07/09/2025
If gin reminds you of pine trees, you’re not imagining it! It's all about the botanicals.
By law, gin must have juniper berries as the dominant flavor, and they’re what give it that classic piney profile. But that’s just the start. Most gins are infused with a blend of herbs, spices, citrus peels, florals, and roots, ranging from coriander and cardamom to lavender, orange peel, or even cucumber.
That’s why some gins taste fresh and citrusy, while others lean earthy or floral. London Dry Gin is known for its crisp, juniper-forward style, while New Western gins tend to highlight other botanicals for a softer, more modern feel.
So if you’ve written off gin as “too piney,” try a few different styles. You might find one that changes your mind.