12 Types of Gin & The Difference Between Them

Ready to embark on a flavourful journey to discover different types of gin? Jump aboard, friend! Cherished by cocktail enthusiasts around the globe, this clear spirit comes in various types, each with its own captivating history and unique taste.  

From the iconic London dry to the intriguing Japanese gin, we’re sharing everything you need to know about the origins and flavour profiles of each type of gin, as well as tasty food pairings that go with each kind. Whether you’re a seasoned gin aficionado or a curious beginner, let’s raise our glasses to the fascinating realm of gin and its wide-ranging possibilities. 

1. London dry gin

London dry gin, the stalwart of the gin world, owes its distinct character to a straightforward and carefully honed production process. Crafted through meticulous distillation, it begins with a neutral grain spirit, which serves as a blank canvas.  

A precisely balanced blend of botanicals is introduced during distillation, ensuring a harmonious infusion of flavours. Crucially, the hallmark of London dry gin is that no artificial flavours or colours can be added after this process, preserving its purity. 

Originating in England, this classic gin style gained fame during the 18th century in the bustling streets of London. It played a pivotal role in shaping the global appreciation of gin and laid the foundation for the contemporary gin landscape. 

London dry gin is renowned for its crisp, juniper-forward taste, characterised by vibrant hints of citrus and subtle herbal notes. It’s an exceptionally clean and versatile spirit, making it the go-to choice for an array of cocktails, from timeless classics to modern clinkers.  

What sets London dry gin apart is its unwavering commitment to juniper. Compared to other gin styles, it boasts a stronger juniper flavour, emphasising the essence of this iconic botanical. It is also typically drier, leaning heavily into botanical infusions. 

Interestingly, despite its name, London dry gin can be produced anywhere. This flexibility allows distilleries worldwide to create their own interpretations while staying true to the core principles of this timeless style. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A classic Gin Martini with a perfectly grilled steak 
• A Gin and Tonic with a medley of vegetable skewers 
• A Negroni with freshly baked lemon bars for a sweet finale 

Read next: What is Gin Made From: The Ori(gin) Story & More 

2. Plymouth gin

Plymouth gin, another time-honoured classic, is crafted with a distinct production process. This gin style, proudly originating from the maritime city of Plymouth in England, boasts a unique blend of botanicals.  

Its method begins with a neutral grain spirit, just like many other gins, but here’s where it diverges – Plymouth gin incorporates a higher proportion of root botanicals. This special touch results in a slightly sweeter and earthier profile compared to its counterparts. 

Steeped in history, this gin type traces its roots back to the early 19th century. It found its stride in the seafaring traditions of Plymouth and quickly gained renown. This storied past is part of what makes it the emblematic choice for gin enthusiasts. 

The flavour profile of Plymouth gin is characterised by a well-balanced and smooth taste. It marries pronounced herbal and citrus notes with a touch of sweetness, offering a versatile canvas for cocktail creativity. What sets it apart is this earthy sweetness.  

Unlike many other gins, Plymouth gin is geographically protected. It can only be produced in its namesake city. This geographical distinction ensures the gin’s unique characteristics are preserved. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends: 

• A French 75 with a Full English breakfast (eggs, bacon, sausages toast, etc.) 
• A Clover Club cocktail with mushroom linguini 
• A Southside cocktail with chocolate-mint mousse 

3. New American gin 

New American gin brings a fresh twist to the classic spirit. Crafted with innovation and a flair for botanical diversity, it’s a gin that embodies the spirit of experimentation and creativity. 

Emerging in the United States during the craft cocktail renaissance of the late 20th century, New American gin is a product of the American craft distilling movement. It proudly reflects the innovation and artisanal spirit of American distillers. 

The manufacturing process starts with the traditional neutral grain spirit base but takes a bold departure with its botanical selection. Beyond the juniper, it embraces a wide spectrum of botanicals, from exotic spices to floral elements and even unusual local ingredients. This diverse blend is carefully distilled to create a complex and dynamic flavour profile. 

New American gin often delivers a medley of flavours, from citrusy and floral notes to a hint of spice. It’s a harmonious blend that’s ideal for adventurous cocktail enthusiasts. Expect a spirit that dances on the palate. 

What sets New American gin apart is its creative approach to botanicals. This spirit style has gained popularity across the United States, with various distilleries putting their local spin on it. This means you can find regional variations showcasing unique botanicals or flavours. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Passionfruit Gin Cocktail with grilled shrimp skewers and a citrus glaze 
• A Gin & Juice cocktail with a Mediterranean mezze platter 
• A Strawberry Gin Cocktail with a fresh spinach and strawberry salad 

Gin cocktails for every season: Summer | Winter | Christmas 

4. Dry gin

Another classic in the world of spirits, dry gin is created through a meticulous process of distillation. It starts with a neutral grain spirit, which is then infused with an array of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, and citrus peel. The defining feature is its minimal sweetness, resulting from a near absence of added sugar or flavours after distillation. 

Originating in Holland in the 17th century, dry gin paved the way for a lot of the gin we enjoy today. It was cherished by the British Navy for its straightforward, non-sweetened profile. Its flavour profile is typically marked by a clean, juniper-forward taste with subtle hints of citrus and spice.  

Dry gin sets itself apart with its slightly milder juniper presence and a touch less focus on botanicals, resulting in a less complex taste. This simplicity makes it a versatile choice for various cocktails, allowing the botanicals to shine through. 

While dry gin is traditionally associated with England, distilleries around the world produce their variations. In America, for instance, you might find dry gins with a touch of local flair, like the addition of native botanicals. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:   

• A Gin Rickey with a grilled chicken salad 
• A Gin Mango Cocktail alongside a fresh Caprese salad 
• A Pornstar Martini served with a dish of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream  

5. Old Tom gin

Old Tom gin is made through a process similar to London dry gin, involving distillation with a mix of botanicals. It’s known for its slight sweetness, achieved through the addition of a small amount of sugar or sometimes honey after distillation. 

Originating in England during the 18th century, Old Tom gin has a history as rich as its flavour. It’s considered the bridge between the early Dutch gins and the London dry style, marking a crucial phase in gin evolution.  

FUN FACT! The name “Old Tom” likely comes from the wooden plaques shaped like a black cat (resembling a tomcat) that were mounted on the outside of some pubs during that era.  

What sets Old Tom gin apart is its sweetness, making it a bit more approachable and lending a unique twist to cocktails. With a taste profile falling between the London dry and the sweeter genever, Old Tom Gin offers a balanced blend of juniper, botanicals, and subtle sweetness. It’s a versatile choice for classic and contemporary cocktails. 

While historically associated with England, Old Tom gin is also produced in the United States, where distillers may incorporate regional botanicals. 

As for pairing options, The Mixer recommends: 

• A Pink Lady cocktail paired with grilled salmon and asparagus 
• A Gin Sour with a spinach and mushroom quiche 
• A Pegu Club cocktail alongside a slice of indulgent chocolate torte 

Best of British! Feel Like Royalty with these 10 Classic British Cocktails  

6. Navy strength gin

Navy strength gin, known for its robust character, shares a production process similar to other gins. It starts with distilling a neutral grain spirit, which is then infused with an array of botanicals. What sets it apart is its strength – it must clock in at a bold 57% ABV (alcohol by volume) or higher. 

Originating from the shores of Britain and Holland, navy strength gin has a storied history tied to the British Royal Navy. Its high alcohol content was essential to ensure that, if spilled on gunpowder, it would still ignite – a quality that safeguarded naval supplies. 

The flavour profile of navy strength gin is juniper-forward with an intense botanical presence, often displaying a bold and robust character that can stand up to the punch of higher-proof cocktails. 

Distinguishing itself from stalwarts like London dry gin, navy strength primarily differs in strength. While London dry gin is usually bottled at 40% ABV, navy strength gin packs a more potent punch, making it ideal for cocktails that require a bold gin backbone. 

Regions around the world produce navy strength gins, but the style remains fairly consistent, with distillers focusing on achieving the high proof required. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Singapore Sling with a classic chicken satay 
• A Ramos Gin Fizz with creamy spinach and artichoke dip and crisps
• An Azalea cocktail with a slice of baked lemon ricotta cheesecake 

7. Genever

Genever, often considered the forefather of modern gin, has a distinctive production process. It starts with a malt spirit base, akin to whiskey, infused with botanicals, including juniper and often malted barley. This creates a richer and maltier foundation. 

Originating in the Low Countries, Belgium, and the Netherlands, genever has deep historical roots dating back to the 16th century. It’s the bridge between gin and whiskey, as it’s closer in taste to the latter due to its malt spirit base. It’s often called the whiskey lover’s gin. 

Genever’s flavour profile is a unique blend of maltiness, juniper, and subtle botanicals. It has a smoother, rounder character compared to London dry gin, with a warm, grainy essence. While genever’s origins are Dutch and Belgian, different regions may put their own spin on the spirit, such as using local botanicals or tweaking the malt recipe. 

As for pairing options, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Greyhound Cocktail with spicy barbecue chicken wings 
• A Gin Gimlet with hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves 
• A White Lady cocktail alongside a slice of apple pie (warm from the oven!) 

Learn more: The Best Gin Cocktails Ever Invented 

8. Flavoured gin

Flavoured gin, a spirited twist on the classic, is made by infusing traditional gin with various botanicals, fruits, or herbs. This infusion process imparts a burst of unique flavours to the spirit, creating a delightful variation. 

Originating in England, the heartland of gin, this innovative style has quickly spread its wings to become a global favourite. Its history is marked by the desire to create exciting, new taste experiences. 

The general flavour profile of flavoured gin is a harmonious blend of juniper intertwined with the specific botanical or fruit infusion. Whether it’s a burst of citrus, the warmth of spices, or the sweetness of berries, each flavoured gin tells a distinct story. 

What sets flavoured gin apart from spirits like London dry gin is, of course, the added flavours. While London dry is juniper-forward, flavoured gins offer a playful array of tastes to explore. Differences between regions often revolve around the choice of botanicals and fruits. Local ingredients can significantly influence the flavour profile, creating regional variations. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends: 

• A French Rose cocktail with seared duck breast 
• A Bronx Cocktail with red pepper and goat cheese penne pasta 
• A French Pearl cocktail alongside a slice of luscious plum tart 

9. Japanese gin

Japanese gin, a rising star in the world of spirits, is crafted following the traditional gin-making process. It begins with a neutral base spirit, often made from rice or barley, which is then infused with a delicate selection of botanicals, including local ingredients like yuzu, cherry blossoms, and green tea. 

Originating in Japan, this gin style has taken root in the land of the rising sun over the past decade, gaining recognition for its precision and innovation. Japanese gin reflects the nation’s reverence for craftsmanship and nature. 

The flavour profile of Japanese gin is a harmonious blend of juniper, citrus, and floral notes, with a touch of herbal complexity. It’s known for its subtlety and balance, making it an elegant choice for cocktails. 

What sets Japanese gin apart is its meticulous attention to detail, often resulting in a softer, more refined taste. It’s the embodiment of Japanese craftsmanship in gin form. 

While Japanese gin is produced primarily in Japan, distillers may incorporate regional botanicals, giving each brand its own unique flavour signature. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Bee’s Knees cocktail with teriyaki-glazed chicken skewers 
• A Vesper Martini alongside vegetable tempura 
• A Last Word cocktail paired with mochi ice cream  

More Asian inspiration: The Best Shochu Cocktails & Guide to the Famous Japanese Spirit 

10. Reserve gin

Reserve gin, a distinguished member of the gin family, is crafted with a meticulous approach that involves ageing the spirit in wooden barrels, much like whiskey. This ageing process imparts a complexity and depth of flavour that sets it apart from its unaged counterparts. 

Originating in various regions, including the United States and the United Kingdom, reserve gin marries the world of gin and whiskey, resulting in a unique and refined spirit. 

The flavour profile of reserve gin is marked by a delicate balance of juniper, botanicals, and the nuanced influence of the ageing process. Expect notes of oak, vanilla, and sometimes a hint of smokiness. 

What differentiates reserve gin from other gins is its ageing process, which adds layers of complexity and a whiskey-like character. While traditional gins focus on freshness, reserve gins offer a more mature and contemplative taste experience. 

Differences between regions can be significant, with distillers often experimenting with various wood types for ageing, such as oak or chestnut, each contributing its own distinct flavour. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Reverse Martini with seared lamb chops 
• A Gin Bramble alongside a roasted vegetable tart 
• A Hugo Spritz paired with a slice of bourbon-infused pecan pie 

11. Sloe gin

Sloe gin is a delightful variation in the gin family, made by infusing gin with sloe berries, a small fruit related to the plum. The process involves patience, as the berries are left to macerate in the gin, imparting their rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavours. 

Originating in England, sloe gin has a deep-rooted history, often associated with countryside traditions and hedgerow foraging. Its production pays homage to the British countryside. 

The flavour profile of sloe gin is marked by a luscious, fruity sweetness with hints of tartness from the sloe berries. It’s a delightful departure from the usual botanical-forward gins, making it a versatile and charming choice. 

What sets sloe gin apart is, of course, the star ingredient: sloe berries. This addition creates a unique, fruit-forward gin experience that’s perfect for both cocktails and sipping neat. Differences between regions may involve variations in the types of sloe berries used, resulting in subtle flavour distinctions. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends:  

• A Sloe Gin Fizz with a serving of pan-seared trout 
• A Sloe Gin Negroni alongside a hearty vegetable risotto 
• A Sloe Gin Pink Lady paired with a slice of berry cobbler and clotted cream 

12. Rose gin

Rose gin, also known as pink gin, is a trendy and fragrant variation of the spirit created by infusing traditional gin with rose petals and botanicals. The gin-making process remains much the same, but the addition of rose petals lends it a distinct and delicate aroma. 

While its exact origin isn’t pinpointed, rose gin’s popularity has soared in recent years, capturing the essence of floral botanicals in a bottle. 

The flavour profile of rose gin is a harmonious blend of juniper and the subtle sweetness of rose petals, often complemented by hints of citrus or spice. It offers a refreshing and aromatic twist on traditional gin. Differences between regions may involve the specific rose varieties or additional botanicals incorporated, contributing to nuanced flavour profiles. 

As for pairings, The Mixer recommends: 

• A Red Dragon cocktail with succulent honey-glazed chicken 
• A Rose Gin & Tonic alongside a refreshing watermelon and feta salad 
• A Sushi Rice Negroni paired with a raspberry sorbet 

How to taste gin

Now that you know more about the most popular kinds of gin from around the world, here are a few pointers about tasting it:  

Choose the right glass. Start with the right glass; a stemmed tulip-shaped glass works well. It concentrates the aromas and allows you to appreciate the gin’s nuances. 

Examine the colour. While gin is typically clear, some barrel-aged or flavoured varieties may have a subtle tint. Hold it up to the light to check for any hints of colour. 

Swirl and observe. Give your glass a gentle swirl to release the aromas. Observe the way the gin coats the sides of the glass, known as the ‘legs’. This can provide insights into the gin’s viscosity. 

Inhale the aromas. Bring the glass to your nose and take a moment to inhale the aromas. Note any herbal, citrusy, or floral scents. Swirling the glass again can intensify the aroma. 

Sip slowly. Take a small sip and let it linger on your palate. Pay attention to the flavours that unfold, from juniper and botanical notes to any hints of citrus or spice.  

Consider the finish. The finish is how the flavours linger after you swallow. Is it short and clean or long and complex? This can tell you a lot about the gin’s quality. 

Experiment. Try your gin neat, with a drop or two of water, and with different mixers. This will help you appreciate how its flavours interact in various contexts. 

Take notes. Whether mental or written, jot down your impressions. It’s a great way to remember what you like and don’t like in different gins. 

Remember, tasting gin is a personal journey. There are no right or wrong ways to enjoy it. The key is to savour the experience and discover the flavours that inspire your taste buds the most.  

Types of gin glasses

Wondering which glasses to use when you serve gin? Here are a few of our go-to favourites:  

Highball glass. If you’re mixing up a drink like a classic Gin and Tonic, this tall and slender glass is your best friend. It accommodates plenty of ice and allows the bubbles from the tonic to dance, creating a refreshing sip. 

Copa de Balon. Perfect for gin and tonics that are more about savouring the aroma, this bulbous glass traps the fragrances, enhancing your tasting experience. It’s also great for gin cocktails with elaborate garnishes. 

Martini glass. When it’s time for a Classic Martini the iconic Martini glass is your choice. Its wide rim provides ample space for garnishes and allows you to savour the gin’s nuances. 

Rocks glass. If serving gin neat or with a single cube of ice, this short and stout glass is the way to go. It’s all about simplicity and enjoying the spirit’s character. 

Collins glass. When crafting longer cocktails like the Tom Collins or any other tall, refreshing gin drink, the Collins glass offers ample room for the mixers and garnishes, making it a practical choice. 

Tulip glass. This stemmed glass with a tulip-shaped bowl is excellent for neat sipping or for enjoying gin with a bit of water. It concentrates the aromas while offering an elegant touch to your experience. 

Remember, the right glass can enhance not only the visual appeal of your gin cocktail but also its aroma and taste. So, choose wisely, and enjoy your gin in style! 

There you have it – the short of the long of everything you need to know when you venture into the fascinating world of different types of gin. For more helpful insights like these, be sure to sign up for our newsletter which is crafted with care to bring you the tastiest news from around the cocktail web.