The Spirit of Juniper: Exploring What Gin is Made From

Juniper berries are the unsung heroes of gin, lending it that unmistakable piney and aromatic flavor that gin enthusiasts adore. These small, dark berries aren't technically berries at all but rather the seed cones of the juniper plant. Despite their modest size, they pack a significant punch in both aroma and taste, making them the star ingredient in any gin.

Gin is more than just a spirit; it’s an experience that starts with a neutral base alcohol distilled from grains like barley, corn, rye, or wheat, though some producers use molasses or grapes. This neutral spirit undergoes a magical transformation through the infusion of botanicals during distillation. While juniper berries are the mainstay, it’s the symphony of other botanicals—coriander, angelica root, citrus peels, licorice, cinnamon, cardamom, orris root—that creates the unique profiles we love. Each distiller's blend of botanicals is a closely guarded secret, allowing them to create a wide array of gin styles.

Traditionally, there are two main types of gin. London Dry Gin, known for its crisp profile, requires all botanicals to be distilled together. This method ensures a balanced and consistent flavor. On the other hand, New Western Gin offers more creative freedom, allowing distillers to add botanicals at different stages, resulting in contemporary gins with novel flavor combinations.

For those who love juniper-forward gins, the Taster's Club bottle shop boasts an impressive selection. Whether you're a home bartender perfecting your cocktail game or a culinary explorer seeking new flavors, these gins promise to elevate your gin-based creations.

Taster’s Club Gin Recommendations: Available in Our Bottle Shop

1. Hendrick's Gin

A Scottish gin with a unique blend of botanicals, including cucumber and rose petals, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

Region: Scotland | Tasting Notes: Coriander, Juniper, Citrus | ABV: 41.4%

2. Tanqueray No. Ten Gin

This gin is distilled with fresh citrus fruits, such as grapefruit and lime, giving it a refreshing and zesty taste.

Region: US | Tasting Notes: Pepper, Coriander, Angelica | ABV: 47.3%

3. Bombay Sapphire Gin

Made with 10 botanicals and infused with vapor to create a smooth and balanced flavor, this gin is a classic choice for gin and tonics.

Region: England | Tasting Notes: Sweet-Tart, Thick, Soft Juniper-Pepper Spice | ABV: 47%

4. Beefeater London Dry Gin

A traditional London Dry gin that has been around for over 150 years, it has a bold juniper flavor and is great for classic gin cocktails.

Region: England | Tasting Notes: Lemon Zest, Juniper, Earth, Citrus, Coriander, Licorice | ABV: 40%

5. Aviation American Gin

This American gin is distilled with a unique blend of botanicals, including lavender and cardamom, giving it a floral and spicy taste.

Region: US | Tasting Notes: Cardamom, Smoke, Citrus, Pepper | ABV: 42%

6. Plymouth Gin

This gin is made in Plymouth, England, and is known for its smooth and creamy texture, as well as its citrus and earthy notes.

Region: England | Tasting Notes: Angelica, Coriander, Cardamom, Citrus, Nutmeg | ABV: 41.2%

7. Monkey 47 Gin

A German gin that is made with 47 different botanicals, including lingonberries and cranberries, creating a complex and fruity taste.

Region: Germany | Tasting Notes: Clove, Grapefruit | ABV: 47%

8. Roku Gin

A Japanese gin that is distilled with six Japanese botanicals, including sakura flower and yuzu peel, giving it a delicate and floral flavor with a hint of citrus.

Region: Japan | Tasting Notes: Cherry Blossom, Green Tea, Bergamot, Pepper | ABV: 43%

See Taster’s Club Top 10 Gin Recommendations

Gin is a versatile and delicious spirit that's loved by many. Whether you prefer the bold, piney flavor of a classic London Dry gin or the more experimental flavors of a New Western gin, there's a bottle out there for everyone. So the next time you're in the mood for a gin and tonic or a martini, reach for one of these recommended bottles and discover the spirit of juniper for yourself.