Gin
Botanical Symphony: The Flavorful World of Gin
Gin is a clear, distilled spirit flavored predominantly with juniper berries, giving it its signature piney, herbal character. While juniper is required by definition, gin is also infused with a diverse blend of botanicals such as coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, orris, licorice, and spices, each recipe producing a unique flavor profile. Thanks to its versatility and aromatic complexity, gin is a staple in iconic cocktails like the Gin & Tonic, Negroni, and Martini.
Gin’s origins trace back to medieval Europe, where it was first developed as a medicinal remedy by monks and alchemists who infused grape or grain distillates with botanicals for therapeutic use. It gained widespread popularity in England during the 18th century, eventually becoming a central part of British drinking culture. Today, gin is produced in a wide range of styles, from the classic London Dry to the softer Old Tom and the innovative New Western varieties. Flavored versions like sloe gin, made by steeping sloe berries in gin with sugar, offer a sweeter, lower-proof alternative ideal for sipping or mixing.
What Does Gin Taste Like?
Gin is known for its crisp, aromatic flavor, defined by the unmistakable presence of juniper berries. To legally be called gin, the spirit must be predominantly flavored with juniper, a small, fleshy seed from the juniper tree that delivers the bold, pine-forward taste that gin lovers recognize instantly. While pine is the dominant note, juniper also brings refreshing citrus-like brightness and a slightly fruity, resinous edge, giving gin its signature complexity.
The overall taste of gin varies widely depending on the combination of botanicals used. Traditional London Dry gins tend to be sharp, dry, and juniper-heavy, with subtle hints of citrus peel, coriander, and earthy roots like angelica. Contemporary gins, often called New Western or modern-style gins, dial back the juniper and highlight alternative flavors such as lavender, rose, cucumber, grapefruit, or exotic spices. Then there’s sloe gin, a sweeter, berry-infused liqueur made by steeping sloe berries in gin and sugar, offering a fruitier, softer take on the spirit.
What Are the Types of Gin?
Gin comes in several distinct styles, each defined by how it’s flavored, distilled, and balanced with botanicals, though juniper must always lead the profile for it to be legally considered gin. From classic dry gins to innovative modern expressions, each type offers a unique tasting experience.
-
London Dry Gin is the most iconic style, known for its bold juniper-forward taste, clean finish, and lack of added sweeteners. It’s dry, crisp, and often infused with coriander, citrus peel, and angelica root, perfect for classic cocktails like the Martini or Gin & Tonic.
-
Plymouth Gin, made exclusively in Plymouth, England, is slightly earthier and softer than London Dry. While it shares many of the same botanicals, its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it a favorite among bartenders.
-
Old Tom Gin is a sweeter, richer style that predates London Dry. Often described as a bridge between genever and dry gin, Old Tom is ideal for vintage cocktails like the Tom Collins or Martinez.
-
New Western or Contemporary Gin focuses less on juniper and more on alternative botanicals like florals, herbs, and citrus. This style offers modern, approachable flavor profiles and is popular with craft gin distillers.
-
Genever, the predecessor of modern gin, hails from the Netherlands and Belgium. It’s maltier and more robust, often resembling a hybrid between gin and whiskey due to its grain base and light aging process.
-
Sloe Gin is technically a gin-based liqueur rather than a true gin. It’s made by steeping sloe berries (a type of wild plum) in gin with sugar, resulting in a sweet, fruit-forward spirit with a lower alcohol content.
What Is the Best Gin to Buy?
The best gin depends on your personal taste and how you plan to enjoy it. Some gins shine in a classic cocktail like a Martini or Negroni, while others are perfect for sipping neat or over ice. Flavor profiles range from crisp and juniper-forward to bright, citrusy, or floral, giving you plenty of options to match your preferences.
Top picks for exceptional flavor include Monkey 47 Dry Gin, known for its complex botanical blend, Martin Miller’s Dry Gin with its smooth, balanced character, New Amsterdam Gin for a more modern, approachable style, and the iconic Bombay Sapphire, famous for its refreshing, versatile taste.
Browse our curated gin catalog to explore these and other leading brands, and easily elevate your next cocktail hour with a bottle that fits your style.
Popular Gin Cocktail Recipes You Should Try
With its crisp, botanical flavor, gin is the foundation of some of the most iconic cocktails ever created. From refreshing spritzes to bold, spirit-forward classics, these gin-based recipes showcase the spirit’s versatility and timeless appeal.
-
Gin & Tonic: A true classic, this easy-to-make highball pairs gin, tonic water, and a lime wedge over ice. The bitter tonic highlights gin’s bright juniper and citrus botanicals, making it clean, crisp, and endlessly refreshing.
-
Negroni: Bittersweet and perfectly balanced, the Negroni blends equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stirred over ice and garnished with an orange twist, it's a bold, aromatic drink ideal for those who love complex, flavor-forward cocktails.
-
Martini: Elegant in its simplicity, the Martini is a mix of gin and dry vermouth, served chilled and garnished with a lemon twist or olive. Whether stirred or shaken, this drink is a showcase for the quality and character of your chosen gin.
-
Tom Collins: A tall, citrusy refresher made with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and topped with club soda. Served over ice, the Tom Collins is a perfect summertime sipper, light, bubbly, and endlessly drinkable.
-
French 75: Combining gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, then topped with champagne, the French 75 is a sparkling cocktail that adds a touch of elegance to any celebration. Served in a flute, it’s as festive as it is refreshing.
-
Aviation: This visually striking cocktail features gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. Floral, lightly sweet, and slightly tart, the Aviation stands out with its unique pale purple hue and layered botanical flavor.
Gin Delivery in Los Angeles & Nationwide Shipping
Shopping for top-shelf gin online is fast, easy, and convenient with Juicefly Spirits. Our curated collection features everything from classic London Dry to modern craft gins, infused with citrus, floral, or herbaceous botanicals. Restock your bar cart or explore a new favorite, ordering premium gin is simple and convenient from the comfort of your home.
If you're located in Los Angeles, take advantage of our same-day gin delivery service. Most orders arrive within 60 minutes, handled by our reliable, professional delivery team. We proudly serve all major LA neighborhoods, including Downtown LA, West Hollywood, Venice, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and more. Your order is securely packaged and includes real-time tracking, ensuring a smooth and stress-free delivery every time.
Outside of LA? We’ve got you covered. Juicefly Spirits offers nationwide shipping on all gin products, from bold London Dry and smooth Old Tom to flavored gins and limited-edition craft bottles. Each shipment is discreetly packaged and carefully protected, so your bottle arrives in perfect condition whether you’re treating yourself or sending a gift.
Please note: You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. An adult signature is required upon delivery.