Era:  1947-1949
ABV:  40% Estimated
Volume:  75cl

We know that this bottle dates from between December 1947 and April 1949 because of the metallic seal so securely fastened to its top.  It bears the words "Republica Italiana" and thus imported to the Italian market at the very onset of the First Republic, under Alcide De Gasperi.  The seal features the Italia Turrita, or the national personification of Italy, in the form of the head of a mural-crowned woman.  This symbol was used on the seal until it was replaced in 1949 by the new symbol of the Republic, the Star.

This bottle is in superb condition for its age, its seal is intact and its level is high.

There is not a wealth of information surrounding A.R. Wilson & Son, but the bottle does lay claim to being 'the Original Dry Gin' and also as being Established in 1820.  Now, we know that it was in 1820 that the Cale Street distillery in Chelsea was established, only to be purchased in 1863 by James Burroughs, also known as the founder of Beefeater gin.

Who knew that 1820 was such a big year for the establishment of gin distilleries...?