Types of Gin Explained: London Dry, Plymouth, Old Tom, Genever, and More

By Aquarium Guides Editorial Team · Updated November 9, 2026

Last Updated: November 9, 2026

Gin is a spirit whose defining flavor is juniper, and the main types are London dry, Plymouth, Old Tom, genever, contemporary (New Western) gin, navy strength, and flavored styles such as sloe gin. London dry is the crisp, juniper-forward classic used in the martini and gin and tonic. Old Tom is slightly sweeter, genever is a malty ancestor of modern gin, and contemporary gins push juniper into the background in favor of citrus, floral, or herbal flavors. Knowing the types helps you pick the right bottle for a cocktail or sipping.

What Makes a Spirit Gin?

Gin starts as a neutral spirit, typically made from grain, though it can be made from other bases. It is then flavored with botanicals, with juniper berries as the required main flavor. In the European Union and the United States, gin must have a distinctly juniper character. In the EU the minimum bottling strength is 37.5 percent alcohol by volume, and in the United States it is 40 percent. Beyond juniper, producers use coriander seed, angelica root, citrus peels, orris root, cassia, licorice, cardamom, and many other botanicals. Each distiller’s botanical recipe is a signature.

Methods vary. In distilled gin, the botanicals are redistilled with the spirit in a still, which captures their essential oils. Compound gin simply flavors the spirit with essences, which is a cheaper and generally less refined method. Many premium producers also distill botanicals separately and blend them to control flavor.

The Main Types

London Dry Gin

The most recognizable style, dry and juniper-driven with citrus and spice. The “London” in the name refers to a method and not a location: it can be made anywhere. By definition, London dry gin has no flavoring added after distillation except a small amount of sweetener limits, and no artificial coloring. It is the standard choice for martinis, gin and tonics, and Tom Collinses.

Plymouth Gin

Historically linked to the port city of Plymouth, England, and traditionally made at one distillery. It is slightly softer and earthier than London dry, with a creamy texture and less bite. It works in any recipe calling for gin and is especially smooth in a martini.

Old Tom Gin

A lightly sweetened style popular in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and revived by craft distillers. It sits between London dry and genever. Old Tom is the traditional gin for classic cocktails such as the Martinez and the original Tom Collins.

Genever (Jenever)

The Dutch and Belgian predecessor of gin, distilled from malted grain, similar to a young whiskey, and flavored with juniper. It tastes malty, grainy, and gently sweet. It comes in young (jonge), old (oude), and aged versions. It is typically sipped neat, chilled, or used in specific cocktails.

Contemporary or New Western Gin

A broad modern category that deliberately reduces juniper dominance to highlight other botanicals such as cucumber, rose, lavender, citrus, or local herbs. These gins are usually softer and floral, popular in gin and tonics and in lighter cocktails.

Navy Strength Gin

Bottled at about 57 percent alcohol by volume, a strength rooted in Royal Navy tradition when spirits needed to be strong enough that gunpowder would still ignite if the spirit spilled on it. The gin is bold and intense, ideal for cocktails where flavor needs to stand out.

Barrel-Aged Gin

Rested in oak barrels, sometimes ex-whiskey or wine casks, which gives it a pale golden color and notes of vanilla and spice. It is often sipped or used in spirit-forward cocktails like the Negroni.

Sloe Gin and Flavored Gin

Sloe gin is technically a liqueur: gin infused with sloe berries (a relative of plums) and sugar, giving a sweet-tart red drink. Flavored gins add fruit or herbs after distillation and are typically sweeter.

Gin Types Compared

How to Choose a Gin

1. For a martini or Negroni: Pick a juniper-forward London dry to stand up to vermouth and bitter liqueurs.
2. For a gin and tonic: Try a citrusy or floral style, which tends to pair well with tonic and a garnish such as grapefruit, cucumber, or rosemary.
3. For classic cocktails with history: Use Old Tom for the Martinez.
4. For sipping: Consider genever or barrel-aged gin.

Classic Gin Cocktails

• Martini: Gin and dry vermouth, stirred and garnished with olive or lemon twist.
• Gin and Tonic: Gin, tonic water, and a citrus wedge over ice.
• Negroni: Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
• Gimlet: Gin and lime, shaken or stirred.
• Tom Collins: Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water.
• French 75: Gin, lemon, sugar, and sparkling wine.

Serving Tips

Keep gin in a cool place, and chill it for martinis. Use fresh citrus and plenty of ice so drinks stay cold and do not dilute quickly. Gin does not age in the bottle once sealed. As with all spirits, drink responsibly.

FAQ

Is gin just flavored vodka?

No. Both can start with a neutral spirit, but gin must be flavored predominantly with juniper and botanicals. Vodka is intended to be neutral.

Does London dry gin have to be made in London?

No. The name describes the style and process, and London dry gin can be produced anywhere.

What is the difference between gin and genever?

Genever uses a malted grain base, giving a malty, whiskey-like taste with less juniper. Gin uses a neutral base with juniper-forward botanicals.

Is sloe gin real gin?

It is gin-based but usually classified as a liqueur because of added sugar and berries. It is much sweeter and lower in alcohol than regular gin.

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