Britain’s Longest-Running Soap Opera ‘Coronation Street’ Now Has Its Own Gin

Made in collaboration with No. 186 Gin, Wonky Duck Old Tom Gin pays tribute to “Coronation Street’s” beloved hair-roller-wearing character Hilda Ogden. (Photo: No. 186 Gin)

Fans of “Coronation Street,” Britain’s longest-running soap opera since its 1960 debut, can now raise a glass to one of the show’s most beloved characters with a new gin inspired by Hilda Ogden.

Teaming up with No. 186 Gin, the legendary soap introduced a bespoke gin paying tribute to the popular character portrayed by the late Jean Alexander from 1964 to 1987, reported Digital Spy.

“It’s been a labour of love creating this beautiful, unique gin for Corrie,” No. 186 Gin’s Lynsey Postlethwaite shared, per the report.

“We know Hilda liked a port and lemon in the Rovers but we’re sure if it was around back then she’d have ordered a Wonky Duck and tonic, the hints of honey and warm currants would be right up her street!”

Alexander is seen dressed as Hilda while holding a photo of Bernard Youens, who played her character’s husband Stan until his death in 1984. (Photo: PA)

Wonky Duck Old Tom Gin draws inspiration from the painted ducks on the iconic mural in No. 13, the apartment where Hilda entertained viewers with her amusing conflicts with her husband Stan during the show’s peak popularity. Hilda, known for her perennially curler-clad hair hidden beneath a scarf, remains an enduring symbol of the show even after almost four decades since she starred in it, per Digital Spy.

To capture Hilda’s spirit, No. 186 Gin incorporated the flavors of Manchester’s beloved Eccles cake, alongside hints of currants, raisins, warm spice and orange zest. Additionally, the gin is gently sweetened with honey in classic Old Tom fashion.

The spirit rests at an ABV of 37.5%, making it a few percentages shy of the standard 40%-ABV gins we see here in the U.S.

Wonky Duck Old Tom Gin can now be purchased for £33.95 ($44.38) per 70cl bottle from Master of Malt.

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