What Is The Difference Between London Dry Gin, Flavoured Gin, And Craft Gin?
Gin is no longer limited to a single, traditional flavour profile. From the juniper-forward character of London Dry gin to fruit- and botanical-led flavoured gins, today’s market offers a broad range of styles and production approaches. Adding to the confusion, craft gin is often used as though it were a defined style, when it generally describes how a gin is produced or positioned rather than a specific flavour profile. London Dry gin, meanwhile, has defined production requirements and does not need to be made in London. Understanding these distinctions makes it easier to read a gin label, anticipate its flavour, and choose a bottle that suits your preferred serve or occasion.
Before choosing a bottle, let’s break down what these gin styles actually mean and how they differ.
Gin Styles Explained: A Quick OverviewLondon Dry gin is a legally defined style known for its juniper-led character, while flavoured gin emphasizes distinctive fruit, floral, citrus, herbal, or spice notes. Craft gin generally describes an artisanal or independent production approach rather than a specific style or flavour profile. These categories can overlap, so choosing between them depends on personal taste, preferred botanicals, cocktail style, and whether you prefer classic or more experimental gin expressions. |
London Dry Gin vs. Flavoured Gin vs. Craft Gin: What’s the Difference?
Gin labels can be confusing, especially when style, flavour, and production approach overlap. Choosing the right gin comes down to your preferred drinking experience and the occasion. Here’s how London Dry, flavoured, and craft gin differ:
Gin Type |
What the Term Means |
What Defines It? |
Can It Overlap With Other Types? |
|---|---|---|---|
London Dry Gin |
A recognised style of gin with a specific legal definition. The name refers to the style, not the location where the gin is made. |
A strong juniper character and compliance with the requirements for the London Dry category. |
Yes. A small or independent producer can make a London Dry gin, so it can also be described as craft. |
Flavoured Gin |
A category used for gin products where a particular flavour is intentionally highlighted beyond the traditional gin profile. |
The presence of a clearly identifiable flavour direction, such as fruit, floral, citrus, herbal or spice notes. |
Yes. A flavoured gin may also be produced by a craft distiller or fall within another recognised gin category, depending on its characteristics. |
Craft Gin |
A term generally associated with an artisanal, independent, or small-scale gin producer rather than a specific legal style. |
The producer’s identity, philosophy, scale, or emphasis on distinctive and creative gin offerings. |
Yes. Craft is not necessarily an alternative to London Dry or flavoured gin; a craft producer can make either. |
How Do London Dry, Flavoured, and Craft Gins Differ in Taste and Production?
The differences are not simply about flavour; each term tells you something different about the style, formulation, or approach behind the gin.
-
London Dry Gin: Crisp, dry and strongly juniper-led, with pine, citrus, coriander and spice notes. It is redistilled with natural botanicals, and no flavouring or colouring is added after distillation.
-
Flavoured Gin: Fruit-, floral-, citrus-, spice- or herb-led, often sweeter and softer than London Dry. Its featured flavours may be infused, blended or added after distillation, so juniper may be less dominant.
-
Craft Gin: Taste varies widely, from traditional juniper-forward profiles to unusual floral, savoury, local botanical or fruit-led styles. It is generally made in smaller batches by independent producers, often using distinctive botanical recipes or specialised distillation methods; “craft” is not a regulated gin style.
|
Explore different gin styles and discover the flavours, botanicals, and character that suit your preferences. |
Which Gin Is Right for You? London Dry vs. Flavoured vs. Craft
The right gin depends largely on what you enjoy drinking and how you plan to serve it. It is not necessarily the most popular one; it is the one that complements your palate, preferred serve, and occasion. Consider these factors before choosing:
Choose London Dry
If you enjoy a classic gin profile and want a versatile base for traditional serves such as a Gin & Tonic, Martini, or Negroni. Its defined style keeps juniper at the centre, making it particularly suitable when you want the gin to remain prominent alongside the other cocktail ingredients.
Choose Flavoured Gin
If you prefer a more distinctive flavour direction. Fruit, citrus, floral, herbal, or spice-led expressions can work well in contemporary serves where the gin itself is intended to contribute a noticeable flavour layer.
Choose Craft Gin
If you enjoy exploring unusual botanicals, distinctive recipes, or more individual expressions. Remember that “craft” does not define one flavour profile or guarantee a particular quality level; it can overlap with styles such as London Dry.
Conclusion
Choosing between London Dry, flavoured, and craft gin ultimately comes down to the drinking experience you want. Whether you prefer bold juniper, expressive fruit and floral notes, or more adventurous botanical combinations, the right gin can make each serve more distinctive. Explore the range from RV Drinks to discover thoughtfully selected expressions that suit different tastes, cocktails, and occasions.
|
A Gin Worth Discovering Explore RV Drinks’ London Dry, flavoured, and craft gin expressions to find a style that complements your preferred cocktails and flavour profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Gin
Is London Dry gin stronger than other gin?
Not necessarily. London Dry gin can have varying alcohol levels. Its defining characteristic is its production method and juniper-forward profile, rather than simply higher strength.
What is the best gin for cocktails?
A versatile London Dry gin works well in many classic cocktails because its juniper character complements ingredients such as vermouth, citrus, bitters, and tonic.
How should gin be stored after opening?
Store gin upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Keeping the bottle tightly sealed helps maintain its character.
Does gin expire after opening?
Properly stored gin generally remains drinkable for a long time, although its aroma and flavour can gradually decline after extended exposure to air.
Can gin be enjoyed neat?
Yes. Tasting gin neat allows you to appreciate its aroma and botanical character more clearly, although adding a small amount of water can soften its intensity.
