Gin

Gin is a spirit with a distinctive juniper aroma, created by distilling a grain base with a blend of herbs, spices, and citrus peels. The juniper gives it its unmistakable taste – dry, refreshing, and slightly bitter.

Origin and history

Gin’s roots go back to 17th-century Netherlands, where Dr. Franciscus de La Boe (Dr. Sylvius) created it as a medicinal tonic to support kidney function and blood circulation. It reached England during the reign of King William III of Orange, where it became a national drink.

Styles of gin

Today, we know several styles – from the smooth Genever, the predecessor of modern gin, to the classic London Dry Gin with its clean, dry flavor. Other popular types include:

Dry Gin – dry, juniper-forward character, perfect for cocktails.
Old Tom Gin – a slightly sweeter style popular in the 19th century.
Sloe Gin – a liqueur-style gin infused with sloes.
Flavoured and Barrel-Aged Gins – experimental styles with notes of fruit, flowers, or vanilla.
Non-Alcoholic Gin – a herbal alternative without alcohol.

How to drink gin

Gin is incredibly versatile – it tastes great neat, with tonic, or as part of classic cocktails such as Gin & Tonic or Negroni. Properly served with ice and citrus, it reveals all its layers of aroma and flavor.