Back in the early to mid-2000s, the gin world started to feel the first ripples of what would become a full-blown revolution—something few could’ve predicted at the time. A fresh wave of distillers stepped onto the scene, ready to shake things up and rethink what gin could be. While juniper remains the essential backbone of the spirit, these innovators began exploring how it could be used in new and exciting ways, pushing the boundaries of flavour and creativity.
Today, gin is one of the most exciting spirits to be involved with. Brands around the world are celebrating provenance, culture, heritage, and flavour, while experimenting with fresh approaches to distillation. From Kenya to Vietnam, contemporary gins are being crafted with botanicals native to their regions—resulting in spirits that challenge tradition and redefine what gin can taste like.
Placing the product packaging to one side, the question remains: what makes a good gin?
Everyone’s palate is different. Some people love bold juniper-forward profiles, while others might find that a hit of coriander seed throws them off completely. But even with personal preferences, there are a few core elements that tend to set great gins apart from the rest.
- It starts with balance—juniper should be present but not overpowering. The best gins bring together botanicals like citrus, herbs, spices, and florals in a way that feels smooth and well-rounded.
- The base spirit is just as important; it should be clean and of high quality, allowing all those vibrant flavours to shine without any harshness.
- Then there’s character. Great gins have something distinctive about them—maybe it’s a unique botanical, a regional twist, or a creative distillation technique.
- Versatility is also key. A good gin should feel at home in everything from a sharp, bracing Martini to a refreshing G&T or a bold Negroni. On the nose, it should be aromatic and layered, offering a little glimpse into the complex blend of botanicals inside.
- And finally, a smooth, lingering finish ties it all together, leaving a clean, memorable impression that invites another sip.
