Gin lovers may not need to splash out on a premium bottle after a supermarket own-brand spirit was named the best in Britain.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Haysmith’s London Dry Gin has been crowned the UK’s top classic gin at the World Drinks Awards 2026.
The retailer’s gin was awarded the “Best in Country” title, outperforming a number of established premium brands including Beefeater, Hawkridge and Hawkstone.
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Aldi said it was the only UK supermarket to receive a country winner title for gin at this year’s awards, as reported by Need To Know.
The recognition comes as retailers continue to invest heavily in premium own-label alcohol ranges, with supermarkets increasingly competing directly with established branded products on both quality and value.
Priced at £16.49 for a 70cl bottle, Aldi said its award-winning gin costs up to 48% less than some branded competitors.
The London Dry Gin is described as offering notes of juniper and citrus alongside a lightly spiced finish.
Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: “We are thrilled that our Specially Selected Haysmith’s London Dry Gin has been recognised as the best in the country.
“To be the only supermarket awarded such a high honour for our gin is a real testament to the work of our supplier partners in creating a product that’s of phenomenal quality and amazing value for our customers.”
The award forms part of a broader success for Aldi’s spirits range at this year’s competition.
Its Specially Selected Haysmith’s Seville Orange & Persian Lime Gin and Rhubarb & Ginger Gin both secured silver medals in their respective categories.
The retailer said the results reinforce growing recognition for supermarket own-label spirits, which continue to gain market share as consumers seek premium products at lower price points.
Aldi’s Haysmith’s gin range is available in stores nationwide.
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