Tanqueray 10 Vs Tanqueray

So you’re staring at the liquor store shelf. Two green bottles of Tanqueray stare back. One says “Tanqueray.” The other says “Tanqueray No. Ten.” It’s a gin showdown. You need answers, and I have them. Let’s settle this like adults—with a glass in hand.

The original Tanqueray is the classic. It’s the one your granddad drank, if your granddad was cool. It’s a London Dry gin, and it’s a beast of simplicity. Four botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica root, and licorice. That’s it. No fuss, no frills. Just a punch of piney, peppery goodness. It’s the blunt instrument of gin. A G&T made with it tastes like victory.

Now, Tanqueray No. Ten? It’s the fancy cousin. It shows up late to parties, but everyone perks up. It’s a “small batch” gin, distilled in a tiny copper pot named “Tiny Ten.” How cute is that? They use fresh citrus—whole grapefruits, oranges, and limes—along with chamomile and juniper. The result? A gin that’s smoother, fruitier, and almost dangerously drinkable. It’s like the original got a makeover and a spa day.

What’s the Big Difference?

The booze-proof, for starters. Regular Tanqueray is 47.3% ABV. No. Ten is also 47.3% ABV. So they’re equally strong. But the flavor profile is night and day. Regular Tanqueray hits you like a sledgehammer of juniper. No. Ten teases you with a soft, floral kiss of citrus. It’s like comparing a sturdy leather boot to a silk slipper. Both great. Just different jobs.

Here’s a quirky fact: The recipe for No. Ten is a well-kept secret. Only a handful of people know it. The distillers call it the “holy grail” of gin. Meanwhile, the original recipe has been around since 1830. It survived Prohibition in the US. It’s a survivor. No. Ten was born in 2000. It’s a Millennial gin, basically. One is a time traveler. The other is a modern artist.

Here’s another funny detail: The label. Look closely at the original Tanqueray. See the red seal? That’s the signature of Charles Tanqueray, who founded the brand. No. Ten’s label has a tiny “10” in a circle. It’s understated, like it doesn’t want to brag. But it totally does. It screams, “I’m fancy, drink me in a martini.” And the original scoffs, “Put me in a G&T with a lime wedge, you snob.”

Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your mood. Are you making a classic Gin and Tonic? Go with the original. It holds its own against tonic. It’s a fighter. Pair it with a spicy tonic and a slice of pink grapefruit. Boom. Instant summer. No. Ten? Use it for a martini. Shake it with ice, a whisper of dry vermouth, and a lemon twist. You’ll taste the citrus notes clear as a bell. It’s a sophisticated sip.

Budget is also a factor. The original is cheaper. You can pick up a bottle for about $22. No. Ten? Expect to pay $10–$15 more. You’re paying for those fresh fruits and the tiny copper still. Is it worth it? Absolutely, for a special occasion. But for a Tuesday night? Save the cash. Get the original.

Here’s a pro tip: Try them side-by-side in a blind taste test. It’s a hysterical party trick. Your friends will squint their eyes and say, “This one tastes… greener?” You’ll laugh. You’ll argue. You’ll drink more. It’s fun. And you’ll realize both gins are excellent—just different tools for the boozy toolbox.

The Weird, Wonderful History

Did you know Tanqueray was black market during Prohibition? It was smuggled into the US. The brand even faked its own closure to avoid taxes. They hid barrels in secret caves. And No. Ten? It was created by a master distiller named Tom Bishop. He wanted a gin that was less harsh for martinis. He succeeded. But here’s the kicker: No. Ten is actually more expensive to make. The fresh citrus must be peeled and juiced by hand. By hand! That’s why it costs more. You’re paying for labor. Literal elbow grease.

Another fun fact: The original Tanqueray is often called the “Benchmark Gin” by bartenders. It’s the one they judge all others against. No. Ten is the “Bottle of Confidence.” When you pull it out, people expect a good cocktail. No pressure. But the original? It’s a workhorse. It’s the gin that says, “I don’t need to impress you. I’m already legendary.”

So which is better? Neither. They’re like two siblings who love each other. The original is the wise, growly older brother. No. Ten is the charming, slightly younger one who brings you snacks. The best answer is: buy both. Use the original for everyday drinking. Save the No. Ten for when you want to feel like a mad scientist in a cocktail lab. Life is short. Drink good gin. Just don’t forget the dirty martini olives. Or the lemon twist. Or the ice. Actually, just pour it. Who needs ice? Not you. You’re a professional gin drinker now.

One last thing: If you see a bottle of Tanqueray Malacca? Run. That’s a discontinued unicorn. But that’s a story for another day. For now, raise a glass. Cheers to the green giants. The perfect gin war has no losers. Only happy livers. And maybe a slightly dehydrated one. But that’s why we have water. Tomorrow.