You might be a regular gin enthusiast, but are you aware of the diverse types of gin that exist? Join us as we traverse through history and across continents to explore the intricate heritage of this cherished spirit. From its origins as a medicinal elixir to its modern-day role as a fundamental element in mixology, gin has fascinated connoisseurs for centuries with its adaptability and nuanced flavours and see what we're making at our Cape Town distillery.
The Legacy of Types of Gin - What is Gin?
The journey of gin through history is a mesmerising tapestry woven with centuries of cultural influences. Originating in the Netherlands during the 16th century, gin emerged as a juniper-infused elixir meticulously crafted by the esteemed Dutch chemist Franciscus Sylvius. Dubbed "genever" or "jenever," this concoction was touted for its medicinal qualities, believed to offer therapeutic benefits.
The evolution of gin took a significant turn when Dutch soldiers introduced genever to England during the Thirty Years' War, where it gained popularity amongst British troops, earning the moniker "Dutch Courage". This set the stage for a remarkable period known as the "Gin Craze" in early 18th century England, marked by a surge in different types of gin consumption, particularly among the working class.
In this period, marked by rampant consumption, significant societal issues emerged, leading to the implementation of the "Gin Acts" by the government to control the production and distribution of gin. Despite such hurdles, gin's popularity persisted, paving the way for the emergence of the London Dry Gin style. This style is renowned for its dry taste, cleanliness, and strong juniper flavour. As the 20th century progressed, gin saw the introduction of new styles and flavours. The craft gin movement of the late 20th century, continuing into the present day, has reignited enthusiasm for small-scale gins made with high-quality botanicals and creative techniques.
8 Types of Gin: An Exploration of Styles and Categories - What is Gin Made From?
The world of gin is diverse, with various styles and classifications. While it's challenging to distil all gin types into just a few categories due to the vast array of variations and regional styles, here are eight types of gin that are commonly recognised:
1.London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin, the most renowned and popular variety of gin globally, isn't limited to London, despite its name. Characterised by crisp dryness, robust juniper taste, and emphasis on botanicals, its distillation incorporates natural botanicals, with no artificial flavours or sweeteners added afterward. In South Africa, the gin alcohol percentage stands at 43% alcohol by volume (ABV).
2.Plymouth Gin
Plymouth Gin is recognised by its protected geographical indication (PGI) status, which mandates its production in Plymouth, England, for it to carry the Plymouth name. This gin variety is known for its slightly sweeter taste and reduced juniper presence, offering a smoother and fuller flavour. Characterised by its earthy and citrus hints, Plymouth Gin is excellent for enjoying straight or in traditional cocktails such as Martinis or Negronis. As Plymouth Gin isn't made in South Africa, its gin alcohol content stands at 41.2%
3.Old Tom Types of Gin
Old Tom Gin, a traditional variety, was widely favoured during the 18th and 19th centuries and has experienced a resurgence lately. It is somewhat sweeter than London Dry Gin yet less sweet than Dutch genever. Characterised by a more full-bodied mouthfeel, Old Tom Gin is commonly incorporated into iconic cocktails such as the Tom Collins and the Martinez. Its distinctive botanical tastes and moderated sweetness are hallmark features.
4.Genever
Genever, also known as jenever, is the original ancestor of gin, originating in the Netherlands in the 16th century. It's made from malt spirit distilled with juniper and other botanicals, resulting in a unique and complex flavour profile. Genever can be aged in wood, similar to whiskey, or left unaged. It's characterised by its maltiness and often has a smoother and richer taste compared to London Dry Gin.
5.New Western or Contemporary Types of Gin
This category encompasses a broad range of modern gins that push the boundaries of traditional gin-making techniques. New Western or Contemporary Gins often feature innovative botanical combinations, adventurous flavours, and unconventional production methods. They may downplay the prominence of juniper in favour of highlighting other botanicals or even introduce non-traditional gin ingredients like fruits, herbs, or spices.
6.Japanese Style Types of Gin
Japanese gin has gained recognition for its distinctive botanicals and meticulous craftsmanship. Influenced by traditional Japanese flavours and ingredients, Japanese gin often showcases a delicate balance of botanicals such as yuzu, shiso, sansho pepper, green tea, and regional fruits. It may also incorporate traditional Japanese spirits like sake or shochu as its base, imparting a rich and nuanced character.
7.Aged Types of Gin
Aged gin offers a unique twist on the classic spirit by introducing barrel ageing, a tradition dating back centuries. Typically aged for 3 to 6 months, the clear liquor transforms into a golden-hued elixir, infused with oak and spice flavours alongside its botanical base, which add depth to cocktails like the Martinez. Aged gin opens up new avenues for creative mixology, lending richness and complexity to both classic and innovative drinks.
8.Sloe Gin
Originating in the English countryside, sloe gin derives its name from the infusion of sloe berries during distillation. This sweet and rustic spirit, traditionally made in the fall harvest season, offers a deep, punch-like colour and a liqueur-like sweetness. While once popular in 19th-century America, it fell out of favour with changing tastes. Yet, classics like the sloe gin fizz endure.
Today, sloe gin enjoys a resurgence, adding hints of cassis flavour to semi-sweet cocktails. With its unique profile, it remains a charming addition to any bartender's toolkit. These categories provide a starting point for exploring the different best gin types, but it's worth noting that many gins don't neatly fit into one specific category and may exhibit characteristics of multiple styles.
Types of Gin Available at Cape Town Gin
Embark on a journey through the flavours of the Cape Town Distillery with a selection of distinctive gins crafted by Cape Town Gin. Each gin tells a story of the Western Cape's rich botanical heritage and unique cultural influences.
Cape Town Classic Dry Gin
Start your journey with Cape Town Classic Dry Gin, a symbol of unwavering quality. This spirit comes to life by distilling traditional dry gin, further enhanced by a distinctive botanical from the Western Cape.
Enjoy the rich blend of traditional juniper, cassia bark, cardamom, orris root, star anise, coriander, and dried orange peel. This mixture yields a charming gin marked by juniper tastes and lively citrus undertones. Our Cape Town Classic Dry Gin is the best gin to drink neat or use it as a base or for your favourite cocktail concoction.
Cape Town The Pink Lady Gin
Indulge in the delightful Cape Town Gin, The Pink Lady Gin, infused with the essence of rose geranium: an indigenous shrub synonymous with the Western Cape. Named after the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel, fondly known as "The Pink Lady," this gin captures the essence of Cape Town's vibrant spirit. With hints of rose water and fresh floral aromas, complemented by flavours reminiscent of Turkish Delight sweets, this is the best gin for a refreshing cocktail with fresh strawberries and tonic water.
Cape Town Rooibos Red Gin
Experience the essence of the Cederberg region with Cape Town Gin Company Rooibos Red Gin, inspired by the indigenous rooibos plant. Handpicked and infused into the gin, rooibos lends its vibrant red colour and rich earthy spiced flavour to create a unique drinking experience. Whether enjoyed with a twist of orange or a hint of ginger, this gin promises to tantalise the taste buds and evoke the spirit of the Western Cape.
Cape Town Black Rhino Gin
Support a noble cause with Cape Town Black Rhino Gin, crafted in collaboration with the Boucher Legacy. Infused with Renosterbos and buchu, indigenous plants once abundant in the Western Cape habitat, this gin pays homage to the region's natural heritage.
Revel in its aromatic profile, featuring hints of citrus, pepper, and liquorice, followed by a herbaceous and slightly sweet aftertaste. Best enjoyed neat on ice or as the centrepiece of a refreshing cocktail, garnished with a wedge of fresh lime and peppercorns.
What sets The Cape Town Gin Company apart from other gin brands is our giving back to the community. Proceeds from every sale of our Cape Town Black Rhino Gin goes towards the Boucher Legacy, a NPO fighting to save our Black Rhinos.
