Top 10 Best Gin Brands to Try This Year
Gin has long been an essential element of spirits culture, evolving over centuries into one of the most versatile beverages available today. Perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails, its botanical complexity offers something for every palette. In recent years, craft distilleries have given rise to premium options, including an expanding market for Indian gin brands that are revolutionizing this industry.
If you’re looking for the best gin brands to try this year, we’ve put together a list that blends tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or a curious beginner, these selections will elevate your experience.
1. Hendrick’s Gin
Hendrick's Gin is one of the premier gin brands due to its signature blend of cucumber and rose petals, created in Scotland. Offering an exceptionally smooth and refreshing taste that makes an ideal base for cocktails, this highly popular brand also boasts floral aromas and balanced juniper notes making it one of the world's most beloved gin brands.
2. Tanqueray Gin
Tanqueray London Dry Gin has long been a go-to in bars and households alike, known for its bold juniper flavor with subtle citrus notes and coriander notes. Tanqueray makes an excellent, strong yet crisp gin that makes an exceptional base for crafting cocktails like the classic Gin and Tonic or Martini.
3. Bombay Sapphire
Bombay Sapphire stands out with its signature blue bottle and boasts an aromatic botanical blend consisting of juniper berries, coriander seeds, lemon peel, and angelica flower for an enjoyable sipping experience. Enjoy it alone or accentuate its flavors by adding tonic water or citrus fruit juice to the glass for enhanced enjoyment.
4. The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
Distilled on the Scottish island of Islay, The Botanist Gin features 22 foraged botanicals. It boasts an intricate yet balanced flavor profile suited for those who appreciate floral and earthy tastes, making it one of the top options when crafting sophisticated cocktails.
5. Sipsmith London Dry Gin
Sipsmith Gin has long been at the forefront of the craft gin movement, producing small-batch copper-distilled gin that captures the spirit of traditional London Dry Gin. Their product offers smooth yet juniper-forward flavor complemented with citrus and spice notes for an experience not to be missed by anyone looking for new types of gin brands to explore.
6. Roku Japanese Gin
Roku Gin, hailing from Japan, is an exquisite blend of six Japanese botanicals, such as cherry blossom, green tea, and yuzu. Offering an invigorating yet slightly sweet taste, Roku Gin makes an excellent selection for those who appreciate subtle complexity in their beverages.
7. Beefeater London Dry Gin
Beefeater Gin has long been recognized as an iconic London Dry Gin profile. Boasting an elegant balance of juniper flavor complemented by citrus and spice aromas, its affordability and consistent quality make it a top pick among many gin enthusiasts.
8. Gordon’s Gin
Gordon’s Gin is one of the most recognizable names in the industry, offering a crisp and straightforward gin experience. It has strong juniper and citrus flavors, making it an excellent choice for gin and tonic lovers. Its reasonable price point and reliable quality contribute to its status as one of the best gin brands in India and worldwide.
9. Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin
Nolet's Silver Dry Gin takes an innovative approach, boasting fruity notes of peach, raspberry, and rose that offer an ideal alternative to more traditionally juniper-heavy varieties. A perfect option for those seeking milder flavors like this premium brand of gin alcohol!
10. Greater Than Gin (India)
Greater Than Gin is India's inaugural craft gin and has quickly gained in popularity with fans of craft spirits. Produced by Nao Spirits and using homegrown botanicals from across India, its smooth citrusy palate features citrus and spice notes for an exquisite tasting experience—one of the finest Indian brands on the global gin market!
The Rise of Indian Gin Brands
India has established itself as a key player in the gin industry, producing numerous Indian gin brands that have made waves locally and internationally. Long known for producing whisky, India's recent gin revolution has given rise to innovative, premium spirits made using locally harvested botanicals. Here are a few noteworthy Indian gin brands you should explore:
- Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin: Crafted with Himalayan juniper and unique Indian botanicals.
- Stranger & Sons: A bold and citrus-forward gin that has gained international acclaim.
- Terai India Dry Gin: A refreshing, aromatic gin with Indian spices and floral notes.
- Pumori Gin: A craft gin with a balanced blend of botanicals and spices.
How to Enjoy the Best Gin Brands
Gin can be enjoyed in many different ways, be it neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails. Here are a few classic gin-based beverages to enhance your tasting experience:
1. Classic Gin & Tonic
One of the most refreshing and easiest ways to enjoy gin. Simply mix:
- 50ml gin
- 150ml premium tonic water
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge for garnish
2. Negroni
A sophisticated cocktail with a bold flavor profile:
- 25ml gin
- 25ml Campari
- 25ml sweet vermouth
- Ice and orange peel for garnish
3. Martini
A timeless and elegant drink:
- 60ml gin
- 10ml dry vermouth
- Ice and lemon twist or olive for garnish
Final Thoughts
Since there's never been such a wide array of the best gin brands to discover and appreciate, now is an ideal time to do just that. From timeless classics such as Tanqueray and Beefeater to innovative Indian varieties like Blue Label gin brands, the market offers something suitable for every palate.
No matter where your journey leads you, sampling some of the world's finest best gin brands will enhance your drinking experience. Purchase one and experiment with new cocktails; find what works for your palate.
Congratulations on creating wonderful experiences through Gin! Cheers to tasty drinks and even better memories!