What is Gin Made From?

If you have ever discussed gin with friends, you likely have joked about the pine needle taste of the liquid. It is not uncommon to associate gin with pine needles or Christmas trees. However, that line of thinking is not quite accurate. So, what is gin made from?

The juniper berry is the main ingredient in gin. The berry (and it’s not a real berry) is really the soft, fleshy cone of a juniper tree. Juniper trees belong to the same family (evergreen) as pine trees, but the pine has nothing to do with making gin.

What is Gin Made From? The Rise of Botanicals and Other Flavors

Now, because many people don’t care for the strong flavor of the juniper berry, some distillers embellish the taste with other ingredients. Botanicals including spices, citrus flavors, even nuts are common gin additives. One gin I have tried, infuses lavender, chamomile, and lemongrass. The result is a very pleasant, smoother gin without being overpowered by the juniper taste.

As just mentioned, the gin I tried had the other botanicals infused into the gin. That happens as part of the distilling process. Distillers also add these additional flavors to the distilled gin and then bottle it. Each produces distinct varieties and flavor.

Gin is Vodka with Flavor

While gin is considered an alcohol, the gin product incorporates a flavorless or neutral alcohol spirit. (Fun fact: most distillers buy the neutral spirit in bulk and do not make their own.) The juniper flavor along with other botanicals (if desired) are added during the distilling process.

Unlike other spirits like brandy or whiskey, gin does not require aging before it is ready to serve. Gin, like vodka often are the first distilled spirits offered by a distillery for that reason.

Now that you know what gin is made from, tell us if you prefer gin that favors the strong juniper flavor, or is your tastes align with those who enjoy additional botanicals to take the edge off the juniper.