Gin is a neutral spirit flavored with botanicals, and the one that has to dominate is juniper. That's the whole legal definition. Everything else, from coriander and citrus peel to cucumber and rose, is the distiller's choice, which is why two gins can taste almost nothing alike. It's also one of the best-value categories on the site, because gin isn't aged and its price reflects ingredients and method rather than years in a barrel. We carry around 35 gins, most between $13 and $50. We ship to most states, with an adult 21 or older required to sign at delivery.
The Main Styles of Gin
London Dry. A method, not a place. London Dry gin can be made anywhere, as long as the botanicals are added during distillation and nothing but a trace of sugar is added afterward. It's juniper-forward, dry and crisp, and it's the style most classic cocktails were built on. Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, Fords and Booth's all belong here.
Contemporary. Juniper still has to be there, but it steps back and lets other botanicals lead. Hendrick's is the best-known example, infused with cucumber and rose. Nolet's Silver leans floral and fruity, and Glendalough Rose does what its name says.
Regional and foraged. Some gins are built around where they're made. The Botanist uses 22 botanicals foraged on the Scottish island of Islay. Inverroche Verdant is South African, made with botanicals from the local fynbos.
Citrus-led. Tanqueray Sevilla brings in bitter orange, and Bombay Sapphire Murcian Lemon leans on Spanish lemon. Both are easy wins in a gin and tonic.
Where to Start
The honest answer is that you don't need to spend much. Tanqueray and Bombay Sapphire are both under $30 and both are genuinely good, the kind of bottle bartenders use because they work rather than because they're cheap. If you're mixing for a crowd, the Tanqueray 1.75L and Bombay 1.75L handles bring the price per drink down further. New Amsterdam and Seagram's cover the budget end.
Spending more buys you a different style rather than a better version of the same one. Tanqueray No. Ten is distilled with fresh whole citrus and makes one of the best martinis you can pour. Hendrick's and The Botanist are worth buying when you want the botanicals to be the point.
Matching Gin to the Drink
Gin and tonic. A London Dry gives you the classic version. A contemporary gin gives you something lighter and more aromatic. Both are right.
Martini. This is where gin quality shows most, since there's almost nothing else in the glass. Tanqueray No. Ten or Nolet's Silver are worth the extra.
Negroni. Campari and sweet vermouth are both assertive, so a juniper-forward London Dry holds up best. A delicate floral gin gets lost.
Whatever you're making, the mixer and the garnish matter as much as the gin. Use a good tonic, plenty of ice, and match the garnish to the botanicals: cucumber with Hendrick's, a strip of grapefruit or orange peel with the citrus-led gins, a lemon twist with a classic London Dry. For recipes, our gin cocktail guide covers the essentials.
Old Tom, Plymouth and Genever
A few older styles still turn up on cocktail menus. Old Tom is a slightly sweetened gin from the eighteenth century, and it's what many early recipes for the Tom Collins and Martinez actually called for. Plymouth is a softer, earthier gin that, unlike London Dry, did historically refer to a specific place. Genever is the Dutch spirit gin descended from, made with a malted grain base that gives it a fuller, almost whiskey-like body. None of them is better than a modern London Dry. They just answer an old recipe more faithfully.
Gin FAQ
What is gin made from?
A neutral grain spirit redistilled or infused with botanicals, led by juniper berries. Common additions include coriander, angelica root, citrus peel and orris root, with each brand using its own recipe.
What is the difference between gin and vodka?
Gin is essentially vodka flavored with juniper and other botanicals. Vodka is meant to be neutral. Our guide to vodka versus gin goes into more detail.
What does London Dry gin mean?
A production method rather than a location. Botanicals must be added during distillation, with nothing but a trace of sugar added afterward. It can be made anywhere.
Does gin go bad?
Not in a sealed bottle. Once opened, gin keeps for years if stored upright away from heat and light, though the more delicate botanical notes can fade slowly.
Is gin gluten free?
Distillation removes gluten proteins, so gin is generally considered gluten free even when made from grain. If you're highly sensitive, check with the producer directly.
Can gin be shipped to my state?
We ship to most U.S. states, typically within a few business days. Someone 21 or older has to sign at delivery. Availability is confirmed at checkout, since a handful of states restrict direct spirits shipments.