Gins are so popular they often come with a wealth of botanical additions that may have you wondering what gin to buy. Flavoured gins can really help to elevate your cocktail game or are perfect on their own in a martini or with a little tonic water. Botanicals can also be added to cocktails and really level up your fall drink menu, so here are a few common ones that can help you make the right choice.
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Juniper
Gin isn’t gin without the juniper berries. The word ‘gin’ comes from juniper and it gives gin that distinctive pine flavour.
Angelica
This medicinal botanical is a very common addition to most gins. It contributes earthy notes.
Coriander
The dried seeds of the cilantro plant, coriander is another common gin botanical which adds a citrus and slightly nutty flavour.
Citrus
Orange and lemon are regular additions to gin cocktails as they help to lift and brighten the taste. To make a lemon or orange twist, use a vegetable peeler to remove a section of the skin. Switch to a pairing knife to cut a thin strip then give that strips a twist so it can rest on the side of the glass.
Orris Root
Orris root comes from the iris flower and brings a sweet, woody tones to gin drinks.
Basil
Gently bruising the basil leaf will release the oils that give it that distinctive taste. Use sparingly so as not to overpower your more subtle favours. Adding basil to a gin and tonic with a lemon twist makes it so so good.