Gin is one of the most popular and versatile spirits that aficionados can enjoy. Whether you like experimenting with it in fun cocktails or enjoy it just on the rocks, there are so many ways to drink it!
All types of gin are special in their own way. But what makes each of them unique? This article will outline the answer to this question below!
A Guide to the Different Gin Types and Why They’re Special
1 - Old Tom Gin
Old Tom gin is an interesting gin that has been around for quite some time. It's made from a combination of different grains that include barley and wheat. The grains are processed into a thick mash that soup makers prepare. Soup makers then add a mix of botanical ingredients to the mash. Old Tom gin is meant to have a sweeter taste than other types of gin. The taste is often referred to as being more rounded and fuller than other types of gin.
2 - London Dry Gin
This gin is what most people think of when they hear the word "gin". London dry gin is the type that most modern gin drinkers are familiar with. It's made from a mash of various grains that are distilled. Once distilled, the gin is mixed with various botanicals like juniper berries, angelica root, cassia bark, and cardamom. The result is a gin that has an intense flavour.
3 - Navy Strength Gin
Navy strength gin is a bit stronger than London dry gin. It's made with the same ingredients, but it goes through extra distillation. As a result, it has a higher proof. Navy strength gin is often considered more flavorful than other types of gin.
4 - Plymouth Gin
Plymouth gin is a unique type of gin that is made partially through a sugar-based process. This process creates a slightly sweeter gin that is sometimes also described as having a hint of fruit in the taste. It's made with a blend of botanicals and pure grain alcohol.
5 - Genever (Dutch Gin)
This is gin's Dutch cousin. Both are made up of a mash of grains that include barley, wheat, and rye. The botanicals tend to be different, though. Dutch gins are often described as being lighter on the palate with a more herbal character.
6 - Sloe Gin
Sloe gin is a unique type of gin that has a distinctly distinct taste. It's made with sloe berries, which are in the plum family. The berries are infused with the gin in order to produce a concoction that has a strong taste that includes a hint of cherry.
7 - Fruit Gin
Fruit gin has become increasingly popular in recent years. This type of gin is made with botanical ingredients that are infused with fruit. The fruit is often used to give the gin a sweet taste. Fruit gin can be made in two different ways. There are fruit-infused gins, meaning the fruit is infused during the distillation process. The other method, which produces a more intense flavour, is to add the fruit to the botanical mix after the initial distillation. Fruit-infused gins are generally referred to as "flavoured gin", while the second process is known as "post-distillation infusion".
Conclusion
So what's the difference between the types of gin? As you can see, there's quite a bit of variation when it comes to this spirit (and this isn't even a complete list!) Each type brings something new and unique to the party. But one thing is for certain — they're all an excellent way to start or finish your day.
If you're looking for a glass of good gin, come to Jim and Tonic! We are a gin distillery with three cocktail bars in London, as well as having a direct-to-consumer shop on our website where you can shop for cocktails to make at home!
