What’s the difference between gin and craft gin?

Answered by Marvin Richey

Craft differs from regular gin in several key aspects. Firstly, craft gins are produced in small batches, often by a small team or even a single person. This is in stark contrast to large gin companies, which mass-produce their on a much larger scale. The small-scale production of craft gin allows for more attention to detail and a greater level of control over the final product.

Another important distinction is the personal touch that craft gin makers bring to their creations. Unlike commercial gin companies, craft gin makers often have a face behind their product. They are passionate individuals who have handcrafted the gin themselves, pouring their creativity and expertise into every bottle. This personal involvement gives craft gin a distinct character and sets it apart from mass-produced gins that are often designed for a wider, more generic market.

Craft gin makers also tend to focus on using high-quality ingredients and traditional production methods. They often source botanicals from local or sustainable suppliers, ensuring a unique flavor profile that reflects the region or terroir. These botanicals are carefully selected and combined in small batches, allowing for experimentation and innovation. Craft gin makers may also use traditional distillation techniques, such as copper pot stills, which can result in a more nuanced and complex gin.

Furthermore, craft gin is often associated with a sense of artistry and creativity. Craft gin makers are known for pushing boundaries and creating unique flavor combinations. They may experiment with unusual botanicals or aging techniques, resulting in gins that are truly one-of-a-kind. This level of creativity and innovation is less common in mass-produced gins, which often prioritize consistency and familiarity.

Craft gin also tends to have a closer connection to its consumers. Craft distilleries often offer tours and tastings, allowing enthusiasts to learn about the gin-making process firsthand and engage with the makers. This direct interaction can create a sense of community and loyalty among craft gin enthusiasts.

The main differences between gin and craft gin lie in the production scale, personal touch, ingredient quality, production methods, creativity, and connection to consumers. Craft gin is a labor of love, crafted in small batches by passionate individuals who strive to create unique and exceptional spirits.