The Ultimate Guide To Different Types Of Gin

What are the different types of gin?

1. London Dry
2. Plymouth 
3. Old Tom 
4. Navy Strength 

Whether you’ve been drinking gin for the longest time or you’re simply curious to try the alcoholic drink — you’d want to discover the different types of gin. Gin is a light-bodied distilled spirit that is made of barley, cereal grains, wheat, rye, juniper berries, and other botanical herbs. Each type of gin has distinct characteristics that are worth seeking out. Unlike any other spirits for sale online in the Philippines, every bottle of gin you pour can be a new alcohol experience. 

During the 16th century, gin was derived from the word “genièvre”, which is the French word for juniper. Most gins are clear, while some have a slight golden color due to incorporating different flavors through the use of botanicals. Beyond the dominant flavor of juniper berries, every gin distiller incorporates its own botanicals (e.g., almond, anise, coriander, and citrus peels) while the liquor is being made to lend a unique yet well-rounded flavor profile. 

Famous gin brands such as Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, Monkey 47, Hendrick’s, Tanqueray, Plymouth, and Roku are popular among liquor fans. Well-loved cocktails such as the Gin Martini, Gin and Tonic, Negroni, Tom Collins Cocktail, French 75 Cocktail, and Gin Gimlet are also perfect for those who like mixing drinks during their parties. Continue reading this guide to learn more about the different types of gin! 

London Dry

London Dry is a gin type that originated from England but because it is the most widely produced style of gin to date, it is now being produced worldwide. It is often regarded as the trademark for high-quality gin because of its strong juniper flavor profile with fresh citrus, angelica root, and coriander notes. 

The term “dry gin” means there is no added artificial flavoring to the alcohol. This being said, all the flavors of a London Dry gin come from all-natural botanicals. If you drink a gin that leaves a sweet taste on the palate, it's likely from the botanical licorice. 

London Dry is the most natural form of gin, making it a highly versatile alcohol drink for cocktails. Famous London dry gin brands include Beefeater, Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, Windspiel Premium Dry Gin, and Scapegrace Dry Gin. 

Plymouth

Unlike the London Dry that can be produced from anywhere across the world, the Plymouth is a type of gin that can only be produced from the port of Plymouth, England. Flavor-wise, The Plymouth gin has an earthy taste profile and a spicier finish due to more roots blend of its flavor botanicals: juniper, orris root, angelica root, cardamom, and coriander seeds. It is also sweet with hints of citrus flavors from dried orange and lemon peels. This is why the gin is also a perfect base liquor for Negroni and Martini cocktails. 

Old Tom

Old Tom is an older type of gin that was made famous in 18-century England. Not too long ago, Old Tom gin could be produced almost exclusively in England. Today, it is produced by a number of distilleries across the world as well. 

Old Tom gin is less juniper-heavy compared to its London Dry counterparts. It is more approachable as it is characterized by a light, malty, and distinct citrusy sweetness flavor.  

Navy Strength

Navy Strength essentially translates to a London Dry gin deemed as “overproof”. It is a high-strength type of gin that was once famous for being drunk by the British Royal Navy. The Navy Strength gin is distilled with fresh ginger and native finger limes. On the palate, it leaves distinct elevated juniper and spice notes. Take note that drinking this gin packs a punch at 57% ABV. If you want a Navy Strength’s flavors to stand out, try mixing it as a cocktail. A notable brand of Navy Strength is Cannonball Gin. 

Key Takeaway

Now that you know the different types of gin and what makes each of them different from the other, you can now order any gin bottle and find out why it is beloved by so many!