Gin

Gin is a distilled spirit that gets its primary flavor from juniper berries. Without juniper, it simply isn't gin. Beyond this piney backbone, distillers infuse a unique recipe of botanicals, including herbs, spices, roots, and citrus peels. This is why the category is so diverse. A classic London Dry gin is crisp, dry, and juniper-forward, while modern styles often dial back the pine to highlight floral, herbal, or locally sourced ingredients.

When choosing a bottle, look closely at the label. "London Dry" guarantees a traditional distillation process with no artificial flavors added afterward. "Plymouth" is slightly earthier, while "Old Tom" offers a touch of historical sweetness. Think about how you plan to drink it. A bold, juniper-heavy gin stands up best to tonic water, while delicate, floral gins are perfect for a clean martini or sipping over ice with a twist of citrus.