12 Different Types of Gin to Know: A Comprehensive Guide for Cocktail Enthusiasts
Gin has long been a beloved spirit in the cocktail world. Whether it’s the crisp, refreshing bite of a Gin and Tonic or the elegance of a Martini, gin is a go-to for cocktail enthusiasts. But with so many different types of gin on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose for your next drink.
12 Different Types of Gin to Know
In this guide, we’ll explore 12 different types of gin and dive into their unique characteristics, histories, and the cocktails they shine in. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or a casual sipper, this article will help you understand the different styles and choose the right one for every occasion.
TL;DR: Gin comes in many varieties—each with its distinct flavor profile. From the traditional London Dry to the experimental New Western gins, there’s a type for every palate.
1. London Dry Gin: The Classic Choice
London Dry Gin is widely regarded as the archetype of gin. It’s known for its clean, juniper-forward taste and has become the gold standard for gin-based cocktails. If you’re new to gin or simply looking for a familiar flavor, London Dry Gin is your best starting point.
Flavor Profile
London Dry Gin is typically dry, with a strong juniper presence and hints of citrus, herbs, and spices. The botanicals in this gin are distilled directly into the spirit, resulting in a bold, refreshing taste.
Famous Cocktails
- Gin and Tonic: The quintessential gin cocktail, showcasing the crispness of London Dry Gin.
- Martini: A classic pairing, often served with dry vermouth and an olive or twist of lemon.
Best Brands
- Beefeater
- Tanqueray
- Bombay Sapphire
2. Plymouth Gin: The Maritime Classic
Plymouth Gin has a rich history rooted in the English port city of Plymouth. This style of gin is known for being slightly sweeter and more full-bodied than the traditional London Dry Gin, with a unique character that makes it a favorite among gin enthusiasts.
Flavor Profile
Plymouth Gin features a rich, smooth texture with pronounced notes of juniper, citrus, and a hint of sweetness. It has a slightly earthy finish due to the botanicals used in its production.
Famous Cocktails
- Plymouth Gin Martini: A smoother version of the classic Martini, highlighting Plymouth’s unique character.
- Gin and Tonic: Adds a slightly more mellow note to this classic combo.
Best Brands
- Plymouth Gin (the only brand allowed to label itself as Plymouth Gin)
- Black Friars Distillery (home of the original Plymouth Gin)
3. Old Tom Gin: A Sweet Twist on Tradition
Old Tom Gin is an old-fashioned style of gin that was particularly popular during the Gin Craze in the 18th century. Its hallmark feature is the added sweetness, which sets it apart from the drier gins we typically see today. If you enjoy cocktails with a smoother, sweeter taste, Old Tom Gin could be your perfect match.
Flavor Profile
Old Tom is characterized by its sweetness and slightly fuller body. It has a rounder, more complex flavor with hints of juniper, citrus, and a mild herbal sweetness.
Famous Cocktails
- Tom Collins: A refreshing cocktail made with Old Tom Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
- Gin Fizz: A bubbly, egg-white-based cocktail that pairs perfectly with Old Tom’s smooth sweetness.
Best Brands
- Hayman’s Old Tom Gin
- Ransom Old Tom Gin
4. Genever (or Jenever): The Dutch Origin
Genever, or Jenever, is the spirit from which gin originated. This style of gin, popular in the Netherlands and Belgium, is made from malted grains and features a malty, almost whiskey-like flavor. Its historical roots give it a distinct place in the gin world, making it an intriguing choice for those interested in gin’s origins.
Flavor Profile
Genever has a maltier, almost whiskey-like flavor. The juniper is present but not as dominant, and it often has a more earthy, sweet character due to the malted base.
Famous Cocktails
- Dutch Mule: A variation of the Moscow Mule, made with Genever instead of vodka.
- Genever Negroni: A spin on the classic Negroni with a maltier edge.
Best Brands
- Bols Genever
- Zuidam Dutch Courage
5. New Western Gin: Bold and Experimental
New Western Gin is a modern evolution in the gin world that prioritizes a more diverse array of botanicals, often pushing the boundaries of traditional gin flavors. These gins often feature floral or fruit-forward profiles, making them a great choice for cocktail lovers seeking something a little more innovative.
Flavor Profile
This style of gin often has a more floral, citrus-forward profile with less emphasis on the traditional juniper taste. It’s a versatile gin that’s suitable for experimentation in various cocktails.
Famous Cocktails
- Cucumber Gimlet: A refreshing cocktail that highlights the light, crisp flavors of New Western Gin.
- Lavender Gin Fizz: A floral twist on the classic Gin Fizz, perfect for summer.
Best Brands
- Hendrick’s Gin
- Aviation Gin
- The Botanist
6. Sloe Gin: A Berry-Infused Delight
Sloe Gin stands out from the crowd due to its distinctive flavor profile, which comes from steeping sloe berries (a type of wild plum) in gin. The resulting spirit is sweet, fruity, and perfect for those who prefer a more approachable gin.
Flavor Profile
Sloe Gin is sweet and fruity, with the tartness of the sloe berries balancing out the alcohol. It’s less dry than most gins, making it ideal for those who prefer a sweeter spirit.
Famous Cocktails
- Sloe Gin Fizz: A refreshing, fruity version of the Gin Fizz.
- Sloe Gin Sour: A sweet and sour cocktail that emphasizes the berry flavors.
Best Brands
- Plymouth Sloe Gin
- Sipsmith Sloe Gin
7. London Dry Gin vs. Plymouth Gin: A Detailed Comparison
Both London Dry and Plymouth Gin are iconic styles, but they offer distinct flavor profiles. In this section, we’ll break down how these two gins compare, helping you decide which one to use based on your personal preferences.
Flavor Differences
- London Dry: Juniper-forward, dry, and crisp.
- Plymouth: Sweeter, with a smooth, earthy finish.
Cocktail Preferences
- London Dry: Perfect for traditional cocktails like the Martini and Gin and Tonic.
- Plymouth: Adds a smooth, complex note to cocktails like the Gin Fizz and classic Martini.
8. Contemporary Gin Styles: Trendy and Unique Options
Contemporary gin styles have gained popularity in recent years as craft distillers continue to experiment with botanicals and flavors. These gins often showcase unique ingredients, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional styles. If you’re looking to step outside the box, contemporary gins could offer exactly what you’re after.
Flavor Profile
Contemporary gins often feature creative flavor profiles, with more emphasis on fruit and floral notes, as well as lighter, less juniper-heavy flavors.
Famous Cocktails
- Pink Gin & Tonic: A trendy take on the classic, featuring a fruity, floral gin.
- Basil Smash: A fresh, herbal cocktail made with contemporary gin.
Best Brands
- Elephant Gin
- Monkey 47
9. Barrel-Aged Gin: Aged to Perfection
Barrel-aged gin takes inspiration from whiskey, offering a smoother, more complex flavor. The aging process in wooden barrels imparts rich, woody notes to the gin, making it an intriguing choice for those who love spirits with depth.
Flavor Profile
Barrel-aged gin combines the traditional botanicals with the rich, woody flavors of the barrel, creating a smooth, sophisticated drink with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
Famous Cocktails
- Barrel-Aged Gin Negroni: A richer version of the classic cocktail, thanks to the barrel-aged gin.
- Barrel-Aged Gin Old Fashioned: A unique twist on the whiskey-based Old Fashioned.
Best Brands
- St. George Spirits Barrel-Aged Gin
- Oxley Gin
10. Pink Gin: A Colorful Twist
Pink Gin has surged in popularity, thanks to its vibrant color and fruity flavors. Infused with fruits like strawberries or raspberries, this gin offers a sweet, playful alternative to traditional styles.
Flavor Profile
Pink gin tends to be sweeter and fruitier than traditional gin, with a light, refreshing taste perfect for those who enjoy a more vibrant drink.
Famous Cocktails
- Pink Gin & Tonic: A classic drink with a colorful twist.
- Pink Gin Martini: A fun and fruity version of the Martini.
Best Brands
- Gordon’s Pink Gin
- Beefeater Pink Gin
11. Organic Gin: Natural and Pure
Organic gin is crafted using only organic ingredients, making it a great option for those who are eco-conscious or prefer a cleaner, more natural taste. The production process focuses on high-quality, sustainable ingredients, offering a pure gin experience.
Flavor Profile
Organic gin tends to have a cleaner, more authentic taste, often with a balanced mix of juniper, citrus, and other botanicals.
Famous Cocktails
- Organic Gin & Tonic: A pure, refreshing way to enjoy organic gin.
- Organic Gin Martini: Clean and crisp, showcasing the botanicals of the organic gin.
Best Brands
- Greenall’s Organic Gin
- Organic London Dry Gin by Whole Foods Market
12. Flavored Gins: A Bold New Adventure
Flavored gins offer a creative twist on the traditional gin experience by infusing a variety of fruits, herbs, and spices. These gins allow for experimentation and creativity in cocktails, making them perfect for those who like to try new and exciting flavors.
Flavor Profile
Flavored gins can range from berry-infused to herbal and spicy, with creative combinations designed to appeal to a wide range of palates.
Famous Cocktails
- Berry Gin & Tonic: A fruity variation of the classic.
- Herbal Gin Mule: A refreshing, herb-forward version of the Moscow Mule.
Best Brands
- Tanqueray Rangpur
- Beefeater Burrough’s Reserve
Exploring the World of Gin
The world of gin is vast, with a type for every taste. From the classic London Dry to the sweet complexity of Sloe Gin, each style brings something unique to the table. Understanding these 12 different types of gin will help you choose the right one for your next cocktail adventure. Whether you’re making a classic Martini or experimenting with a new flavored gin, there’s a gin out there for everyone.
So, which gin will you try next?
