The 19 Best Gins For Everyone, From Beginners to Aficionados

Gin can seem intimidating to those unfamiliar with it, especially considering its broad, dynamic flavor profile and the countless available options. While excellent in classic cocktails (consider a violet-hued Aviation, frothy Ramos gin fizz, or dirty martini), it's also a treat when paired with simple carbonated mixers⁠ (tonic water, soda water, or ginger ale⁠) that highlight this liquor's complex flavors. But at the end of the day, a good bottle of gin needs very little to dazzle the palate. Enjoy it on the rocks, or even straight.

Not sure what style or brand of gin is right for you? We have all the intel below. And for those hit by a wave of gin-spiration, try our recipes for refreshing gin and tonic pops and delightfully boozy gin and tonic pickles, or treat yourself to one of these gifts for gin lovers.

What are the different types of gin?

Gin (a.k.a. “Dutch Courage”) is arguably one of the most versatile liquors out there. It's usually made from a minimum of 10 botanical ingredients, the most common of which is juniper berries. (Thanks to this antioxidant-rich "super fruit," gin has long been surrounded by an aura of health—in the 16th century, it was even used to treat stomach aches and anxiety.)

Gin has a lower sugar content than some other alcohols, though mixers can quickly change that. Despite the fact that its primary flavor comes from juniper berries, secondary notes can be derived from a wide array of ingredients, such as various fruits, herbs, spices, and, of course, other botanicals.

Most gins can be classified into four categories:

London Dry

Also simply referred to as “dry gin,” this is the most traditional and most popular type of gin⁠—and, despite its name, doesn’t actually have to be produced in England. It generally does, however, have to be made according to strict purity standards, which have origins in the 18th century and are meant to ensure the absence of toxic distillation byproducts.

In short, the phrase "London dry" means that the spirit must be distilled in a column still to at least 70 percent alcohol by volume (A.B.V.). Natural botanicals can be added to the resulting neutral spirit only through re-distillation, but any additions after distillation beyond water and a little bit of sugar disqualify the gin from being considered a London dry.

This classic, juniper-forward gin offers a crisp, clear taste that forgoes most sweetness in favor of a more woodsy palate. Translation: It’s basically like sipping on a Christmas tree.

Navy Strength

If you can remember your last gin-fueled hangover (we've all been there), chances are you were shooting back some Navy Strength gin. At 57 percent A.B.V., this overproof London dry packs quite a punch. However, this big, bold gin variant isn't just about excess; as the liquid's alcohol content increases, so does its flavor. Navy Strength definitely isn’t for the faint of heart, or your typical lightweight, but more experienced gin fans might be pleasantly surprised by this fully-loaded style of gin.

Plymouth

As the only regionally-restricted type of gin, Plymouth gin uses slightly more botanicals than traditional London dry gins, giving it a sweeter, earthier taste. This gin must be made in Plymouth, England, but only one distillery and brand remains in the Plymouth region⁠—the aptly named Plymouth Gin.

Old Tom

Old Tom gins⁠—which are usually sweeter and easier to drink than Plymouth gins⁠—use more ingredients for a broader taste and less bite, making them perfect for cocktails because of their mildness and added flavor. As the story goes, its name originates from black cat (a.k.a. an old tom) signs used by underground pubs after gin sales were curtailed in 18th-century England. Savvy drinkers would reportedly approach these signs, insert money into a slot, and a shot of Old Tom gin would be delivered to drinkers through a tube in the wall. And we thought American speakeasies were clever!

Our top picks

How We Picked These Products

Here at Delish, we take our alcohol very seriously, so we knew we had to find some reliable experts to help us find the perfect quaffs. We turned to informed sippers ranging from master bartenders to beverage directors at some of the top restaurants in the country, as well as a few knowledgeable gin lovers on our own team. After reviewing their recommendations and online brand reviews, as well as gauging factors like distillation process, flavor profile, and affordability, these are the best bottles of gin you can buy in 2022.