You’re about to hear a story that will make your next Sri Lanka trip taste even better. A homegrown gin-Colombo No.7 Ration Navy Dry-has just been crowned the World’s Best Gin for 2025 at the Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles in Ningxia, China.
It didn’t just win big; it took home the Revelation Gin Trophy, the highest honour of the competition, after already securing Grand Gold. For travelers, that means you can sip a world champion right where it was born.
What exactly happened—and why it matters
The Spirits Selection by CMB is one of the world’s most respected spirits competitions, where experts blind-taste bottles from across the globe. This year, Colombo No.7 Navy Strength stood out for its bold flavour and unmistakable Sri Lankan character, claiming the top trophy among the Grand Gold winners.
The recognition puts Sri Lanka firmly on the premium gin map, right alongside award-winning producers from Japan and France.
Traveler take: you’ll start spotting this gin more often on craft cocktail lists across Colombo and beachside bars. If you love tasting local champions while you travel, this is one to chase.
What makes Colombo No.7 Navy Strength special?
This is a Navy Strength gin, traditionally bottled at around 57% ABV. That higher proof brings stronger aromas and a deeper, longer finish—perfect for cocktails that need backbone. Don’t worry, it’s still easy to enjoy: just add good tonic or a cube of ice to soften the edges.
The flavour is unmistakably Sri Lankan. The botanical mix includes true Ceylon cinnamon, curry leaves, ginger, coriander seed, angelica, liquorice, and juniper. Expect warm spice on the nose, bright citrus notes, and a savoury curry-leaf twist that lingers in a clean, dry finish. (You’ll notice how beautifully it plays with lime.)
Traveler take: if you’ve wandered through a spice market in Pettah or Kandy, you’ll recognise these aromas instantly.
A recipe with wartime roots
Colombo No.7’s story goes back to World War II, when it was created in Ceylon to supply British naval officers with gin despite wartime trade restrictions. The modern Navy Strength version honours that original recipe, celebrating a spirit once crafted for sailors who valued boldness in every pour. (It’s a great story to share when ordering your drink.)
How to drink it (easy wins you can order anywhere)
- Classic G&T: Fill your glass with ice, add premium tonic, and finish with a lime wedge. Ask for a fresh curry leaf or lemon twist on top if the bar has them—it highlights the gin’s herbal side.
- Gimlet: Navy gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. Crisp, zesty, and full of tropical brightness.
- Negroni: Equal parts Navy gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. The higher proof helps the gin’s flavour stand out.
Tip: If the 57% feels strong neat, add a splash of chilled water. It opens up the spice and brings out a smooth warmth.
Meet the distiller: Rockland, since 1924
Rockland Distilleries is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest family-owned producers, tracing its roots back to 1924. The company first made history crafting Ceylon Arrack, and over the decades expanded into rum and gin while staying true to traditional craftsmanship.
Today, Rockland is known for its balance of heritage and innovation, blending time-honoured distilling with modern sustainability practices. The success of Colombo No.7 Navy Strength is a proud milestone in that century-long journey.
Traveler take: if you love discovering local makers, ask bartenders about Rockland. They’ll gladly share stories about how this island distillery made global headlines.
Quick guide: where (and how) to find it on your trip
- In Colombo: Head to premium hotel bars and craft lounges; many feature Colombo No.7 Navy Strength on their menus. If not, ask—the bartenders will know it.
- On the coast or in the hills: Try cocktail bars in Galle, Hiriketiya, or Ella. A gin and tonic with sunset views or cool mountain air hits perfectly.
- Duty-free & shops: Colombo’s airport duty-free often stocks it, but availability changes. Check limits before you fly out if you plan to take a bottle home.
Tip: If you see a gin-tasting flight, include both London Dry and Navy Strength. You’ll instantly taste how the same botanicals transform at different strengths.
Flavor snapshot: what you’ll actually taste
- Aroma: Cinnamon, ginger, and bright juniper.
- Palate: Dry and peppery with curry-leaf savouriness, coriander zest, and gentle citrus.
- Finish: Smooth, warm, and lingering with spice.
If you usually drink light, citrusy gins, this one adds a confident Sri Lankan twist—spiced, structured, and completely unique.
Why this win is great news for travelers
This award shines a spotlight on Sri Lanka’s spice heritage and craftsmanship in a whole new way. You already come for the beaches, tea, and cinnamon. Now you can add world-class gin to your list of reasons to fall in love with the island.
It also inspires local bars to push creativity further, so expect to see more inventive Sri Lankan-style cocktails popping up during your visit.
Fast facts before you order
- Award: World’s Best Gin 2025 (Revelation Gin Trophy, Spirits Selection by CMB)
- Style: Navy Strength, around 57% ABV
- Botanicals: Juniper, angelica, liquorice, coriander, Ceylon cinnamon, curry leaves, and ginger
- Heritage: Based on a WWII-era recipe connected to Ceylon’s naval history
Final note
This is more than just a win for a bottle of gin—it’s a proud moment for Sri Lanka. From the island’s spice gardens to the world’s grandest spirits stage, Colombo No.7 Navy Strength proves that Sri Lankan craftsmanship belongs among the best. So when you raise a glass on your next trip, make it this one. Cheers to that.
