The Ultimate Gin Guide Everything You Need To Know

Leo Migdal

-Dec 3, 2025, 11:01 AM

the ultimate gin guide everything you need to know

A Dutch Genever barrel. Image: Flickr / cheeseslave Battle Scene from the 80 Years War. Image: Flickr / David Teniers the Younger "Gin Lane," an etching used by the British government as anti-gin propaganda during the Gin Craze. Image: Wikimedia / Samuel Davenport

A bottle of Hendrick's gin. Image: Flickr / TheDeliciousLife A mash tun. Image: Wikimedia / Kernel Saunters Published: March 12, 2025 | Last Updated: August 30, 2025 This page may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

With this quick-start guide to gin, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this flavorful and versatile spirit, from how it’s made to the best brands to buy. Whether you’re mixing up a classic cocktail or trying a new recipe, our Gin 101 guide will help you choose the right bottle and make the most of it. *This post may contain affiliate links, meaning Feast + West may receive commissions for purchases made through those links — at no cost to you. All opinions are our own. Please read our full disclosure for more information. Welcome to Gin 101!

This spirit is complex, with layers of herbal, floral and spiced flavors that vary widely from bottle to bottle. People often tell me that they hate gin. And honestly? I get it. Gin wasn’t always one of my favorite spirits for cocktails, either, but it has grown on me in a big way. When I was younger, the strong, herbal, almost-medicinal taste of cheap gin turned me away.

But now, I’m learning to like those complex flavors. Gin is a clear, distilled spirit with dominant botanical flavors of juniper, flowers, and fresh and dried fruit. The name gin derives from the word genever (old English), genièvre (French) and jenever (Dutch), all of which are derivatives of the Latin word juniperus, meaning juniper. When sold in the U.S., gin must arrive at a minimum 40 percent ABV and have a clearly identifiable juniper influence. Looking for a bottle to drink? See our always updated list of the best Gins!

There are two types of gin that are most common in the U.S. market. Distilled gin is made by distilling a mash, or fermented alcohol base, similar to production of brandy or whiskey. Redistilled gin is made from the second distillation of a neutral spirit. Both types receive their flavor via an infusion of fresh or dried juniper berries and other botanical ingredients (collectively known as the “botanical bill”). A third, less common (and cheaper), type is compound gin, which mixes neutral spirit with juniper berry extract or essences (in addition to other aromatics if desired) to gain flavor.

In addition to the three classifications, there are several popular styles of gin. London Dry gin is the most traditional and the benchmark for quality gin. It’s usually light-bodied, highly aromatic, and very dry, with a very pronounced juniper note. No artificial flavorings or botanicals can be added after the distillation process. Plymouth gin is a lighter, more citrus-forward style that originated in the port of Plymouth on the English Channel. Today, only one distiller has the right to produce it, Plymouth, Coates & Co.

Old Tom gin, which is most famously included in the Tom Collins cocktail, is a sweeter version that includes simple syrup, or sometimes licorice, before distillation and is occasionally before release. New Western Dry gin is modern style with less dominant flavors of juniper. Instead, supporting botanicals and flavors take center stage. The biggest difference between distilled gin and redistilled gin relates to the base alcohol. The former distills a lower-ABV fermented alcohol, which can be derived from grains, sugar beets, potatoes, sugar cane, or grapes. The latter uses an already distilled spirit (usually neutral grain) as the base.

The gin and tonic has saved more Englishmen’s lives, and minds, than all the doctors in the Empire.” — Winston Churchill. Gin’s story begins in the Middle Ages, with its roots tracing back to a medicinal drink known as “jenever” or “genever” in the Netherlands. This early form of gin was created by distilling malt wine with juniper berries, which were believed to have medicinal properties. The name “gin” itself is derived from the French word “genièvre” and the Dutch word “jenever,” both meaning juniper. Gin’s popularity soared in England during the 17th century, particularly after the Glorious Revolution of 1688, when William of Orange, a Dutchman, ascended to the English throne. The new monarch encouraged the production of gin, leading to a period known as the “Gin Craze.” During this time, gin was cheap and widely available, resulting in widespread consumption and social issues.

The British government eventually intervened with the Gin Act of 1751, which regulated production and sales, leading to a more controlled and refined gin industry. Today, distilleries all over the world produce their own versions that endeavor to reflect the essence of where they’re made. In the United States, gin is classified as an alcoholic beverage with a minimum of 40% ABV (80 proof) that has the distinct flavor of juniper berries. Gin that is produced solely through the redistillation of botanicals can be specifically labeled and marketed as “distilled gin.” Gin comes in several varieties, each with its unique characteristics: At its core, gin is a neutral spirit flavored primarily with juniper berries.

Without juniper, it’s simply not gin! But the real magic happens when distillers blend other botanicals—aromatic ingredients like citrus, spices, flowers, and herbs—to create complex flavors that range from herbal and spicy to floral and citrusy. One of the most exciting things about gin is the variety of styles available. Here’s a quick guide to the most common types: Despite the name, London Dry Gin doesn’t have to be made in London. It’s known for being juniper-forward with a crisp, clean finish.

No sweeteners or artificial flavors are allowed, making it the purest expression of what gin can be. This historical style of gin is sweeter than London Dry and was popular in the 18th century. It’s experiencing a resurgence today thanks to craft distillers and bartenders who are bringing it back into modern cocktails. Navy Strength gin is bottled at 57% ABV or higher. The urban legend has it that this gin was strong enough to ignite gunpowder, which is why the British Royal Navy insisted on it being this potent. However, the real story is about getting "proof" by lighting the alcohol to ensure it was the quality they paid for.

This proof is the first time where the alcohol to water ratio produces a blue flame. Navy Strength Gins are robust and perfect for a classic Gin & Tonic or Negroni.

The Ultimate Gin Guide Everything You Need To Know

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