What is London Dry Style Gin?

Gin, a distilled alcoholic beverage, has a rich history and diverse styles. Among them, London dry style gin stands out as a classic and widely enjoyed variant. This article delves into the world of London dry style gin, exploring its definition, production process, botanicals, flavor profile, notable brands, serving suggestions, and comparison with other gin styles.

Definition of London Dry Style Gin

London dry style gin is a distinct type of gin characterized by its crisp, clean flavor and adherence to specific production methods. It is made with a neutral grain spirit and flavored with juniper berries and a variety of botanicals. The term “London dry” refers to the traditional production methods associated with London, England, where gin has been distilled for centuries.

Production Process

The production of London dry style gin follows a traditional process that emphasizes natural ingredients and precise distillation techniques. A neutral grain spirit, typically made from wheat or barley, serves as the base for the gin. Juniper berries and other botanicals, such as coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels, are added to the spirit and macerated for a period of time. This allows the botanicals to infuse their flavors and aromas into the spirit. The mixture is then distilled, typically in a copper pot still, to extract the desired flavors and aromas. The resulting distillate is diluted with water to achieve the desired alcohol content and bottled.

Botanicals Used

London dry style gin is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which is largely attributed to the botanicals used in its production. Juniper berries are the predominant botanical, providing the gin with its characteristic piney and slightly bitter notes. Other commonly used botanicals include coriander, angelica root, citrus peels (such as lemon and orange), and a variety of spices and herbs. The specific combination and proportions of botanicals vary among different brands, contributing to their unique flavor profiles.

Flavor Profile

London dry style gin is characterized by its crisp, clean, and refreshing flavor profile. The predominant flavor is juniper, complemented by a balance of citrus, herbal, and spicy notes. The gin’s dryness refers to the absence of added sweeteners, resulting in a spirit that is not overly sweet. The high alcohol content (typically around 40% ABV or higher) contributes to the gin’s bold and assertive flavor.

Notable Brands

Numerous renowned brands produce London dry style gin, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profile. Some notable examples include:

• Beefeater: A classic London dry gin known for its bold juniper flavor and citrus notes.
• Tanqueray: Another iconic London dry gin, characterized by its smooth and well-balanced flavor profile.
• Bombay Sapphire: A premium London dry gin that uses a unique vapor infusion process to extract the flavors of its botanicals.
• Hendrick’s Gin: A Scottish gin that stands out with its floral and cucumber notes, along with traditional juniper and citrus flavors.

Serving and Pairing

London dry style gin is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in various ways. It is commonly served as a classic gin and tonic, with the addition of tonic water, ice, and a garnish of lime or cucumber. London dry gin also serves as the base for numerous classic cocktails, such as the Martini, Negroni, and Tom Collins. Its bold flavor profile pairs well with citrus, herbal, and savory ingredients, making it a suitable companion for a variety of dishes and snacks.

Comparison with Other Styles of Gin

London dry style gin differs from other gin styles in terms of production methods and flavor profiles. Plymouth gin, for instance, is another English gin that is produced in the city of Plymouth. It is typically sweeter and less juniper-forward compared to London dry gin. Old Tom gin, on the other hand, is a historical style of gin that is sweeter and has a more pronounced botanical flavor profile.

Conclusion

London dry style gin holds a prominent place in the world of spirits, renowned for its crisp, clean flavor and versatility. Its adherence to traditional production methods and the use of natural botanicals contribute to its distinctive character. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a classic cocktail, London dry style gin continues to captivate gin enthusiasts worldwide. Its historical significance and enduring popularity make it a timeless spirit that remains relevant in the ever-evolving world of beverages.

References

1. What is London dry style gin? – Craft Gin Club: https://www.craftginclub.co.uk/ginnedmagazine/everything-you-need-to-know-about-london-dry-gin
2. What is London Dry Gin? Everything you need to know. – Neat & Shaken: https://neatandshaken.com/pages/what-is-london-dry-gin-everything-you-need-to-know
3. The 4 Types of Gin and What They Even Are | Bon Appétit: https://www.bonappetit.com/story/different-types-of-gin

FAQs

What is London dry style gin?

London dry style gin is a distinct type of gin characterized by its crisp, clean flavor and adherence to specific production methods. It is made with a neutral grain spirit and flavored with juniper berries and a variety of botanicals, such as coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels.

What are the key characteristics of London dry style gin?

London dry style gin is known for its crisp, clean, and refreshing flavor profile. It is predominantly juniper-flavored, with a balance of citrus, herbal, and spicy notes. It is also typically dry, meaning it contains no added sweeteners.

How is London dry style gin produced?

London dry style gin is produced using a traditional process that emphasizes natural ingredients and precise distillation techniques. A neutral grain spirit is infused with juniper berries and other botanicals, then distilled to extract the desired flavors and aromas. The resulting distillate is diluted with water to achieve the desired alcohol content and bottled.

What are some common botanicals used in London dry style gin?

Common botanicals used in London dry style gin include juniper berries, coriander, angelica root, citrus peels (such as lemon and orange), and a variety of spices and herbs. The specific combination and proportions of botanicals vary among different brands, contributing to their unique flavor profiles.

How is London dry style gin typically served?

London dry style gin is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in various ways. It is commonly served as a classic gin and tonic, with the addition of tonic water, ice, and a garnish of lime or cucumber. London dry gin also serves as the base for numerous classic cocktails, such as the Martini, Negroni, and Tom Collins.

What are some notable brands of London dry style gin?

Some notable brands of London dry style gin include Beefeater, Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, and Hendrick’s Gin. These brands are known for their high quality and distinct flavor profiles.

How does London dry style gin differ from other styles of gin?

London dry style gin differs from other gin styles in terms of production methods and flavor profiles. For instance, Plymouth gin is another English gin that is typically sweeter and less juniper-forward compared to London dry gin. Old Tom gin, on the other hand, is a historical style of gin that is sweeter and has a more pronounced botanical flavor profile.