Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. During that time, I’ve watched gin evolve from a spirit many people avoided to one of the most exciting and diverse categories behind the bar.
Today, gin is experiencing a global renaissance, with hundreds of craft distilleries producing unique expressions packed with flavour, character and creativity.
If you’re learning about spirits for the first time, gin is one of the most fascinating categories to explore.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about gin, including how it’s made, the role of botanicals, different gin styles, popular brands and the classic cocktails every bartender should master.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
What Is Gin?
Gin is a distilled spirit flavoured primarily with juniper berries.
In fact, for a spirit to legally be called gin in many parts of the world, juniper must be the dominant botanical flavour.
Unlike vodka, which aims for neutrality, gin embraces flavour.
The flavour profile of gin comes from a blend of botanicals, which can include:
- Juniper berries
- Coriander seeds
- Angelica root
- Citrus peel
- Cardamom
- Orris root
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Cinnamon
This botanical diversity is what makes gin one of the most complex and interesting spirits available.
The History of Gin
Gin’s roots can be traced back to a Dutch spirit known as Genever.
During the seventeenth century, British soldiers encountered Genever in Europe and brought the spirit back to England.
Over time, gin became incredibly popular throughout Britain, eventually evolving into the styles we recognise today.
While gin has experienced periods of decline and resurgence, the modern craft gin movement has helped make it one of the fastest growing spirit categories worldwide.
Australia has also become a major player in the craft gin industry, producing some outstanding local expressions.
How Is Gin Made?
The production of gin begins with a neutral spirit, similar to vodka.
This base spirit is then infused or redistilled with botanicals.
The general process includes:
Step 1: Create a Neutral Spirit
A clean alcohol base is produced through fermentation and distillation.
Step 2: Add Botanicals
Juniper and other botanicals are added.
Each distillery uses its own unique recipe.
Step 3: Distillation
The spirit is distilled again, allowing the botanical flavours to infuse into the alcohol.
Step 4: Dilution and Bottling
Water is added to achieve the desired alcohol strength before bottling.
The final result is a spirit with a unique balance of botanical flavours.
What Are Botanicals?
Botanicals are the herbs, spices, fruits and plants used to flavour gin.
Think of botanicals as the ingredients that give each gin its personality.
Common botanicals include:
Juniper
The defining flavour of gin.
Tasting notes:
- Pine
- Resin
- Fresh forest aromas
Coriander Seed
Provides citrus and spice notes.
Citrus Peel
Often contributes:
- Lemon
- Orange
- Grapefruit
characteristics.
Angelica Root
Adds earthy and herbal complexity.
Orris Root
Helps bind flavours together while contributing floral notes.
What Does Gin Taste Like?
The answer depends on the style.
However, most gins share some common characteristics:
- Piney
- Herbal
- Citrusy
- Fresh
- Aromatic
The flavour profile can range from bold and juniper forward to light, floral and fruit driven.
This diversity is one reason gin appeals to such a wide audience.
Types of Gin Every Bartender Should Know
Not all gin is the same.
Let’s explore the most common styles.
London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin is the classic style most people associate with gin.
Characteristics:
- Juniper forward
- Crisp
- Dry
- Citrus driven
Popular brands:
- Tanqueray
- Beefeater
- Bombay Sapphire
This style forms the backbone of many classic cocktails.
Plymouth Gin
Produced in Plymouth, England.
Characteristics:
- Softer juniper
- Slightly earthier profile
- Balanced botanicals
Plymouth Gin is often considered more approachable for beginners.
Old Tom Gin
A slightly sweeter style of gin.
Characteristics:
- Less dry
- More rounded flavour
- Historical significance
Old Tom Gin was common during the nineteenth century and is making a modern comeback.
Contemporary Gin
Modern craft distillers often create gins that move beyond traditional juniper dominance.
Characteristics:
- Floral notes
- Fruit driven profiles
- Creative botanical combinations
Many Australian craft gins fall into this category.
Navy Strength Gin
Stronger than standard gin.
Typically bottled at:
- 57% ABV or higher
Characteristics:
- Intense flavour
- Powerful botanicals
- Excellent in cocktails
Popular Gin Brands
Every bartender should be familiar with major gin brands.
Tanqueray
Known for:
- Strong juniper profile
- Classic London Dry style
- Excellent cocktail performance
Bombay Sapphire
Known for:
- Balanced botanicals
- Smooth flavour profile
- Wide popularity
Hendrick’s
Known for:
- Cucumber and rose notes
- Distinctive flavour
- Premium positioning
Beefeater
Known for:
- Traditional London Dry character
- Strong cocktail heritage
Four Pillars
Australian craft gin producer known for:
- Innovative botanicals
- Exceptional quality
- Global recognition
Essential Gin Cocktails Every Bartender Should Know
Gin appears in some of the world’s most famous cocktails.
Gin and Tonic
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Tonic water
Simple, refreshing and timeless.
Martini
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Dry vermouth
A true cocktail classic.
Tom Collins
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Lemon juice
- Sugar syrup
- Soda water
Refreshing and easy drinking.
Negroni
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Campari
- Sweet vermouth
An iconic bitter cocktail.
Gimlet
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Lime juice
Simple yet sophisticated.
Aviation
Ingredients:
- Gin
- Maraschino liqueur
- Lemon juice
A favourite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Why Gin Works So Well in Cocktails
Gin brings complexity to cocktails that few other spirits can match.
Its botanical profile adds:
- Depth
- Aroma
- Freshness
- Character
Unlike vodka, which often fades into the background, gin actively contributes flavour to the finished drink.
This makes it a favourite among bartenders and mixologists.
Australian Craft Gin Boom
Australia has become one of the world’s most exciting gin producing countries.
Distillers frequently incorporate local botanicals such as:
- Native citrus
- Lemon myrtle
- Finger lime
- Pepperberry
This has created a unique Australian gin identity that continues to gain international recognition.
For bartenders, understanding local gin brands is increasingly valuable.
How to Serve Gin
Gin can be enjoyed:
Neat
To appreciate botanical complexity.
Over Ice
Simple and refreshing.
Gin and Tonic
The world’s most popular gin serve.
Cocktails
The most versatile application.
Common Gin Myths
Gin Tastes Like Pine Trees
While juniper does contribute pine notes, modern gins offer much more complexity than many people realise.
All Gin Tastes the Same
The huge variety of botanicals creates dramatic differences between brands.
Gin Is Only for Gin and Tonics
Gin is one of the most versatile cocktail spirits available.
Building a Home Gin Bar
If you enjoy cocktails, gin deserves a place in your home bar.
Before we start mixing, make sure you have your cocktail kit ready to go. A proper shaker, jigger and strainer will make the process smoother and help you create a better balanced drink.
Essential equipment includes:
- Boston shaker
- Jigger
- Hawthorne strainer
- Coupe glasses
- Highball glasses
Many aspiring bartenders purchase their first bar tools as part of a complete cocktail set. If you’re considering this option, our Barillio Cocktail Kit Review explores what’s included, the quality of the tools, and whether it offers good value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gives gin its flavour?
Gin gets its flavour from botanicals, with juniper berries being the most important ingredient.
What is the difference between gin and vodka?
Vodka is designed to be neutral, while gin is intentionally flavoured with botanicals.
What is the best gin for beginners?
Many beginners enjoy Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s or Four Pillars due to their approachable flavour profiles.
Is gin stronger than vodka?
Most gin and vodka products have similar alcohol content.
What cocktail should beginners try first?
A Gin and Tonic is one of the easiest and most popular ways to enjoy gin.
Final Thoughts
Gin is one of the most exciting and diverse spirits in the world of bartending.
From classic London Dry expressions to innovative Australian craft gins, there is a style to suit almost every palate.
Understanding gin gives bartenders a deeper appreciation of flavour, botanicals and cocktail creation.
Master gin and you’ll unlock countless classic and modern cocktails that remain staples behind bars worldwide.
Thanks for Joining Us Behind the Bar
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation.
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If you’re looking to complete your RSA in any state or territory across Australia, you can find the full details here.