Monkey 47 Gin: The Ultimate Guide to Price, Cocktails & Health Facts
1. Introduction to Monkey 47 Gin
Monkey 47 is a premium German gin that has taken the spirits world by storm with its complex flavor profile and intriguing backstory. This Schwarzwald dry gin stands out for its:
- 47 unique botanicals (the most of any gin)
- 47% alcohol content (unusually high for gin)
- Aged in traditional casks for added complexity
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or curious about premium spirits, this guide covers everything from price and alcohol percentage to cocktails, calories, and potential health benefits.
2. The Fascinating History of Monkey 47
The Origins (1945-1951)
- Created by British Wing Commander Montgomery Collins after WWII
- Settled in Germany’s Black Forest (Schwarzwald)
- Founded a zoo and developed the original gin recipe
The Rediscovery (2006-Present)
- Recipe rediscovered by Alexander Stein
- First bottled in 2008
- Now produced by Black Forest Distillers
The Name Meaning
- “47” represents both the ABV (47%) and number of botanicals
- “Monkey” honors the founder’s pet monkey (Max)
3. Monkey 47 Alcohol Percentage & Key Specs
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 47% (High for gin) |
| Proof | 94 Proof |
| Calories (per 1.5 oz) | ~110 kcal |
| Sugar Content | 0g (Carb-free) |
| Aging Process | 3 months in traditional casks |
4. Monkey 47 Price: Why It’s a Premium Gin
As one of the most expensive gins, prices typically range:
- Standard 500ml Bottle: $50-$70 (US), ₹4,500-₹6,500 (India)
- Limited Editions: $100+ (US), ₹9,000+ (India)
- Gift Sets: $80-$120 with specialty glasses
Why So Expensive?
✔ Handcrafted in small batches
✔ 47 premium botanicals (many locally foraged)
✔ Unique aging process
✔ Premium packaging
5. Monkey 47’s Unique Flavors & 47 Botanicals
Key Botanicals Include:
- Juniper Berries (traditional base)
- Lingonberries (Black Forest specialty)
- Acacia flowers
- Black Forest honey
- Cardamom
- Cubeb pepper
- Pomelo peel
(Plus 40 other secret ingredients)
Flavor Profile:
- Nose: Complex herbal/floral bouquet
- Palate: Juniper forward with citrus and spice
- Finish: Remarkably smooth for 47% ABV
6. Best Monkey 47 Cocktails
1. Monkey 47 Gin & Tonic
- Ingredients: 50ml gin, premium tonic, grapefruit peel
- Glass: Large balloon glass with ice spheres
2. Black Forest Martini
- Ingredients: 60ml gin, 10ml kirsch (cherry liqueur)
- Garnish: Black cherry
3. Monkey Negroni
- Ingredients: Equal parts gin, Campari, vermouth
- Why It Works: Botanicals complement bitter notes
4. Schwarzwald Mule
- Ingredients: Gin, ginger beer, lime, lingonberry syrup
7. Health Benefits of Monkey 47 Gin
While alcohol should be consumed responsibly, gin may offer:
✅ Antioxidants from diverse botanicals
✅ Digestive aid from juniper and spices
✅ Low calorie (compared to sugary cocktails)
✅ Stress relief (when consumed moderately)
8. Monkey 47 vs. Other Premium Gins
| Feature | Monkey 47 | Hendrick’s | The Botanist |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABV | 47% | 41.4% | 46% |
| Botanicals | 47 | 11 | 22 |
| Base Spirit | Grain | Grain | Grain |
| Price Point | $$$$ | $$$ | $$$ |
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Monkey 47 so expensive?
💎 Rare botanicals, small batches, and aging process
Q: Can you drink Monkey 47 neat?
🥃 Yes! Its smoothness makes it sippable despite high ABV
Q: What makes it different from other gins?
🌿 47 botanicals create unmatched complexity
Q: Is it worth the price?
✨ For gin connoisseurs – absolutely
10. Key Takeaways
✔ 47% ABV from Germany’s Black Forest
✔ Most botanicals of any gin (47 ingredients)
✔ Perfect in a Gin & Tonic or sipped neat
✔ Premium price ($50-$70 per 500ml)
✔ Potential health benefits in moderation
