Dry Gin

Dry gin is the clean, juniper‑forward style that made classics like the Gin and Tonic and Martini. Pick up a bottle and you get a spirit meant to mix, to lift a cocktail, and maybe even to reward a curious nose.

What is Dry Gin?

Dry gin is a neutral spirit flavored primarily with juniper berries plus other botanicals, then bottled without added sweeteners. The word “dry” signals low to no sugar after distillation, so what you have is something bright, herbal, and not syrupy.

Dry gins are the default for classic cocktails because they contribute aromatic lift without adding sweetness. One can also sip on dry gin neat, but it’s just not that common. Maybe have a try so you know its flavors and notes.

Types of Dry Gin

London Dry

Juniper-forward, clean, bright citrus or spice top notes, no residual sweetness… These are your London Gins. Most common of all the types, use them for Classic martinis, dry G&Ts, and cocktails that need that extra crispness.

Plymouth 

With the Plymouth, you get less sharp juniper notes and more root and citrus balance. It also has a mildly rounder finish. Great for cocktails, as always, but try going for Negronis.

Old Tom

Classic recipes like the Tom Collins, Martinez, and period cocktails would benefit from Old Tom’s lightly sweet, botanical-forward character. Old Tom also has more body than straight London Dry.

Navy Strength 

As the name suggests, Navy Strength gin is bottled at a higher proof (typically around 57% ABV). You get intense botanical notes and bigger flavor. As a reference, standard gin is typically bottled between 37.5% and 45% ABV!

Notable Dry Gin Brands

• Sipsmith - Sipsmith is known for a classic London Dry profile with balanced botanicals. This brand has proven reliable for martinis and G&Ts.
• Bluecoat American Gin - Noted for citrus brightness and an American botanical twist, this brand favors fresh, punchy cocktails.
• Bombay Sapphire - A name famous for a smooth, consistent botanical blend. It’s also widely available - good for stocking up home bars.
• Tarsier - Tarsier is a small‑batch craft producer focused on distinctive local botanicals and aromatic detail. A new name worth trying.
• Florena - Two words: Color. Changing. Enjoy mixing with acidic ingredients to watch the color of this spirit transform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between London Dry and regular dry gin?

London Dry is a legally recognized style with production rules emphasizing botanical distillation and no added sweetening. Other dry gins may use different methods or regional practices. Simply put, others can vary; London Dry has rules.

Is dry gin the same as compound or flavored gin?

No. Dry gin is distilled with botanicals and bottled without added sugar, while compound or flavored gins get much of their character from post‑distillation flavoring or sweetening. They look and behave differently in cocktails and on the nose.

Just a little extra info. Compound gin and flavored gin are not the same as well. But flavored gin can sometimes be a type of compound gin.

Smell here. Nose there. What is it with smelling gin?

It’s part of the process. By smelling, you get to identify more of the flavors and distinguish them. Your sense of smell is also directly linked to your sense of taste, which means it helps give you a better taste of your gin.