London dry gin and regular gin may seem similar, but there is a key difference between the two: the level of sweetness. Regular gins are often sweetened after distillation using sugar or syrup, while London dry gins are not sweetened at all. This distinction gives London dry gin a less syrupy taste and instead provides a more pronounced and herbal bite.
London dry gin has a long-standing reputation for its dryness and is known for its crisp and clean flavor profile. It is made by distilling a neutral grain spirit with botanicals such as juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and citrus peel. These botanicals are carefully selected and added during the distillation process, infusing the spirit with their flavors and aromas. The result is a gin that is distinctly dry and aromatic, with a focus on the botanicals rather than the sweetness.
On the other hand, regular gin, also known as “wet” gin, often undergoes a post-distillation sweetening process. This can be done by adding sugar or syrup to the finished spirit, adjusting the sweetness to the desired level. The addition of sweetness can help balance out the flavors and make the gin more approachable to those who prefer a slightly sweeter taste. The sweetness can also enhance the flavors of certain botanicals, giving the gin a smoother and more rounded profile.
The choice between London dry gin and regular gin ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people enjoy the crisp and herbal bite of London dry gin, appreciating its dryness and the focus on botanical flavors. Others may prefer the added sweetness and smoother profile of regular gin, finding it more palatable and versatile in cocktails.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered various gins and have witnessed the different preferences people have when it comes to the sweetness level in their gin. Some customers specifically ask for London dry gin because they enjoy the dry and herbal characteristics it brings to their cocktails. Others prefer regular gin as they find it more enjoyable to sip on its own or mix in cocktails that require a touch of sweetness.
To summarize, the key difference between London dry gin and regular gin lies in the level of sweetness. London dry gin is not sweetened at all, resulting in a drier and more herbal taste. Regular gin, on the other hand, is often sweetened after distillation to achieve a desired level of sweetness. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile for cocktails or sipping.