What is gin made of? Juniper, botanicals and style simply explained

Gin is one of the most exciting spirits of our time because it combines classic structure with great creative freedom. Despite all its diversity, there is a clear foundation: gin must be characterized by juniper.

Without juniper, it's not gin. This distinctive, spicy, slightly resinous character forms the aromatic foundation. Beyond that, botanicals come into play – plant-based ingredients such as citrus peels, herbs, spices, flowers, or seeds.

These botanicals determine the flavor profile of a gin. Some are fresh and citrusy, others spicy, floral, or herbaceous. This creates very different style profiles, even though the base remains the same.

The aromas are usually incorporated into the spirit through maceration and subsequent distillation. Depending on the recipe and process, botanicals can be subtly integrated and restrained or distinctly more prominent.

Therefore, to truly understand gin, one should not merely see it as a mixing spirit. Behind a good gin lies a deliberate composition of juniper and complementary aromas that shape its character.

Conclusion:

Gin is much more than just the base for Gin & Tonic. The combination of juniper and botanicals makes it one of the most versatile spirits out there.

To find out about the different styles and how they differ in taste, check out our overview of the most important gin styles.