Gin 101: A Beginners Guide to the Botanical Spirit
Learn Gin Basics: History, Botanicals, Production, and Types Explained
Discover the essentials of gin—from its rich history and signature botanicals to how it’s made and the key styles to try. Perfect for beginners and gin lovers alike!
Gin is one of the world’s most popular and versatile spirits, loved for its unique blend of flavors derived from natural botanicals—especially juniper berries. Whether you’ve heard of London Dry, Old Tom, or New Western styles, understanding what makes gin special starts with learning about its history, production process, and signature ingredients.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down the essentials of gin: what it is, how it’s made, the key botanicals that give it its distinct taste, and the different styles you might come across. By the end, you’ll have a solid foundation to appreciate this botanical spirit, whether you’re exploring it for the first time or simply curious to learn more.
What is Gin
Gin is a popular distilled spirit made by infusing neutral alcohol with juniper berries and other botanicals. Known for its crisp, herbal flavor, gin has been a staple in bars and homes for centuries.
To legally qualify as gin, the spirit must feature juniper as the dominant ingredient. Distillers often add a variety of other botanicals—like coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, and spices—to shape the final flavor profile.
Unlike aged spirits such as whiskey or rum, gin is typically unaged. Its distinctive taste comes from how it's distilled and infused, not from time spent in a barrel.
There are several types of gin, including London Dry, Old Tom, and New Western. Each offers a unique balance of flavors, but all share the same botanical foundation that sets gin apart from other spirits.
A Brief History of Gin
Medicinal Roots in Europe
Gin’s story begins as early as the 11th century, when monks and early alchemists in Southern Europe began infusing distilled spirits with juniper berries. These herbal concoctions were used as medicinal remedies, believed to treat ailments like kidney and stomach issues. Juniper itself was valued for its antimicrobial properties, and adding it to alcohol helped preserve the mixture.
The Birth of Genever in the Netherlands
The drink we now know as gin evolved from genever, a malt-based spirit developed in the Netherlands during the 16th century. Genever combined a grain spirit base with botanicals and was originally created for medicinal use. By the early 1600s, genever had become a popular beverage in Dutch culture—not just medicine, but recreation.
Gin Comes to England
Gin arrived in England in the early 17th century, brought back by British soldiers who had served alongside Dutch forces during the Thirty Years’ War. Known for the term “Dutch Courage,” soldiers reportedly drank genever before battle. The English adapted the drink, simplifying both the name and the recipe. By the late 1600s, gin production had taken off in London.
The Gin Craze (18th Century)
In the 1700s, gin became wildly popular among the lower classes in England, leading to what historians call the “Gin Craze.” With little regulation, cheap homemade gin was produced in vast quantities, often containing dangerous additives. It was blamed for social problems, crime, and public health crises. The government eventually stepped in with a series of Gin Acts to restrict production and improve quality.
Regulation and the Rise of London Dry
Following the Gin Acts of the 18th century, distillation practices in England became more refined and strictly regulated. This paved the way for the development of higher-quality gin, leading to the rise of the London Dry style—crisp, clean, and distinctly juniper-forward.
In the 19th century, gin shed its rough reputation and gained popularity in more refined circles. British bartenders played a crucial role in this transformation, particularly during the golden age of cocktails in the late 1800s. London became a hub of mixology innovation, and gin—especially London Dry—emerged as a favorite base spirit for many early cocktails. The precision and clarity of the London Dry style made it ideal for mixing, and its popularity spread through the British Empire and across the Atlantic.
By the early 20th century, gin had cemented its status not only as a standalone spirit but as a foundational ingredient in classic cocktails like the Martini, the Gimlet, and the Tom Collins.
Gin’s Global Revival
After a quieter 20th century dominated by vodka and whiskey, gin experienced a major revival in the early 2000s. The craft distilling boom led to the rise of New Western or contemporary gins, where juniper plays a supporting role to more experimental botanicals like lavender, cucumber, or tea. Today, gin is once again a global favorite, celebrated for its versatility, heritage, and nearly endless flavor potential.
Types of Gin
Gin comes in several distinct styles, each with its own method of production and flavor profile. While all gin must be flavored predominantly with juniper, distillers build on that base in unique ways. Here's a look at the most popular types of gin, from the familiar to the historic:
London Dry Gin
The most popular and widely recognized style, London Dry gin sets the standard for classic gin flavor. It doesn’t need to be made in London, but it must follow strict rules: no artificial flavors or colorings, and all botanicals must be added during distillation.
Flavor profile:
Crisp and dry
Strong juniper presence
Citrus and spice notes
Popular examples:
Beefeater
Tanqueray
Bombay Sapphire
Sipsmith
New Western / Contemporary Gin
This modern style de-emphasizes juniper and highlights other botanicals like lavender, citrus, tea, or cucumber. It’s become hugely popular among craft distillers and adventurous drinkers.
Flavor profile:
More floral, citrusy, or herbal
Juniper takes a backseat
Creative and experimental
Popular examples:
Hendrick’s (cucumber and rose)
Aviation
Monkey 47
The Botanist
Old Tom Gin
Old Tom is a slightly sweeter and fuller-bodied gin that bridges the gap between London Dry and genever. It was the gin of choice in many 19th-century cocktails and is often used in historic recipes.
Flavor profile:
Lightly sweet
Rounded and malty
Less sharp than London Dry
Popular examples:
Hayman’s Old Tom
Ransom Old Tom
Tanqueray Old Tom (limited release)
Plymouth Gin
A geographically protected style, Plymouth Gin can only be made in Plymouth, England. It's softer and earthier than London Dry, with a slightly higher root content in its botanical mix.
Flavor profile:
Earthy and aromatic
Smooth with gentle citrus
Slightly less juniper-forward
Popular example:
Plymouth Gin (the only producer)
Navy Strength Gin
A high-proof style of gin, typically bottled around 57% ABV. Known for its bold and intense flavor, Navy Strength gin offers a stronger juniper presence and amplified botanical notes compared to standard gins.
Flavor profile:
Bold and robust juniper
Intense botanical flavors
Warming and complex due to higher alcohol content
Popular examples:
Plymouth Navy Strength
Sipsmith Navy Strength
Blackwoods Vintage Navy Strength
Genever
The original predecessor to modern gin, genever comes from the Netherlands and Belgium. It’s made from a malt wine base, giving it a richer, whiskey-like texture. Though less commonly found, it’s essential to gin’s history.
Flavor profile:
Malty and slightly sweet
Subtle juniper
Often aged in barrels
Popular examples:
Bols Genever
Boomsma
Diep 9
How Gin is Made
Gin production starts with a neutral spirit and transforms into a botanical-infused drink through a process that balances science and artistry. While methods vary by distiller, all gin must include juniper berries and derive its flavor primarily from natural botanicals. Here’s how it typically comes together:
1. Creating a Neutral Base Spirit
Most gin begins with a high-proof, neutral grain spirit—often made from wheat, barley, or corn. This base is similar to vodka: clean, flavorless, and ideal for carrying botanical flavors.
2. Selecting the Botanicals
Juniper berries are legally required and form the backbone of any gin. Distillers then choose a mix of other botanicals—commonly coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, orris root, cardamom, and more—to build a unique flavor profile. Some modern gins even include unexpected ingredients like tea, rose petals, or cucumber.
3. Infusing the Botanicals
There are three main methods for infusing gin with botanicals:
Steeping (Maceration): Botanicals are soaked in the base spirit before distillation. This extracts deeper, richer flavors.
Vapor Infusion: The base spirit is vaporized, and the vapor passes through a basket of botanicals suspended in the still, capturing lighter, more delicate notes.
Vacuum or Cold Distillation: A modern technique using lower temperatures to preserve subtle botanical flavors that might be lost with heat.
Many craft gins use a blend of these methods to fine-tune their taste.
4. Redistillation
Once the botanicals are infused, the spirit is redistilled—either in traditional copper pot stills or more modern column stills. The goal is to produce a clear, aromatic spirit that showcases the chosen botanicals.
5. Dilution and Bottling
After distillation, the gin is diluted with water to reach bottling strength, usually between 37.5% and 47% ABV (depending on the country). Some gins may rest before bottling, but most are not aged.
Gin is unique in the spirit world because its defining character comes from the botanical blend rather than aging. This flexibility is why gin offers such a wide range of styles and flavors—from sharp and classic to floral, fruity, or spicy.
How to Taste Gin (and What to Look For)
Tasting gin isn’t just about taking a quick sip — it’s more like going on a little flavor adventure. Whether you’re new to gin or a seasoned sipper, here’s a fun way to explore what makes each bottle special.
1. Look
Start by examining the gin’s appearance. Most gins are clear, but some specialty or aged gins might have a subtle tint. Notice the viscosity by swirling the gin gently—thicker legs (the droplets that form on the glass) can indicate a higher alcohol content or added sugars. It’s a subtle clue on what you’ll be tasting.
2. Smell
Bring the glass up and take a slow, deep sniff. Your nose will pick up the dominant aromas first—usually juniper, the hallmark of all gins. But don’t stop there! Search for hints of citrus, floral notes, herbs, or spice. A good gin tasting session is like exploring a botanical garden with every inhale.
3. Taste
Now, take a small sip and let it roll around your tongue. Notice how the flavors develop. Is that classic piney juniper front and center? Or maybe a warm citrusy coriander or earthy angelica? Some gins bring a peppery bite, while others are smooth and creamy. This is your chance to find what makes your favorite gin special.
4. Feel
Think about the mouthfeel—how the gin feels on your palate. Is it light and crisp or rich and silky? Pay attention to the warmth of the alcohol—does it feel balanced or overpowering? This texture plays a big role in how enjoyable a gin can be.
5. Finish
Finally, notice the finish—the flavors that linger after you swallow. Does the taste stick around pleasantly like a good conversation, or does it disappear quickly? A quality gin usually leaves a clean, refreshing finish with botanicals that gently fade.
Pro Tips for Tasting Gin
Use a tulip-shaped or copita glass to focus the aromas.
Always taste gin neat and at room temperature first, for the purest experience.
If the alcohol feels too strong, add a splash of water or a small ice cube to open up the flavors without diluting them too much.
Try tasting different gins side by side to train your palate and notice subtle differences.
How to Choose Your First (or Next) Bottle
Picking your first—or next—bottle of gin can feel overwhelming with so many styles and flavors out there. Here’s a simple guide to help you find a gin that suits your taste and budget:
Start with London Dry: This classic style is crisp, juniper-forward, and versatile. While some gin drinkers find it a bit polarizing, it’s still a great choice for beginners wanting to experience that iconic gin flavor.
Explore New Western or Contemporary Gins: These styles often highlight botanicals like citrus, floral, or spice and typically have a less intense juniper presence than classic London Dry, making them a great option if you want something a bit softer or more experimental.
Consider the Flavor Profile: Think about what flavors you enjoy and match them with the gin styles that highlight those notes:
Juniper-forward, crisp, and classic? Go for London Dry gin.
Citrus and bright, with lighter juniper? Try New Western or Contemporary gins.
Floral and aromatic? Look into Old Tom or some Navy Strength gins with added botanicals.
Spicy and herbal? Explore Plymouth or Botanical-forward craft gins.
Rich and slightly sweet? Some Barrel-aged gins offer warm, oaky flavors.
Check the ABV: Most gins range from 37.5% to 47% alcohol by volume. Higher ABV gins tend to be more intense but may also open up more flavor.
Read Reviews and Recommendations: Trusted gin reviews or guides can help you find well-regarded bottles in your price range.
Try Before You Buy: If possible, visit a bar or tasting event to sample different gins. It’s a fun way to discover your preferences without committing to a full bottle.
Remember, gin is about personal taste, so don’t be afraid to try something new. Each bottle tells a story through its botanicals—find the one that speaks to you!
What to Avoid
With so many gins on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. To help you make a smart choice, here are a few things to watch out for:
Overly sweet or flavored gins: Some gins are heavily sweetened or infused with strong flavors that can mask the classic botanical character. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to avoid gins that taste more like candy than spirit.
Very low ABV gins: Gins with alcohol content below 37.5% may lack depth and complexity, leading to a watery or flat taste.
Unfamiliar brands without reviews: While trying new brands is part of the fun, be cautious with completely unknown labels that don’t have any reliable feedback—quality can vary widely.
Bottles with misleading labels: Terms like “botanical blend” or “distilled essence” don’t always guarantee quality. Look for clear information on botanicals and distillation methods.
Cheap, mass-produced gins with little character: Sometimes a low price means corners were cut on ingredients or craftsmanship, resulting in a less enjoyable gin.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be on your way to finding a gin that truly suits your taste and gives you a great experience.
Now Go Drink Gin!
You’ve learned the basics—what gin is, its rich history, the types to try, how it’s made, and even how to taste it like a pro. Now it’s time for the best part: enjoying your own gin journey! Whether you’re sipping it neat, experimenting with botanicals, or simply appreciating the craft behind every bottle, gin offers endless discovery.
Don’t be afraid to explore different styles and brands. The world of gin is vast and full of surprises waiting to be found. So grab a glass, trust your taste buds, and cheers to your next favorite gin!
