The Ultimate Guide to the 5 Varieties of Gin You Need to Try

Gin is one of the most versatile and widely-loved spirits in the world. With its wide range of flavors and complex profiles, gin offers something for everyone—from lovers of bold, juniper-forward botanicals to those who enjoy delicate floral or fruity notes. Over the years, gin has evolved into several distinct styles, each with its own unique flavor characteristics and history. Whether you're a gin connoisseur or a beginner, understanding the different types of gin can enhance your appreciation and help you choose the right gin for any occasion.

In this guide, we’ll explore the five main varieties of gin: London Dry Gin, Plymouth Gin, Genever/Dutch Gin, Old Tom Gin, and International Style Gin. We'll also give you tips on where to buy your favorite bottles from a reliable online liquor shop.

1. London Dry Gin

What is London Dry Gin?

When most people think of gin, London Dry Gin is probably the first type that comes to mind. It’s the most commonly found style of gin and has a clean, crisp flavor with a pronounced juniper profile. It is known for its dryness, meaning it has little to no sweetness, and it’s often flavored with a range of botanicals, such as coriander, angelica root, and citrus peel. The botanicals are added during the distillation process, typically in the second or third distillation, to create its distinctive aroma and flavor.

Popular Cocktails with London Dry Gin

London Dry Gin is the go-to spirit for classic cocktails like the gin and tonic, martinis, and the Aviation. The balance of botanical notes makes it ideal for these drinks, as it complements both sweet and savory ingredients.

Where to Buy London Dry Gin?

You can find a wide selection of London Dry Gins your local liquor shop nearby. Some of the most famous brands include Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, and Beefeater, each offering a slightly different take on this traditional style.

2. Plymouth Gin

What Makes Plymouth Gin Special?

Plymouth Gin is a unique type of gin that is only produced in Plymouth, England. Unlike London Dry Gin, It is less dry and has a softer, earthier flavor profile. It’s made with a blend of botanicals, including juniper, cardamom, and orange peel, but it’s the addition of root botanicals that gives Plymouth its distinctive, earthy notes. It is smoother and more rounded compared to the sharpness of London Dry Gin, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less intense gin experience.

Famous Plymouth Gin Cocktails

Plymouth Gin is a great choice for cocktails such as the Gimlet, Negroni, and Gin Fizz. The smoother profile allows the other ingredients in these drinks to shine, creating a well-balanced cocktail.

3. Genever/Dutch Gin

What is Genever/Dutch Gin?

Genever, also known as Dutch Gin, is the oldest style of gin and serves as the precursor to all modern gins. It originated in the Netherlands, where it was initially created as a medicinal remedy. Genever is made from malted grains, which gives it a much fuller body and a malty flavor that is often compared to whiskey. The use of malted barley or other grains in the distillation process makes Genever much richer in flavor compared to lighter, drier gins like London Dry.

How is Genever Different from Other Gins?

Genever has a distinctive flavor profile with a slightly sweet, malty taste and a smooth finish. It is usually enjoyed neat or chilled, rather than mixed into cocktails. Because of its richness, Genever can also be used as a base spirit in cocktails like the classic Dutch 75 or a variation of the Gin & Tonic.

4. Old Tom Gin

What is Old Tom Gin?

Old Tom Gin is a sweet gin style that dates back to the 18th century. It’s a more indulgent version, sitting somewhere between the dry London Dry Gin and the malty sweetness of Genever. Historically, It was often flavored with sugar or sweet botanicals to make it more palatable. This sweetness makes the perfect base for classic cocktails such as the Tom Collins, Martinez, and Gin Rickey.

Old Tom Gin: A Sweet Twist on Traditional Gin

Unlike the sharp dryness of London Dry Gin, It has a soft sweetness that appeals to those who enjoy a more rounded flavor profile. The sweetness isn’t overpowering, but it balances out the botanicals for a smoother finish. As this style has gained popularity in recent years, it’s becoming easier to find at liquor shops nearby.

5. International Style Gin

What is International Style Gin?

International Style Gin, or New American Style Gin, is a modern innovation in the world of gin. It departs from traditional juniper-heavy gin flavors and instead focuses on a broader range of botanicals and flavors. Distillers often add herbs, spices, fruits, and even flowers, such as cucumber or rose, to create unique, aromatic gin profiles. This new category of gin has gained a loyal following due to its experimental approach and diverse flavor profiles.

The Rise of New Gin Flavors

Hendrick’s Gin, one of the best-known International Style gins, is flavored with cucumber and rose, creating a sweet and floral profile that’s a departure from the typical juniper-forward taste. Mixologists love using International Style Gins in creative cocktails.

FAQs

What makes London Dry Gin different from other types of gin?

London Dry Gin is known for its dry, crisp taste and strong juniper flavor. It is typically flavored with a variety of botanicals during the second or third distillation, resulting in a clean and aromatic. 

What is the history of Plymouth Gin?

Plymouth Gin has been made exclusively in Plymouth, England, since 1793. It is known for its earthy and softer flavor compared to other gins, with less of a juniper-heavy profile. 

What is Genever/Dutch Gin, and how does it differ from other gins?

Genever, or Dutch Gin, is the original style of gin made with malt grains, which gives it a rich, malty flavor similar to whiskey. Unlike other gins, which use a mix of cereal grains, Genever is darker and richer in flavor, making it best enjoyed neat or on the rocks rather than mixed in cocktails.

Why is Old Tom Gin sweeter than other gins?

Old Tom Gin has a sweeter profile than London Dry Gin due to the addition of sugar or sweet botanicals during its distillation. It falls between the dryness of London Dry and the maltiness of Genever, and it was historically popular for cocktails.

What is "International Style Gin"?

International Style Gin, also known as New American Style Gin, is a modern variation that focuses on botanical flavors other than juniper. Distillers often use unique botanicals like cucumber, rose, or citrus to create distinct and innovative flavors.

Conclusion

The world of gin is rich with history, flavor, and variety. From the juniper-forward London Dry Gin to the maltier, whiskey-like Genever, each type brings something unique to the table. Plymouth Gin offers a distinctive earthy profile, while Old Tom Gin adds sweetness to classic cocktails. International Style Gins, such as Hendrick’s, are redefining what gin can be, introducing new, aromatic flavors to the spirits world. Whether you prefer dry, sweet, or botanical flavors, there's a gin for everyone to enjoy, and experimenting with different brands can lead to discovering your personal favorite. Visit ShopSK to explore a wide selection of premium gins and find the perfect one for your next cocktail adventure!