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Why oh why? The original, classy King's Ginger was always a firm favourite with family and friends. We are all absolutely gutted that it has been discontinued. The new version is a completely different drink and not a patch on the original. Wish Berry Bros had kept the original recipe - or just added this as a less alcoholic alternative in a prettier bottle. Just so glad our local Berrys had one last bottle of proper stuff "out back" - it's safely stored for a very special occasion.

I've been waiting with interest to see your review of the new version! Like others, I've only seen negative things online, but I've also only tasted the new bottling, not the old one, so I have no basis for comparison. It's good to see that, at four stars, you don't think the new bottling is entirely without merit, but I am sad not to have been able to try the more rounded and honeyed predecessor - I think the new one is a little harsh.

According to the manufacturer, Berry Brothers and Rudd, production has now shifted from Holland back to the UK, and - more significantly - the recipe has been substantially altered; the most immediately obvious alteration being a drop in ABV from 41% from 29%. The advertising copy on their website states that "consumer and trade feedback suggests this is a universally approved improvement" and points to a single award, but I've yet to see a customer review that gives it more than 1 star.