From London Dry to Sloe: 8 Gin types explained
Intro – A Guide to the most popular Gin types
Gin is one of the most diverse spirits in the world. While juniper is always the defining botanical, different production methods, botanicals and techniques create a wide range of distinct gin styles.
From the crisp and classic character of London Dry to fruit-forward flavoured gins and the higher strength of Navy Strength gin, each type offers a different experience in aroma, flavour and cocktail use.
Below you will find an overview of eight important gin types that help explain the diversity of modern gin. Understanding these styles can help you discover new gins and choose the right gin for different cocktails and serving styles.
London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin is the most widely recognised gin style. Despite the name, it does not have to be produced in London. The style refers to a strict distillation process where botanicals are added during distillation and no flavourings are added afterwards, resulting in a crisp and juniper-forward gin.
Learn more about London Dry Gin
Aged Gin
Aged Gin is matured in wooden barrels for a period of time, similar to whisky or rum. The barrel aging adds complexity, often bringing notes of vanilla, spice and oak while softening the traditional juniper character of the gin.
Learn more about Aged Gin
Pink Gin
Modern Pink Gin is typically created by infusing gin with red fruits or botanicals that give the spirit its pink colour and a slightly sweeter flavour profile. These gins often highlight berry or citrus notes and are popular in refreshing cocktails.
Learn more about Pink Gin
Navy Strength Gin
Navy Strength Gin is bottled at a higher alcohol content, usually around 57% ABV or more. Historically this strength ensured that spilled gin would still allow gunpowder to ignite on naval ships. Today it is valued for its powerful flavour and intensity in cocktails.
Learn more about Navy Strength Gin
Old Tom Gin
Old Tom Gin is a historic gin style that sits between London Dry and sweeter early gins. It usually contains a small amount of sugar, giving it a smoother and slightly sweeter character that works well in classic cocktails such as the Tom Collins.
Learn more about Old Tom Gin
Sloe Gin
Sloe Gin is technically a gin liqueur made by infusing gin with sloe berries, a type of wild plum. The berries give the spirit its deep red colour and a fruity flavour combining tart berry notes with gentle sweetness.
Learn more about Sloe Gin
Dry Gin
Dry Gin is a broad category of gin with little or no added sweetness. While similar to London Dry, the production rules are less strict, allowing distillers more flexibility in how botanicals are used or adjusted after distillation.
Learn more about Dry Gin
Flavoured Gin
Flavoured Gin includes gins where additional flavours are added or emphasised, such as citrus, herbs, flowers or spices. These gins often highlight specific botanicals and are commonly used in modern cocktails and creative serves.
Learn more about Flavoured Gin
Gin Types in Cocktails
Many gin types are closely connected to the way gin is used in cocktails. Some styles work best in classic recipes, while others shine in modern drinks. To learn more about how different gins are used behind the bar, explore our guide to Types of gin cocktails