Gin
Gin is a neutral spirit flavored with botanicals, with juniper as the leading note. It is the base of many classics, from the martini to the negroni.
How to describe it to a guest
This is a dry gin with lots of juniper and citrus; perfect in a martini or with tonic.
Origin
It descends from Dutch genever and became popular in England from the 18th century.
Production
A neutral spirit is redistilled with juniper and other botanicals (citrus, coriander, angelica, roots) or flavored by maceration. Method and botanical selection define the style.
Flavor
Juniper, pine, citrus, spice and floral or herbal notes.
Styles
- London Dry
- A dry style; all flavor comes from distillation, with no flavoring added afterward.
- Old Tom
- Sweeter and rounder, historic in 19th-century cocktails.
- Navy Strength
- High proof, around 57% ABV.
- Contemporánea
- Juniper remains, but other botanicals take the lead; some Mexican gins use local botanicals.
How to serve it
- GlasswareHighball
- TemperatureVery cold in cocktails; plenty of ice in a highball.
- With tonic, use plenty of ice and a garnish that echoes its botanicals.
Pairings
- Tuna tostadas
- Fresh oysters
- Citrus salads
Reading the label
- London Dry
- A production method, not a place of origin; it can be made anywhere.
- Botánicos
- Plants, spices and fruit that flavor the gin.
Cocktails
Gin · Stirred
Dry Martini
Gin and dry vermouth, nothing more. Its simplicity makes it a precision drink: temperature, dilution and ratio are everything.
Gin · Shaken
French 75
A gin sour crowned with bubbles: festive, light and citrusy. A toast with more character than sparkling wine alone.
Gin · Shaken
Gimlet
Gin and sweetened lime: dry, sharp and aromatic. This is the fresh-lime version; the classic used lime cordial.
Gin · Shaken
Last Word
Four equal parts that make a herbal, tart and surprisingly balanced drink. A classic reborn with the craft cocktail revival.
Gin · Stirred
Negroni
Three equal parts holding each other up: juniper from the gin, bitterness from Campari and spiced sweetness from vermouth. It is Italy's definitive aperitivo and a template behind dozens of riffs.
Sources
- The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails
Updated October 20, 2026