If you're used to Leopolds small batch gin, the Navy Strength is a complete surprise. Where the small batch gin soft citrus and garden herbs notes, the Navy Strength hits the nose with abundant amounts of juniper, which is no wonder given Leopolds doubled the juniper in the recipe. At 57% abv, this is a masterful distillation given how well balanced it is on the palate showing surprising little heat. Because it was stored next to gunpowder munitions on the naval warships, Navy Strength gin was distilled to a proof just high enough that if it spilled during battle, the ship's gunpowder would still ignite. In crafting the maritime spirit, Todd Leopold individually distilled each botanical, in order to control the final blend.