When it comes to gin, there are several different styles to explore and enjoy. Each style has its own unique characteristics and history, making the world of gin incredibly diverse and fascinating. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring these styles firsthand and can provide a detailed answer to the question: What are the 7 styles of gin?
1. London Dry Gin: This is perhaps the most well-known style of gin. London Dry Gin is made through a process of distillation using a neutral grain spirit and botanicals. It is known for its dry and crisp flavor profile, with prominent notes of juniper and citrus. London Dry Gin does not have any added sweeteners or flavors after distillation, making it a popular choice for classic gin cocktails such as the Martini or Gin and Tonic.
2. Plymouth Gin: Originating from the historic city of Plymouth in England, this style of gin has its own unique characteristics. Plymouth Gin is made with a slightly different combination of botanicals compared to London Dry Gin, giving it a distinct flavor profile. It is known for being slightly sweeter and more aromatic, with a fuller and richer mouthfeel. This style of gin is perfect for sipping neat or enjoying in a Negroni cocktail.
3. Old Tom Gin: Old Tom Gin is a style that dates back to the 18th century. It is slightly sweeter than London Dry Gin, with a more pronounced botanical flavor. Old Tom Gin gets its name from the traditional method of serving, where the gin was dispensed from a wooden plaque shaped like a black cat (an “Old Tom”). This style of gin is perfect for classic cocktails like the Tom Collins or Martinez.
4. Genever (Holland Gin): Genever is a traditional Dutch style of gin, often considered the predecessor to modern gin. It is made from a malted grain distillate, giving it a malty and grainy flavor profile. Genever is typically aged in oak barrels, providing a smooth and complex character. This style of gin is great for sipping neat or enjoying in traditional Dutch cocktails like the Genever Sour.
5. Navy Strength Gin: Navy Strength Gin is a style of gin that gained popularity among sailors in the British Royal Navy. It is characterized by its high alcohol content, typically around 57-58% ABV. Navy Strength Gin is known for its bold and intense flavor, with a strong juniper presence and a robust botanical profile. This style of gin is often used in cocktails where its higher proof can stand up to other strong flavors.
6. New Western Dry Gin: This is a more recent style of gin that deviates from the traditional juniper-forward profile of London Dry Gin. New Western Dry Gins focus on highlighting a variety of botanical flavors, often with less emphasis on juniper. These gins can feature a wide range of botanicals, from floral and fruity to spicy and herbaceous. New Western Dry Gins offer a more contemporary and versatile approach to gin, allowing for a wider range of flavor combinations and cocktail possibilities.
7. Flavored Gin: Flavored gins have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a wide range of unique and exciting flavor options. These gins can be infused with a variety of fruits, herbs, spices, or even floral essences to create a distinct flavor profile. From strawberry and rhubarb to lavender and cardamom, the possibilities for flavored gin are endless. These gins can be enjoyed on their own or used to add a twist to classic cocktails.
Exploring the various styles of gin is a journey that can lead you to discover new flavors, aromas, and cocktail experiences. Whether you prefer the classic and timeless London Dry Gin or the bold and adventurous Navy Strength Gin, there is a gin style out there for everyone to enjoy. So grab a bottle, gather some friends, and embark on a gin-tasting adventure to discover your favorite style. Cheers!