust yet velvety mouthfeel. Waves of punchy pink peppercorn and deep, rooty undertones seamlessly intertwine with the subtle sweetness of liquorice root before a long, warming finish of bay leaf and peppery spice.

Key Details

• Distillery: Rifters
• Type: Navy Strength Gin
• Region: Arrowtown, New Zealand
• ABV: 57.7%
• Volume: 700ml
• Botanicals: Pink grapefruit, pink peppercorn, liquorice root, bay leaf, juniper and native botanicals
• Signature Serve: Premium Indian tonic with ice, a pink grapefruit slice and a fresh bay leaf

Cocktail Pairings

Rifters Royal Navy Strength Gin excels in bold, spirit-forward cocktails that showcase its remarkable intensity and citrus-spice complexity. The Overproof Gimlet delivers razor-sharp grapefruit freshness, while a Gunpowder Negroni layers bittersweet richness against punchy peppercorn warmth. An Anchor Martini highlights its silky texture and alpine botanicals, while a Stormy Pink Fizz offers vibrant refreshment. For deeper, luxurious serves, the Maritime Martinez and Spiced Navy Sour reveal its smooth, warming depth.

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in Arrowtown by Stuart Clark and Hamish Bourke, Rifters Gin began as a passion project inspired by Central Otago’s rugged alpine beauty and pioneering spirit. Every release is handcrafted using glacier-fed artesian water sourced from New Zealand’s Southern Alps and distilled in small batches with carefully selected botanicals. Sustainability remains central to the brand’s philosophy, from recycled glass bottles and water-based inks to its strict single-use plastic-free production practices.

Special Features

Rifters Royal Navy Strength Gin is the inaugural release in the distillery’s premium reserve selection and is crafted in an ultra-small 100-litre copper pot still. Bottled at a commanding 57.7% ABV, its powerful structure amplifies every botanical layer while maintaining remarkable balance and smoothness. Individually numbered bottles, recycled glass packaging, and globally awarded craftsmanship elevate this distinctive New Zealand navy-strength gin into a truly collectible spirit.

Recognition & Accolades

Rifters Royal Navy Strength Gin has already achieved remarkable global recognition, cementing its place among the world’s finest overproof gins.

• World's Best Navy Gin – 2025 World Gin Awards
• Gold – 2025 World Drinks Awards
• Best Navy Strength Gin in NZ – 2025 World Drinks Awards
• Bronze – 2024 New Zealand Spirits Awards

These prestigious accolades celebrate Rifters’ exceptional craftsmanship, alpine purity, and bold approach to modern New Zealand distilling.

Food Pairing

The intense 57.7% proof of this majestic navy-strength gin demands equally bold culinary companions. Its vibrant grapefruit and juniper backbone cuts effortlessly through rich pork belly, smoked salmon blinis, or spice-crusted tuna. Liquorice root and bay leaf undertones beautifully complement charcuterie boards layered with aged cheddar, salami, and cured meats, while the peppery warmth refreshes the palate between every indulgent bite.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

With its world-class accolades, individually numbered presentation, and commanding navy-strength character, Rifters Royal Gin makes a superb gift for collectors, cocktail enthusiasts, and lovers of premium New Zealand craft spirits.

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.