Smugglers Landing Gin, crafted in Kent, named England’s Best Matured Gin of 2025

Prince’s Golf Club in Sandwich Bay, Kent, has reason to toast: its exclusive Smugglers Landing Gin has been named Best in England in the Matured Gin category at the 2025 World Gin Awards. The limited-edition spirit, developed in partnership with a local distillery, has proven a hit both with club members and industry judges alike.

A Coastal-Inspired Creation

Smugglers Landing Gin was originally crafted to celebrate the opening of a new golf hole of the same name, which draws on the area’s smuggling heritage. The gin was aged in a Gamecock rum barrel previously used to mature the distiller’s award-winning premium rum—a decision that gave the spirit its distinctive depth and complexity.

Although the initial plan was to age the gin for just three months, its evolution in barrel led to a longer resting period, yielding a richer final product.

“This one turned out to be something really special,” said Jon Mills, Director at Canterbury Brewers and Distillers. “I’m not someone who usually drinks gin neat, but this one – with the richness from the rum barrel – I happily do. We made it exclusively for Prince’s, and it turns out we made the best in England.”

A Taste of the Links

The gin’s botanical blend was designed to echo the local landscape, featuring ingredients like sea buckthorn, which grows wild across the Prince’s course. Juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, orris root, lemon peel, ginger, and a touch of pepper round out the smooth and aromatic profile.

Although the gin isn’t widely distributed, it remains available for purchase through Prince’s Pro Shop—adding to its bespoke, members-only appeal.

Club Spirit, Bottled

“This is a wonderful result and a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and creativity,” said Rob McGuirk, General Manager at Prince’s Golf Club. “Our gin reflects the spirit of the club – distinctive, proudly local, and of the highest quality.”

The win caps off a successful year for the Canterbury distillery, which has earned recognition across gin, whisky, rum, and vodka categories. For Prince’s, the award further underscores its commitment to curating standout experiences that extend beyond the course.