Gin is the most versatile bottle on the back bar, a juniper-led spirit that turns a splash of tonic into a proper drink and mixes into more classic cocktails than almost anything else. The style runs bone-dry and piney at one end and soft, floral and citrus-forward at the other, so there is a gin here for the Martini drinker and the G&T pourer alike.
Gin styles, from London Dry to New Western
Gin starts as a neutral spirit flavoured with botanicals, and juniper has to lead. London Dry is the benchmark: crisp, dry and juniper-forward, with nothing added after distillation. Plymouth is a protected style from that one English city, rounder and earthier thanks to a heavier hand of root botanicals. Old Tom is the historic one, lightly sweetened and built for old recipes like the Tom Collins and the Martinez. Navy Strength is bottled overproof, traditionally at 57%, for a bolder and more aromatic pour. Then there are the modern New Western gins, which push juniper into the background and lead with citrus, floral or herbal notes instead. Browse the whole range in our spirits selection.
How the botanicals shape the glass
Every gin is really a recipe. Alongside juniper you will find coriander seed, angelica root, orris, citrus peel, cardamom, cucumber and rose, and the balance of those botanicals is what gives each bottle its character. That is why gin behaves so well in a drink. For a proper G&T, pour over plenty of ice in a tall glass, top with good tonic at roughly one part gin to two or three parts tonic, and match the garnish to the gin: lime or grapefruit for a classic London Dry, cucumber for a floral modern style. The same bottle stirs into a bracing Martini or an equal-parts Negroni with Campari and sweet vermouth.
Gin FAQ
What is the difference between London Dry and New Western gin?
London Dry keeps juniper firmly in charge and stays dry and crisp. New Western, or contemporary, gin dials juniper back and lets other botanicals like citrus, rose or coriander take the lead, giving a softer and more aromatic style.
What is the best gin for a gin and tonic?
A classic London Dry rarely puts a foot wrong, with its juniper cutting cleanly through the tonic. If you prefer something gentler, a citrus-forward or floral modern gin makes a lovely, fragrant G&T.
What does Navy Strength mean?
It simply means the gin is bottled overproof, traditionally at 57% rather than the usual 40% or so. The higher strength carries more flavour, which is why it stands up so well in cocktails. Explore more in our spirits range.