Gin

The production of gin involves following a number of stages. The regulations governing the production of this spirit are relatively flexible. Juniper berries are the only mandatory ingredients required for a spirit to bear the name ‘gin’.

Gin is a spirit made using a neutral grain spirit. This is described as neutral because its alcohol concentration is so high that it is often difficult to detect the base ingredient used. This is usually grain (barley, wheat, rye, etc.). However, gin can also be made from molasses spirit. Often, distilleries do not produce this spirit themselves. This neutral base is flavoured with juniper berries and other botanicals (coriander, angelica root, lemon and orange peel, etc.).

To produce gin, the distillers follow the steps outlined below:

• Flavouring the neutral spirit: the neutral base is flavoured by macerating the botanicals for 24 to 48 hours and/or by infusing them. Depending on the type of gin, it is also possible to add individual distillates or artificial essences.
• Distillation with botanicals: this stage is carried out in traditional stills. It applies only to distilled gins, notably London dry gin.
• Dilution: the distillate is diluted with pure water to reduce the alcohol content, which must be at least 37.5 per cent.
• Filtration: some gin producers filter the spirit to remove all impurities.
• Maturation: this stage is not compulsory, as most gins can be consumed immediately after production. However, the maturation phase allows the aromas and flavours to develop more fully.

Gin comes in various styles, which differ in particular in terms of their production process. Some varieties, such as Yellow gin, Old Tom gin and New Western gin, are considered unofficial. By contrast, other types of gin, the production of which is regulated, are classified as official. Discover the different types to find the best gin for you!

Highly sought-after for creating original cocktails with attractive colours, flavoured gin sometimes stands out for its exotic flavours. It is a type of gin in which natural botanicals (spices, aromatic herbs and other flavourings) have been macerated or infused. Flavoured gin can also be produced through artificial flavouring by adding gin essences (particularly juniper berries). The appearance of flavoured gin can be adjusted by adding colourings. G’Vine, Tanqueray gin and Santa Ana are just some of the flavoured gin brands worth discovering.

Classic gin refers to distilled gin, the most common type of gin. The production process for this spirit involves a second distillation of the neutral alcohol in which the botanicals have been macerated. Distilled gin is generally produced without any additional flavouring. However, the distiller may add natural or artificial flavourings after distillation. That said, the aroma and flavour of juniper berries must remain dominant. Drumshanbo Gunpowder, Gin Monkey and Hendrick’s Gin are among the leading names in classic gin.

London Dry Gin is also a distilled gin. However, no artificial flavourings or colourings may be added during its production. Furthermore, no flavouring may be added after distillation. The only permitted addition is sugar, up to a maximum of 0.1 g per litre. If the gin contains sugar, it bears the designation ‘London Gin’. Contrary to what its name suggests, London Dry Gin can be produced anywhere, not just in London. Engine gin and No.3 London Dry Gin are among the must-try varieties.

Whilst gin is often associated with England and the Netherlands, other countries are now producing premium-quality gins. As well as drawing inspiration from traditional recipes, distilleries often use botanicals specific to their own countries, thereby creating unique gins.

With its rich tradition and legends, gin is a true English passion. Generally produced using traditional methods and top-quality ingredients, English gin is among the most highly regarded in the world. Renowned for its aromatic complexity and refined flavour, this spirit is also known for its wide variety of styles and flavours. Among the high-quality English gins are the following brands, amongst others:

• Bombay Sapphire Gin
• Tanqueray London Dry Gin
• Bulldog Gin
• Peaky Blinders Spiced Dry Gin
• Plymouth Navy Strength Gin

French gins are currently enjoying great success in France and around the world. This is thanks to the expertise of French distilleries, but also to the local ingredients that lend distinctive flavours to their products. French gin producers often create recipes that showcase a region’s unique character through the botanicals they use, such as lavender or olives from Provence, rare citrus fruits or even vine blossoms. Notable French gin brands include:

• Gin Citadelle
• G’Vine
• Normindia
• Generous Gin
• Hexagone Gin
• Distillerie du Mont Blanc
• Anaë

Whilst the Scots are renowned for their whisky-making skills, they are no less accomplished when it comes to gin production. Indeed, they are renowned for their expertise in distillation. With numerous craft distilleries today, Scotland is the UK’s largest producer of gin, accounting for around 70 per cent of total production. An iconic brand, Hendrick’s is a must-try when it comes to Scottish gin. Produced at the William Grant & Sons grain distillery in Girvan, this premium gin is crafted using traditional methods in very small batches. Distillation takes place in two very old stills, the Bennett Still and the Carter Head, which lend this gin its distinctive character and aromatic smoothness. And let's not forget the award-winning Edinburgh gin range.

As well as England, Scotland and France, other countries have also started producing gin. For a change of pace, why not discover Irish gins – varied, delicious and full of character, particularly those from the Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin brand. Gin lovers can also explore the incredible diversity of gins produced in Belgium. Arduenna Gin and Mr Copperhead Gin are well worth a try. Germany is also one of the leading countries in gin production. It is notably home to the famous Monkey 47 Gin brand, a spirit distilled from 47 botanical ingredients harvested mainly in the Black Forest.

Gin has often ventured far beyond European borders, conquering distant lands such as Japan. Creating their own version of gin, Japanese distillers skilfully combine traditional production techniques with local influences. For example, they blend juniper berries with typically Japanese ingredients such as yuzu, shiso (a Japanese aromatic herb) or sansho (a berry native to Japan). To discover the uniqueness of Japanese gins, Nikka, Gin Komasa and Ki No Jyu are brands not to be missed, not to mention Roku gin.

Gin is particularly commonly used in the preparation of various cocktails. Depending on the type of gin, this spirit can add freshness and bitterness, as well as contributing a large part of the drink’s aromas. Gin-based cocktails include, amongst others:

• Gin and Tonic
• Gin Fizz
• Dry Martini
• Cucumber Lemonade
• Orchard Collins
• Negroni

Gin and Tonic is undoubtedly the most famous gin-based cocktail. This legendary drink, once used by British naval officers as a remedy for malaria, is very simple to make. All you need to do is mix gin with tonic water. You can add a garnish such as a twist of lemon or a slice of cucumber, which serves not only as decoration but also enhances the flavour. At Vinatis, you’ll also find a wide selection of gins from all corners of the globe: English gin, French gin, Scottish gin, Japanese gin… Gins to enjoy on their own or to use in your cocktail recipes to impress your friends! Explore our gin offers and find your favourite.