Types of Gin

The mention of gin invariably calls to mind the famous gin and tonic — a cocktail originally devised as a malaria preventive by officials of the East India Company stationed in the Indian subcontinent. In fact, gin itself was initially produced by Dutch and Belgian monks as a medicinal liquor.

Gin is a grain-derived, typically clear, distilled alcoholic beverage primarily flavored with juniper berries. Beyond the classic form, manufacturers have created variations incorporating other botanicals — plant-derived additives like herbs, fruits, and spices — to achieve unique flavors and colors. Similar to beer and malt whiskey, barley is the most common base grain for gin production, although other grains such as corn, wheat, and rye are also used.

With such wide varieties, the alcohol by volume (ABV) in gin can range from 35% to 60% (70 to 140 proof in the U.S.).

Production and Classification of Gin

Although gin’s origins trace back to the medieval period, the earliest recorded mention of ‘jenever,’ a juniper-based spirit thought to be the precursor to modern gin, appears in documents from the 13th century. However, gin only began gaining widespread popularity in the 1600s, when English soldiers encountered it during the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648). This exposure led to its introduction and subsequent rise in popularity in England. 

The word “gin” originates from the Old English “genever,” the French “genièvre,” and the Dutch “jenever,” all of which trace back to the Latin term for juniper, juniperus.

While jenever is still produced, modern gin is no longer restricted to juniper alone. The classification of modern gins is not always clear, but one of the most notable factors in determining varieties is whether juniper berries serve as the primary flavoring agent. Other common factors that influence a gin’s profile include the method of production and country of origin.

List of the Different Varieties

Based on production, gin can be of 3 basic types:

1. Pot Distilled Gins: The original style, distilled from barley mesh and aged in wooden casks to have deeper flavors.
2. Column Distilled Gins: Distilled from a mesh that may contain grains, as well as other things used to distill spirits, like sugar cane, potatoes, and grapes. These have milder flavors than the first type.
3. Compound Gins: Blended varieties where neutral spirits and flavoring agents are added to the gin.

Here is a list of all the popular types of gins, along with their characteristics and flavor profiles:

Name	Country of Origin	Distillation	Characteristics & Flavor Profile
Genever	Netherlands	Pot Distilled	Malt-forward, sweet, featuring a herbal and slightly fruity character.
London Dry	United Kingdom	Column Distilled	Crisp, juniper-forward, with a dry finish; generally contains no added sugar, emphasizing botanical ingredients.
Plymouth	United Kingdom	Pot Distilled	Less dry than London Dry, with a more robust and earthy flavor; has a protected designation of origin, made in Plymouth.
Old Tom	United Kingdom	Pot Distilled	A slightly sweetened gin, often with a richer, fuller flavor profile, and hints of botanicals like coriander and anise.
Sloe Gin (Flavored Gin)	United Kingdom	Compound	A sweet, rich, fruity liqueur made by infusing gin with sloe berries (blackthorn).
Navy Strength Gin	United Kingdom	Pot Distilled	High-proof gin (typically over 57% ABV); robust juniper and spice flavors designed to withstand the rigors of sea travel.
Pink Gin	United Kingdom	Compound	A gin flavored with fruit extracts or infused with berries; typically has a sweet and fruity flavor profile, with a pink hue.

A more modern style called New Western, or Contemporary, was developed in Europe at the beginning of the 21st century. This style showcases varied flavor profiles with innovative botanicals like cucumber, lavender, or citrus.

In addition to these, countries such as Australia, Germany, and Japan produce gins with distinctive characteristics. For instance, the Australian brand Ink Gin is known for its innovative gins that change color when mixers are added. Japanese gins often feature flavors like cherry blossom and yuzu.

How to Drink the Different Types of Gin

Almost all types of gin can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Varieties true to the original juniper flavor, such as London Dry, Plymouth, and Old Tom, are preferred choices for a Gin and Tonic.

Additionally, there are many classic cocktails that can be made with gin, with some varieties being more suitable for certain recipes. For example, Genever is the main spirit in a Genever Sour, while London Dry is favored for popular gin cocktails, including the  Martini, Negroni, and Gin Fizz. The Tom Collins is a famous drink that traditionally uses the Old Tom variety.

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