Gin is a drink that always stays between tradition and innovation; it's the school Gin & Tonic, but it's also an innovative, bold craft cocktail. It was once a medicine, now it stands out as a drink of the modern connoisseur.
This year has some excitement when it comes to gins—classic varieties stand tall while new craft distilleries set out to try new things. Take the journey through the gin landscape to understand what great gin is made of and the best gin that you should drink or mix this year.
Brief History of Gin: From Apothecaries to Modern-Day Bars
Gin was discovered by the Dutch in the 17th century. They called it genever, and the drink was prescribed as a medicine to treat kidney as well as stomach ailments. These berries were supposed to cure most diseases. It was the British soldiers who brought genever to England; it is how the English gin came about.
The 18th century saw the popularity of gin. Gin became the favorite spirit during the Gin Craze, although overconsumption led to social issues and regulation. Despite this, gin survived and matured, and London Dry Gin became a defining style.
Its role in the Martini and Negroni has cemented gin as a spirit that can do anything. Today, gin is at its best, blending perfect history with modernity since distilleries around the world test new botanicals and techniques.
What Makes a Great Gin?
Good gin is composed of the component parts and the process of distillation, balanced perfectly. Obviously, juniper forms the foundation of gin; the piney, herbal taste becomes synonymous with the spirit itself. Yet the subtle influences of botanicals, from coriander and citrus peels to angelica root and florals add nuance.
Craftsmanship also plays a big role. Small-batch gins commonly employ copper stills, offering better temperature control and subtle flavors. Even the house spirit quality makes a difference-it's the canvas of the botanicals.
Creativity is what distinguishes craft from classic gin. While classic gins are old school, craft gins push the boundaries using saffron, lavender, or even seaweed flavors. It's this duality that makes gin fascinating and delightful for every palate.
Classic Gin Varieties: Timeless Choices
The history of the spirit is found in its classic gin styles and remains at the heart and soul of aficionados. These styles have been around for so long for good reason:
- London Dry Gin: Bold juniper with a clean profile, it's essential for Gimlet or Negroni cocktails. Brands like Wild Roots and Sipsmith, are icons of this style.
- Plymouth Gin: Made in one distillery in Plymouth, England, this gin has a softer, earthier character. It's a great sipping gin or works well in classic cocktails like the Aviation.
- Old Tom Gin: This style is sweeter, as was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. Old Tom gin is great for drinks like the Tom Collins. Modern distillers have revived this style, making it a must-try for cocktail lovers.
Every style has its character-from the dry crispness of London Dry to the rich history of Plymouth. They are a base for endless exploration of the possibilities of gin.
The Craft Gin Movement: Innovation in a Bottle
It embodies innovation. Unlike mass-produced gins, whose methods and botanicals are in place, crafting is all about experimentation. With small-batch production, distillers can experiment to the more extreme ends on flavor profiles.
Two newer examples of this perfectness that craft gin produces in brand terms are Monkey 47 and Hendrick's. Monkey 47 blends in over 47 botanicals and takes complexity and aroma levels so very high. Here Hendrick's is making something unique with cucumber, and infusion with rose.
The third distinctive feature of craft gin is sustainability. Most distilleries draw their ingredients from within the region and have an environmentally conscious approach, from water conservation to renewable energy. Craft gin caters to the needs of two types of consumers: those who are either first-time adventurous palates, sustainability-driven consumers or people seeking creative spirits.
Top Gins for 2024: Our Picks
Here are our best picks for gins in 2024:
This year has had a lot of great rosters for gin fans to find. Here are our top picks for this year:
- Wild Roots London Dry Gin: A reliable classic with robust juniper and citrus notes. Perfect for traditional cocktails.
- Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin: An adventurous choice with 47 botanicals for a layered, aromatic profile.
- Hendrick's Gin: Light, floral, and refreshingly different, it's a must-try for its cucumber and rose essence.
- Roku Gin: It is a Japanese gin, with cherry blossom, yuzu, and other traditional botanicals balanced into one perfect flavor.
- Sipsmith London Dry Gin is a small-batch gin. It is smooth and versatile: great for sipping alone or mixing with other juices.
Every gin has its character, and you'll have something for every kind of drinker. Be it bold juniper-forward gins or softer, innovative flavors, here are some that would elevate your gin experience.
Tips for Hosting a Gin Tasting
Hosting a gin-tasting session is a fun and educational way to explore this versatile spirit. Here's how to make it unforgettable:
- Gather a Range of Gins: Include old-school and micro-distilled gins to cover the flavor spectrum.
- Prepare Ancillary Garnishes: Lemon, lime, rosemary or edible flowers can enhance the palate.
- Serve with Light Hors d'oeuvres: Cheese, crackers, and olives will complement the gins, but not overpower them.
- Set the Scene: Provide tasting notes and tell visitors to say what they are thinking.
You can make it even more interesting by using a YouTube tutorial on gin cocktails. The best way to develop a deeper appreciation for gin is through quality time spent with friends while hosting a tasting. Here's How to Make a Gin & Tonic.
Epicurean Trader: Curating the Best Gins for You
Epicurean Trader is curating exceptional spirits. From classic to craft gins, we're keen on selecting the best to deliver flavor and quality to our customers. Whether it's your first time with gin or you are an enthusiast, there is something very special here.
To browse more themed gin gift selections, please go to the Gift Basket Page. For cocktail basics, check the For the Bar Page. For inspiration and insight into your gin journey, check out the Epicurean Trader.
Lastly…
Gin is not just alcohol; it is a rich and happening drink. With vibrant history, flexibility, and innovation, gin is a forever favorite. From traditional ways to paying homage to craft gins that will try to break boundaries, possibilities are endless in 2024 to explore and have a good time.
Whether you’re sipping a Martini, mixing a Gin Fizz, or hosting a tasting party, gin continues to inspire. Let’s raise a glass to this remarkable spirit and discover the best it has to offer this year.
This blog plunges into the interesting history of gin, defines the characteristics that make great gins, and those to try in 2024. This touched time-honored classics: London Dry and Plymouth Gin alongside innovative craft gins expressive of bold flavor and sustainable practice.
Tips on hosting a gin-tasting party and curated selections from Epicurean Trader also shone through. Traditional, creative, versatile, and exciting, gin is well worth being toasted to, at whatever end of the stick that works for you.
