The Diverse World of Gin

The Diverse World of Gin

A Guide to the Various Categories of Gin

Gin, a spirit celebrated for its versatility and depth, offers an array of flavours that cater to a wide range of palates. From the crisp and classic to the sweet and fruity, understanding the different categories of gin can enhance your drinking experience and broaden your horizons. This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the distinctive characteristics that define each gin category, inviting you to explore our curated selection of Gin at Gin Fling

London Dry Gin

London Dry Gin

The quintessence of gin, London Dry Gin, is known for its strict production standards and dominant juniper presence. Despite its name, it need not be produced in London but must adhere to rigorous distillation and flavouring standards. No artificial flavours or sweeteners may be added after distillation, ensuring a pure, crisp profile ideal for a timeless G&T. Explore our range of London Dry Gins, including classics Tanqueray and Beefeater, for a taste of tradition.

Plymouth Gin

Plymouth Gin

Unique to its namesake city in England, Plymouth Gin enjoys geographical protection similar to Champagne in France. It's slightly less dry than its London counterpart, with a fuller body and a more balanced botanical bouquet. Plymouth Gin is the sole producer, offering a smooth, nuanced spirit that's both versatile in cocktails and splendid on its own.

Old Tom Gin

Old Tom Gin

Bridging the gap between the juniper-forward London Dry and the sweet Dutch Genever, Old Tom Gin offers a lightly sweetened taste. This category, which played a pivotal role in classic cocktails, has seen a resurgence, with brand like Hayman's Old Tom leading the charge. Its subtle sweetness makes it perfect for nuanced cocktails.

Genever

Genever

As the forebear of today's gin, Genever/ Jenever (or Dutch Gin) boasts a maltier body due to its whiskey-like base. This category is divided into 'Oude' (old) and 'Jonge' (young) styles, reflecting differences in distillation and botanicals rather than aging. For those curious about gin's roots, Bols Genever offers a taste of history.

New American or International Style Gin

New American Style Gin

This category defies the traditional, allowing a broader palette of botanicals to lead, with juniper often taking a backseat. From floral to citrus, these gins, like Hendrick's with its cucumber and rose essence, showcase the innovative spirit of modern distillers.

Navy Strength Gin

Navy Strength Gin

With a potent proof traditionally over 57% ABV, Navy Strength Gin was born from the British Royal Navy's need for a spirit that wouldn't render gunpowder useless if spilled. Its robust flavour and high alcohol content, exemplified by Plymouth Navy Strength, make it a favourite among enthusiasts seeking intensity and depth.

Sloe Gin

Sloe Gin

A gin-based liqueur, Sloe Gin is infused with sloe berries and sugar, creating a sweet, tart, and fruity profile. Far from a traditional gin, it's a versatile addition to any bar, perfect for sipping or cocktail creativity. 6 O'Clock Sloe Gin offers a rich, balanced example of this delightful category.

Conclusion

The gin world is a tapestry of flavours, traditions, and innovations. From the storied streets of London to the lush landscapes of the Netherlands, each category offers a unique exploration of gin's multifaceted nature. At Gin Fling, we invite you to discover the gin that resonates with your palate, whether you're drawn to the classic, the avant-garde, or the sweetly unexpected. Explore our selection and embark on a journey through the rich, spirited world of gin.