Monkey 47 Dry Gin 500ml

Distillery Background and History

The story begins in the 1950s, when Wing Commander Montgomery “Monty” Collins of the RAF settled in the Black Forest of Germany and opened a guesthouse named “Zum Wilden Affen” (The Wild Monkey). He experimented with gin using botanicals from the region. Decades later, in 2006, Alexander Stein stumbled on this legend and partnered with distiller Christoph Keller to resurrect the recipe. Together they developed what is now known as Monkey 47. 

Producer & Production Philosophy

Monkey 47 is produced by the Black Forest Distillers in Germany. Their philosophy emphasizes handpicked regional botanicals, craftsmanship, and restraint: botanicals are steeped, distilled, and aged in earthenware before blending with soft Black Forest spring water. They strive for balance, letting the botanicals’ nuances shine without overpowering juniper. 

Botanicals & Botanical Philosophy

The “47” refers to the 47 botanicals used in the recipe. Among the selection are local elements like lingonberries and spruce shoots, in addition to more classic gin botanicals like juniper, citrus peels, angelica, coriander, and others. 

Distillation & After Treatment

Some botanicals are macerated (steeped) for 36 hours, while others are vapor-infused. After distillation, the gin is rested for about 3 months in earthenware vessels before being blended and bottled. 

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Bright citrus zest, forest herbs, juniper, subtle floral and berry notes (lingonberry)

• Palate: Complex layering of juniper, spice, herbs, citrus, forest floor tones, slight earthiness

• Finish: Long, slightly dry, with lingering herbal, woody and subtle berry character

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, oysters, grilled shellfish, herbal salads, or dishes with citrus or herb sauces. It’s also good with light desserts (citrus or berry based).

Serving Methods and Temperatures

Serve neat, over a large ice cube, or in a premium Gin & Tonic (tonic water with a citrus twist). Use a Copa de Balón or tulip gin glass to capture aromatics. Serving temperature around 8-12 °C is ideal for G&T, a bit warmer for neat sipping.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, Monkey 47 is stable. Store upright in a cool, dark place. There is no further aging benefit in the bottle.

Grain Type & Base Spirit

Neutral grain spirit (typical for gin) — details of the grain mash are proprietary.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

47 % ABV