What are the different types of gin?
French Gin
French gin represents a new generation of spirits that blends British tradition with French refinement. French gins like June, G'Vine, and Nouaison offer gins with unique aromatic profiles, incorporating botanicals such as vetiver, sandalwood, ginger, juniper berry, and, of course, vine blossom. This artisanal French gin stands out for its elegance and creativity, offering a premium alternative to traditional productions.
London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin represents the most traditional and popular style. Characterized by its purity and dry taste, it is distinguished by the absence of added sweeteners after distillation. The botanicals are infused directly during the distillation process, creating a clean aromatic profile dominated by juniper.
Old Tom Gin
Milder than London Dry, Old Tom Gin was the predominant style in the 18th century. Slightly sweet, it offers a perfect balance between tradition and modernity, ideal for classic cocktails like the Tom Collins or the Martinez.
Plymouth Gin
Originating from Plymouth in England, this gin benefits from a protected designation of origin. Smoother and less dry than London Dry, it has distinctive earthy notes and a slightly richer texture.
handcrafted and contemporary gin
Modern distilleries are pushing traditional boundaries by creating gins with innovative flavor profiles. These contemporary creations explore exotic botanicals and cutting-edge distillation techniques.
How to choose your gin?
Choosing a gin, whether French or international, depends primarily on your personal taste preferences and how you intend to use it. To explore the world of French gin, start by deciding whether you prefer smooth or intense flavors, delicate floral notes, or more pronounced spicy profiles. This initial reflection will naturally guide your selection toward the styles that best suit you.
The intended use also influences your choice: for making classic cocktails such as theDry Martinior theNegroniFor best results, choose a versatile London Dry Gin that pairs easily with a variety of ingredients. If you prefer to enjoy your gin neat or on the rocks, opt for a premium gin with complex and refined botanicals that reveal their full subtlety when tasted directly. Craft gins with creative profiles are perfect for experimenting and crafting original cocktails.
To discover even more mixology inspiration and techniques, consultour cocktail recipe ideaswhich will guide you towards new flavors to explore.
Quality remains a key factor in your selection. Premium gins benefit from more careful distillation and use superior botanicals, often meticulously sourced. Investing in a quality gin truly transforms the tasting experience and allows you to appreciate the full aromatic complexity of this noble spirit.
Don't forget to consider the origin and terroir of your gin. French gin brings its own cultural specificities and unique traditional know-how. While English gins remain a benchmark with their classic style, French gin producers offer creative and fascinating interpretations that enrich the ever-evolving world of this spirit.
