Drinking culture is evolving. For years, the options were simple: go all in with full-strength spirits or opt out completely with alcohol-free alternatives. But what if you want something in between? Something that lets you enjoy the moment without feeling like you’re making a trade-off?
That’s exactly where mid-strength spirits come in. They offer the best of both worlds—all the complexity and flavour of a full-strength drink, but at a lower ABV that keeps things balanced, smooth, and sessionable.
Let’s break it down.
What Actually Counts as a Mid-Strength Spirit?
A mid-strength spirit sits between 20-30% ABV, making it lighter than full-strength spirits (typically 40%+ ABV), yet still delivering the full flavour, complexity, and satisfaction of a proper drink.
If you’re used to ordering a G&T, a Negroni, or a classic Old Fashioned, a mid-strength spirit will feel the same, taste the same, and mix the same—but it’s designed for longer drinking occasions where you don’t want to overdo it too soon.
At 25% ABV, our London Dry Session Spirit® is a prime example of a mid-strength gin. It’s distilled just like a classic London Dry gin, packed with juniper, cardamom, coriander, and black pepper, but with a more sessionable twist.
Why Haven’t Mid-Strength Spirits Been a Thing Until Now?
The idea of mid-strength has been around for ages in beer and wine—session IPAs, lower-ABV lagers, and naturally lighter wines have been on the rise. But in spirits, it’s been strangely absent.
Why? Because traditionally, spirits were all about punchy strength. The higher the ABV, the more "premium" the product seemed. But now, drinking habits are shifting. People want to enjoy their drinks for longer, stay in control, and wake up feeling fresher.
That’s why mid-strength is gaining traction—because it finally offers a smarter way to drink.
Who Are Mid-Strength Spirits For?
You don’t have to be a mindful drinker to love mid-strength spirits—they fit into all sorts of drinking occasions where full-strength might be too much, but alcohol-free isn’t enough.
You might love mid-strength if...
🥂 You’re at a wedding or an all-day event – You want to keep drinking, but don’t want to be the first to call it a night.
🌞 You’re day drinking with friends – Sitting in the sun, sipping slowly, and actually remembering the whole afternoon.
🍸 You love cocktails but not the after-effects – A lighter Negroni or a more balanced G&T lets you enjoy your go-to drink, without the regret the next morning.
📅 You’re having a midweek drink but still have work tomorrow – A proper drink that feels like a treat, without the sluggish start the next day.
How Do You Drink a Mid-Strength Spirit?
Exactly like a full-strength spirit—because it’s crafted to be enjoyed the same way!
Try a mid-strength gin like London Dry Session Spirit in these easy serves:
- 🍊 Balanced G&T – 50ml mid-strength gin + 150ml tonic, plenty of ice, and an orange wedge.
- 🔥 Lighter Negroni – 30ml mid-strength gin, 30ml Campari, 30ml vermouth—stirred to perfection.
- 🍋 Citrus Spritz – 40ml mid-strength gin, 20ml elderflower, topped with soda & a lemon twist.
Unlike just pouring half a measure of full-strength gin, a mid-strength spirit keeps the balance and depth of flavour, without watering things down.
The Future of Drinking is in the Middle
Drinking is not just about strength—it’s about experience. Full-strength spirits will always have their place, and alcohol-free options work for some, but for everyone in between, mid-strength spirits offer something new.
They let you enjoy the night at your own pace, sip longer, and still feel like yourself in the morning.
So next time you’re pouring a drink, ask yourself: why not make it a Session?
