London Dry gin is a specific category of gin that is known for its distinctive flavor profile and production process. In order for a gin to be labeled as London Dry, it must adhere to certain regulations and requirements.
One of the key characteristics of London Dry gin is the use of natural botanicals during the production process. These botanicals, which can include juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and citrus peel, among others, are macerated in a high-proof neutral spirit. This maceration process allows the flavors and aromas of the botanicals to infuse into the spirit, giving the gin its unique taste.
Another important aspect of London Dry gin is the requirement for double distillation. After the botanicals have been macerated, the resulting mixture is distilled in a still. This initial distillation helps to extract the flavors and aromas from the botanicals, creating a concentrated liquid known as the “gin concentrate.” This concentrate is then diluted with water and distilled for a second time to achieve the desired alcohol content.
The use of natural botanicals and double distillation are not exclusive to London Dry gin, but what sets it apart is the prohibition of adding any artificial flavors or sweeteners after the distillation process. This means that the flavor of a London Dry gin solely comes from the botanicals used during maceration and distillation. The result is a gin with a clean, crisp taste and a pronounced juniper flavor.
London Dry gin also has specific requirements when it comes to the base spirit used. It must be a neutral spirit with a minimum strength of 96% ABV (alcohol by volume) and must be of agricultural origin, usually derived from grains such as wheat or barley. This ensures that the base spirit is clean and doesn't impart any unwanted flavors to the final product.
In addition to the production process, there are also labeling requirements for London Dry gin. It must be produced in traditional stills, with no added artificial colors or flavors. The label must clearly state that it is a London Dry gin and it must meet the legal definition set by the regulatory authorities in the country of production.
Personal Experience: I have had the opportunity to visit several distilleries in London and witness firsthand the production of London Dry gin. One of the things that stood out to me was the attention to detail and the emphasis on using high-quality botanicals. The distillers I spoke to were passionate about their craft and took great pride in creating a gin that truly represented the London Dry style.
What makes a gin a London Dry is the specific production process that includes the maceration of natural botanicals, double distillation, and the absence of any artificial flavors or sweeteners. These requirements result in a gin with a distinct flavor profile that is clean, crisp, and juniper-forward. London Dry gin is not just a style, but a reflection of the rich history and tradition of gin production in London.