Gin has grown far beyond its origins as a medicinal spirit and has become a sophisticated and diverse category of liquor enjoyed by people around the world. From classic London Dry styles to newer, botanically infused craft varieties, the best gin is ultimately a matter of taste, occasion, and how it’s being used whether in cocktails, sipping neat, or paired with tonic. Understanding what makes a gin truly exceptional means looking at its ingredients, distillation process, flavor profile, and how it aligns with your personal preferences. Choosing the best gin depends on a balance of tradition, innovation, and how well it complements your favorite drinks.
Understanding What Makes a Gin ‘The Best’
Key Characteristics of High-Quality Gin
The best gin isn’t simply about high price tags or flashy packaging. It’s about how the spirit is crafted and what it delivers in terms of aroma, flavor, and versatility. Here are some factors that define a premium-quality gin:
- Botanical Balance: Gin is defined by its use of juniper, but great gin balances juniper with a blend of complementary botanicals like citrus peel, coriander, angelica root, cardamom, orlavender.
- Smoothness: A top-tier gin should be smooth enough to sip neat or over ice without an overpowering alcohol burn.
- Distillation Method: The quality of distillation affects purity and flavor. Many premium gins are distilled in small batches using copper pot stills.
- Versatility: A great gin should mix well in both classic and modern cocktails from martinis to gin and tonics to more complex concoctions.
Traditional vs. Modern Gin Styles
There are various styles of gin, and each has its own strengths. When evaluating what the best gin is, it’s helpful to know the difference between these styles:
- London Dry: The most recognized style. It’s crisp, dry, and juniper-forward, perfect for martinis or gin and tonics.
- Plymouth: A slightly earthier style that’s only made in Plymouth, England. It’s softer and less juniper-heavy than London Dry.
- Old Tom: A sweeter style of gin, historically used in 18th- and 19th-century cocktails. Ideal for classic recipes like the Tom Collins.
- Contemporary/Craft Gin: Modern gins often use unique botanicals such as cucumber, hibiscus, or tea leaves, appealing to adventurous drinkers.
- Navy Strength: A high-proof gin (usually around 57% ABV) that offers bold flavor and punchy alcohol content.
Top Gin Brands and Why They Stand Out
1. Tanqueray London Dry Gin
Tanqueray is a classic and consistently ranks among the best gins for its dependable quality. It’s juniper-forward, with a dry, crisp profile that mixes well with tonic or vermouth. The simplicity and clarity of its flavor make it a favorite among bartenders and traditionalists.
2. Bombay Sapphire
Known for its sleek blue bottle and delicate botanical blend, Bombay Sapphire is a lighter, more floral gin. It’s infused with ten botanicals, including grains of paradise and cubeb berries, giving it a nuanced profile. It’s especially popular with those who prefer a smoother gin with less intense juniper bite.
3. Hendrick’s Gin
Hendrick’s offers a unique and modern take on gin. Distilled in Scotland, it incorporates cucumber and rose petals, giving it a cool, refreshing flavor. It stands out in a gin and tonic or any cocktail where you want a bit more aromatic complexity.
4. Monkey 47
This German gin is considered a luxury option, with 47 botanicals used in its production. Monkey 47 is complex, aromatic, and potent. Its flavor is layered, making it ideal for sipping neat or in a minimalist cocktail that lets the gin shine.
5. Beefeater
Beefeater remains one of the most authentic London Dry gins available. It’s robust, juniper-heavy, and ideal for a classic gin martini. Its consistency and history make it a reliable choice for anyone who appreciates traditional gin flavors.
How to Choose the Best Gin for Your Taste
Consider Your Preferred Flavor Profile
Are you a fan of bold, juniper-heavy gins? Then London Dry or Navy Strength might be your style. Prefer something smoother and more aromatic? Try modern gins with floral or citrus botanicals. Knowing what you like whether dry, sweet, spicy, or herbal will guide you toward the best gin for your palate.
Match Your Gin to the Occasion
Different gins shine in different contexts. Here’s how to match gin to use:
- For Classic Cocktails: Use a traditional London Dry like Tanqueray or Beefeater.
- For Refreshing Summer Drinks: Choose a floral or cucumber-forward gin like Hendrick’s.
- For Sipping Neat: Opt for a craft or aged gin with complexity like Monkey 47.
- For Punchy Mixed Drinks: Try Navy Strength varieties for a bold, boozy experience.
Price vs. Quality
While there are expensive gins on the market, great gin doesn’t always need to be pricey. Many affordable gins deliver excellent quality. Beefeater and Bombay Sapphire, for example, are reasonably priced yet deliver reliable performance in cocktails. High-end gins like Monkey 47 or The Botanist are worth trying for special occasions or for those who want a top-shelf experience.
Gin Trends to Watch
Flavored and Infused Gins
The gin market has expanded to include flavored options such as blood orange, elderflower, and berry infusions. These gins are popular with newer drinkers and those who enjoy experimenting with creative cocktails.
Barrel-Aged Gins
Some distillers age gin in oak barrels, similar to whiskey. This process adds vanilla, spice, and wood tones to the spirit. Barrel-aged gin is a newer style gaining popularity among whiskey lovers and mixologists looking for depth and uniqueness.
Local Craft Gins
Artisanal gin producers have emerged globally, with each region offering unique botanicals and styles. From coastal seaweed-infused gins to mountain herb varieties, local gins often reflect the character of their place of origin.
How to Store and Serve Gin
Storage Tips
Gin should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Although it doesn’t age in the bottle like wine, prolonged exposure to light or heat can affect its flavor. Once opened, it’s best consumed within a year for optimal taste.
Best Serving Practices
Serve gin in a clean, dry glass. For gin and tonics, use a highball or balloon glass with plenty of ice. Garnishes such as lime, lemon, or cucumber can highlight the gin’s botanicals. For martinis, chill the gin beforehand and use quality vermouth for balance.
There is no single answer to the question of what is the best gin. The best gin for you depends on your taste preferences, the occasion, and how you intend to enjoy it. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional dry sharpness of Tanqueray, the floral elegance of Hendrick’s, or the complex sophistication of Monkey 47, the gin world offers a rich variety for every palate. By exploring different styles and understanding what each brand offers, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect bottle that fits your own definition of the best gin. Cheers to the journey of discovery, one sip at a time.