Cadenhead's Old Raj Gin (Red)
Cadenhead's Old Raj Gin (Red Label) is the 46% ABV (92 proof) expression of Scotland's famous saffron gin, bottled in Campbeltown by Wm Cadenhead — Scotland's oldest independent bottler, founded 1842. A classic juniper-forward gin gets its signature pale-gold color and subtle spice from saffron added after distillation, too delicate to survive the still. The Red label is the lower-strength sibling of the 55% Blue. Order online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 46% (92 proof)
- Size: 750mL (US); 700mL UK release
- Signature: Saffron added post-distillation — golden hue, slight spiciness
- Botanicals: Juniper, coriander, Seville orange peel, liquorice, angelica, orris, cinnamon, cassia, nutmeg — plus saffron
- Bottler: Wm Cadenhead, Campbeltown, Scotland (bottling Old Raj since 1972; part of J&A Mitchell & Co.)
The Gin with Golden Saffron
Cadenhead's has bottled Old Raj in Campbeltown since 1972, and the saffron is the whole story: one of the world's costliest spices, added only after distillation because its delicacy would be destroyed in the still. It tints the gin its famous pale yellow and lends a gentle exotic spice. Distiller Stephanie Moreno's serving rule of thumb: the 46% Red is made for G&Ts and long drinks. Browse more gin and the Cadenhead's collection.
Tasting Notes
Juniper-led and classic in structure — pine, citrus peel, warm spice — with saffron's unmistakable golden warmth and a faint exotic lift in the finish.
How to Enjoy
A proper G&T: plenty of ice, premium tonic, lemon peel. The Red's 46% strength also suits long summer highballs and a Tom Collins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Old Raj Red and Blue?
They're the same gin at different strengths — Red is 46% ABV, Blue is 55% ABV. Same botanicals, same saffron, same Campbeltown bottling.
Why is Old Raj gin yellow?
The color comes from saffron, added after distillation. Saffron is too delicate to survive the still, so Cadenhead's adds it post-distillation, tinting the gin pale gold.
Who is Cadenhead's?
Wm Cadenhead, founded 1842, is Scotland's oldest independent bottler — based in Campbeltown since 1972 as part of J&A Mitchell & Co., also owners of Springbank and Glengyle distilleries.
Taste Scotland's golden gin — order Cadenhead's Old Raj Gin Red online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.