Introduction to Gin and its Fame

Gin is a complex and versatile spirit that has been enjoyed by generations all over the world.

Gin’s origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was used as a medicinal liquor.

By the 17th century, it had become a recreational drink in England, where its popularity skyrocketed during the “Gin Craze” era.

Today, gin holds a distinguished position in the world of spirits, primarily due to its unique taste profile that stems from the infusion of various botanicals, with juniper berries being the primary one.

It’s also the linchpin of many classic cocktails, from the dry Martini to the refreshing Gin and Tonic.

Understanding Types of Gin

As gin evolved, several distinct styles emerged, each with its own personality. Here are the three main types of gin you should know:

London Dry 

London Dry, the gold standard of gin, is distinguished by its bold, uncomplicated juniper flavor, which is frequently accompanied by a citrusy tang. 

Despite its name, it doesn’t need to be made in London.

New Western 

This style puts a modern twist on the traditional gin formula, often downplaying the juniper in favor of other botanicals. 

The result is a more experimental and diverse flavor profile.

Old Tom 

The “missing link” between London Dry and Dutch Genever, Old Tom is slightly sweeter and often considered more approachable for those new to gin.

Understanding these types of gin will help set the stage for a better appreciation of the different brand profiles.

Learn more about different types of Gin.

Famous Budget-Friendly Gin Brands

For those who are budget-conscious but still want to indulge in a good gin, here are some famous, affordable brands that don’t compromise on taste:

Beefeater

An iconic London Dry gin, Beefeater is known for its balanced flavor profile with strong juniper notes and hints of citrus and spice.

Gordon’s

Another classic London Dry, Gordon’s offers a crisp and juniper-forward taste at an unbeatable price point.

New Amsterdam

Representing the New Western style, New Amsterdam gin showcases a smoother, citrus-focused flavor profile, perfect for contemporary cocktails.

With this guide in hand, you’re now ready to embark on your gin-tasting journey, appreciating the nuances of this time-honored spirit.

Remember, the key to tasting gin properly is patience, curiosity, and, above all, enjoyment.

Cheers to your new-found gin expertise!

Explore more about gin’s fascinating journey from medicinal liquor to global sensation, the different types of gin that define its character, and the best budget-friendly brands to kickstart your tasting adventure.

Renowned Luxury Gin Brands

For those seeking the epitome of elegance in their gin experience, luxury brands offer unparalleled quality and sophistication. 

These brands are recognized for their extraordinary attention to detail, from the selection of exotic botanicals to the meticulous distillation processes. 

Here are a few distinguished names in the luxury gin market:

Monkey 47

A German gin that boasts a blend of 47 different botanicals, Monkey 47 offers a complex, vibrant palate. It’s an absolute must-try for gin enthusiasts.

No. 3 London Dry Gin

Crafted with a precise blend of three fruits and three spices, No. 3 delivers a classic gin experience, making it a luxurious staple for any gin lover’s collection.

Hendrick’s Orbium

A reimagining of the original Hendrick’s Gin, Orbium incorporates additional extracts of quinine, wormwood, and lotus blossom for a unique and exquisite flavor.

Gin Brands Ideal for Craft Cocktails

When it comes to crafting remarkable cocktails, the choice of gin can make a significant difference. 

The following brands have proven their versatility and compatibility with a variety of mixers, making them favorites among mixologists:

Tanqueray

Known for its distinctively fresh and smooth taste with a hint of citrus, Tanqueray is the go-to gin for many classic cocktail recipes.

Sipsmith

With a balanced juniper-forward flavor and complex botanical infusion, Sipsmith offers a rich, complex base for a range of craft cocktails.

Bombay Sapphire

Its ten carefully selected botanicals make Bombay Sapphire exceptionally mixable, and it shines in everything from a simple G&T to more complex concoctions.

Prominent Non-Alcoholic Gin Brands

For those who seek the unique flavors of gin without the alcohol, numerous non-alcoholic options have entered the market. These brands have expertly captured the essence of gin, providing a satisfying alternative for sober sippers:

Seedlip Spice 94

An aromatic blend of spices, citrus peels, and bark, Seedlip Spice 94 mimics the warm, spiced notes of traditional gin.

Monday Gin

Designed to recreate the experience of a premium gin, Monday Gin delivers a refreshing and nuanced profile, perfect for alcohol-free cocktails.

Ritual Zero Proof Gin Alternative

With botanicals like juniper and angelica root, Ritual Zero Proof replicates the flavor of gin without the alcohol, making it ideal for mocktails.

Understanding the range and versatility of gin—from luxury labels to non-alcoholic alternatives—is crucial for those who wish to truly master the art of gin tasting. 

May your exploration of these brands deepen your appreciation for this versatile spirit. 

Here’s to discovering your perfect gin experience!

Award-Winning Gin Brands

As gin tasting becomes more of an art form, numerous brands have been recognized for their exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profiles. 

These award-winning gins stand testament to the mastery of distillation and the art of botanical blending. 

Here are a few that have garnered acclaim on the world stage:

Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin

Hailing from Australia, this gin has won numerous awards for its unique blend of Mediterranean citrus, Asian spices, and local Australian botanicals.

Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin

Japan’s first gin made in Kyoto, Ki No Bi, has received global recognition for its innovative use of regional botanicals, offering a fresh, yuzu-forward flavor.

St. George Terroir Gin

This American gin is known for its earthy, forest-like profile, which was inspired by the wild beauty of California’s landscape.    

The Story Behind Famous Gin Brands

Gin isn’t just about the taste—it’s about the story. Understanding the history and unique production methods behind famous gin brands can deepen your appreciation of this spirit. Here are a few brands with fascinating tales:

Bombay Sapphire

Known for its distinctive blue bottle, Bombay Sapphire owes its unique flavor to a vapor infusion process that delicately extracts the aromatic oils from its 10 botanicals.

Beefeater

Established in the 1860s, Beefeater has remained true to its roots, continuing to use James Burrough’s original recipe. 

Their gin is steeped for 24 hours to extract maximum flavor from the botanicals.

Hendrick’s

This Scottish gin is famous for its infusion of rose and cucumber. 

Uniquely, Hendrick’s uses a combination of a Carter-Head and a Bennett still in their distillation process, contributing to its distinctive taste.

Famous Gin Brands by Region

The flavor profile of gin can be significantly influenced by its region of origin due to local ingredients and traditions. 

Here are some iconic regional brands:

Tanqueray (UK)

A classic London Dry gin, Tanqueray is known for its straightforward, juniper-forward flavor profile.

Malfy Gin Con Limone (Italy)

Our next stop is Italy with Malfy Gin Con Limone, a true Italian beauty that perfectly captures the Italian coastline’s spirit. 

Infused with Italian juniper and Sfusato lemon peels from the Amalfi Coast, this gin offers a fresh and zesty flavor that’s hard to resist.

G’Vine Floraison (France)

Finally, we land in France with G’Vine Floraison. 

This gin stands out from the crowd with its grape-based spirit and infusion of vine flowers. 

The result? A delicate, floral gin with a velvety smoothness that’s quintessentially French.

Aviation (USA)

Representing the New Western style, Aviation downplays juniper in favor of a more balanced blend of botanicals.

Roku (Japan)

Roku incorporates six Japanese botanicals, offering a gin experience that reflects the authenticity and tradition of its origin.

Príncipe de Los Apóstoles (Argentina)

We start our South American gin journey in Argentina with the elegant and unique Principe de Los Apostoles. 

It’s a gin that captures the essence of the Andean wilderness, with the major botanicals including Yerba Mate, pink grapefruit, peppermint, and eucalyptus. 

A sip of this gin feels like an adventure in the Argentinian forests.

Amázzoni Gin (Brazil)

Next stop: Brazil. Amázzoni Gin is not only famous for its distinct flavor but also for being Brazil’s first dedicated gin distillery. 

They use Amazonian botanicals like cocoa, Brazil nuts, and maxixe, a kind of Brazilian cucumber. 

It’s an exciting gin that will make you dance the samba!

Gin’ca (Peru)

No South American gin tour would be complete without visiting Peru, the home of Gin’ca. 

The Peruvian gin uses a total of seven botanicals, including Andean pink pepper and coriander, offering a balanced and fresh taste profile.

Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin (Australia)

One can’t mention Oceania without mentioning Australia’s Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin. 

With ingredients like Tasmanian pepperberry, lemon myrtle, and whole oranges, this gin creates a bright, fresh flavor that makes it a favorite worldwide.

Scapegrace Gold (New Zealand)

New Zealand’s Scapegrace Gold is an award-winning gin, scooping up the title of ‘Best London Dry Gin’ at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in 2018. 

With botanicals like cloves, lemon peel, and cardamom, this gin provides a warm and spicy flavor that is absolutely captivating.

Ink Gin (Australia)

Back in Australia, we have the eye-catching Ink Gin.

What makes this gin special is the infusion of butterfly pea flower, which gives it a bright blue color. 

But it’s not just about looks. The gin also tastes great with a mix of 13 organic botanicals, including a mix of traditional and Australian natives.

By exploring award-winning brands, understanding the stories behind famous labels, and appreciating the influence of regional factors, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of gin tasting.

Eco-friendly Famous Gin Brands

In an era where sustainability is more than just a buzzword, several gin brands have taken significant strides in championing eco-friendly practices.

From organic ingredients to energy-efficient production, these brands are crafting superb gin while caring for our planet. Here are a few leading the eco-friendly gin revolution:

Arbikie Highland Estate Gin

This Scottish brand takes farm-to-bottle to heart. All of their ingredients are grown on their own estate, and they even reinvest the byproducts of distillation into fertilizing their fields.

Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin

This German gin not only impresses with its complex blend of 47 botanicals but also with its commitment to preserving the Black Forest’s biodiversity.

Prairie Organic Gin

Hailing from Minnesota, USA, Prairie Organic not only uses organic corn for its base spirit but also ensures that every farmer who supplies them practices organic farming.

How to Choose the Right Gin Brand

Selecting the right gin can seem daunting, given the plethora of brands and styles. Here are some tips to help you choose a gin that suits your tastes, purpose, and budget:

Taste Preference

Consider the flavor profile you enjoy. If you like a strong, piney taste, opt for a classic London Dry. If you prefer a milder, more botanic-swirling flavor, a New Western style might be for you.

Purpose

If you plan on mixing cocktails, choose a versatile gin like Tanqueray or Beefeater. For sipping neat with a splash of tonic, consider a more complex, nuanced gin like Monkey 47.

Budget

Luxury brands like Hendrick’s or No. 3 London Dry Gin offer a premium experience but come with a higher price tag. Affordable yet quality options include Gordon’s or Bombay Sapphire.

Conclusion and Invitation to Share Personal Experiences

Embarking on the journey of gin tasting is not just about appreciating the spirit’s vast spectrum of flavors but also about making informed choices—whether it’s supporting eco-friendly brands or selecting a gin that best matches your preferences and needs.

Now, we’d love to hear from you.

What are your favorite gin brands? 

Have you tried any eco-friendly ones? 

How do you decide which gin to buy? 

Your insights will surely enrich our gin-loving community. Let’s continue this exploration of the wonderful world of gin together!

Remember, the art of tasting gin properly is an ongoing journey filled with discovery, enjoyment, and a deepening appreciation for this timeless spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions on The Art of Gin: Tasting, Brands, and Choices

What is the best way to taste gin?

The best way to taste gin is to use your senses of smell and taste together. Start by pouring a small amount of gin into a glass and gently swirling it around.

Take a deep inhale to smell the gin’s aroma before taking a small sip. Let the gin sit on your tongue for a moment before swallowing, then exhale through your nose.

It’s important to remember to taste the gin at room temperature without any mixers to get the true taste.

Should gin be tasted neat or with a mixer?

While gin can be enjoyed both neat and with a mixer, it’s best to taste gin neat when trying it for the first time.

This allows you to fully appreciate the unique flavors and botanicals in the gin. However, gin is often enjoyed with mixers like tonic water, which can complement and enhance its flavors​.

How do you drink gin for the first time? 

For first-time gin drinkers, it’s recommended to start with a high-quality gin and taste it neat.

This allows you to fully appreciate the gin’s unique flavor profile.

Once you’ve tasted it neat, you can then try it with different mixers to see how the flavors change.

Remember, the type of mixer and garnish can have a big impact on the gin’s flavor​.

What should I look for when tasting gin?

When tasting gin, look for the balance between the flavors of juniper berries (which should be the dominant flavor in most gins) and the other botanicals used.

You should also pay attention to the gin’s aroma, as it can give you a hint about the flavors you’ll taste.

Lastly, consider the gin’s finish—the taste that lingers in your mouth after swallowing.

What does gin taste like?

Gin has a complex flavor profile that can include notes of juniper, citrus, floral, spicy, and earthy.

The exact taste can vary widely between different gins, depending on the specific botanicals used in their production.

How do you describe the taste of gin? 

Describing the taste of gin can be challenging, as each gin can have a unique flavor profile. 

However, most gins will have a predominant flavor of juniper, along with other flavors from the botanicals used, such as citrus, floral, spicy, or earthy notes. 

Despite using some of the same botanicals, each gin can have a distinct taste​.

Why does gin taste like Christmas trees? 

The “Christmas tree” taste often associated with gin comes from juniper berries, the main botanical used in gin production. 

Juniper berries have a pine-like flavor, which is why gin can sometimes remind people of Christmas trees​.

Is gin supposed to taste bad? 

No, gin is not supposed to taste bad. However, like any spirit, gin is an acquired taste. 

It has a complex flavor profile that can be quite different from other spirits. If you’re new to gin, it might take some time for you to appreciate its unique flavors