Gin Styles Compared: London Dry, Old Tom, and Contemporary Gin
Gin, a spirit steeped in history and tradition, has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years. This juniper-forward spirit offers a diverse range of styles, each with its own unique character and production methods. This article will compare three prominent gin styles: London Dry, Old Tom, and Contemporary, highlighting their key differences and helping you choose the perfect gin for your next cocktail.
London Dry Gin: The Classic Style
London Dry Gin is perhaps the most well-known and widely consumed style of gin. Despite its name, it doesn't necessarily have to be produced in London. The term refers to a specific production method and flavour profile.
Production: London Dry Gin must be distilled in a traditional still in the presence of all natural botanicals. No flavourings or sweeteners can be added after distillation, except for water to adjust the alcohol content. The base spirit must be of a high quality, and the predominant flavour must be juniper.
Flavour Profile: Characterised by a dry, crisp taste with a strong juniper presence. Other common botanicals include coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, and orris root, which contribute to a complex and balanced flavour. It's known for its clean and refreshing finish.
Examples: Tanqueray, Beefeater, Gordon's
Old Tom Gin: A Sweeter Alternative
Old Tom Gin represents a historical style that bridges the gap between Dutch genever and London Dry Gin. It was particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Production: Old Tom Gin is typically sweeter than London Dry Gin. This sweetness is achieved by adding sugar or other sweeteners after distillation. The botanical profile is often similar to London Dry Gin, but the added sweetness creates a softer and rounder flavour.
Flavour Profile: Offers a slightly sweet and malty flavour with a prominent juniper presence. The sweetness balances the botanical notes, resulting in a smoother and more approachable gin. It's often described as having a slightly richer and more rounded mouthfeel compared to London Dry Gin.
Examples: Ransom Old Tom Gin, Hayman's Old Tom Gin
Contemporary Gin: Exploring New Flavours
Contemporary Gin, also known as New Western Dry Gin, represents a more modern and experimental approach to gin production. It allows for greater flexibility in botanical selection and flavour profiles.
Production: While juniper must still be present, Contemporary Gins often feature a wider range of botanicals, and the juniper flavour may be less dominant. Distillers are free to experiment with unconventional ingredients and flavour combinations. There are fewer restrictions compared to London Dry Gin, allowing for greater creativity.
Flavour Profile: Exhibits a diverse range of flavour profiles, often highlighting botanicals other than juniper. Common examples include citrus-forward gins, floral gins, and spice-driven gins. The possibilities are virtually endless, making this a dynamic and exciting category.
Examples: Hendrick's Gin (cucumber and rose), Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin (orange and spices), The Botanist (foraged botanicals from Islay)
Production Methods and Regulations
Understanding the production methods and regulations surrounding each gin style is crucial for appreciating their unique characteristics. While the specific regulations may vary depending on the country of origin, certain guidelines generally apply.
London Dry Gin: Strict regulations govern the production of London Dry Gin, ensuring a high level of quality and consistency. The base spirit must be of agricultural origin, and all flavourings must be derived from natural botanicals. No artificial flavourings or sweeteners are permitted after distillation.
Old Tom Gin: There are fewer strict regulations surrounding Old Tom Gin, allowing for greater flexibility in the sweetening process. However, the base spirit and botanical profile are typically similar to London Dry Gin.
Contemporary Gin: The most lenient regulations apply to Contemporary Gin, giving distillers the freedom to experiment with different botanicals and flavour combinations. However, juniper must still be a discernible flavour element.
Key Differences in Flavour Profiles
The most significant difference between these gin styles lies in their flavour profiles. Here's a summary of the key distinctions:
London Dry Gin: Dry, crisp, and juniper-forward with balanced botanical notes.
Old Tom Gin: Slightly sweet and malty with a prominent juniper presence and a softer mouthfeel.
Contemporary Gin: Diverse and experimental, often highlighting botanicals other than juniper. Can be citrus-forward, floral, spicy, or anything in between.
Choosing the Right Gin for Your Cocktail
The best gin for your cocktail depends on your personal preferences and the desired flavour profile of the drink. Here are some general guidelines:
Classic Cocktails: For classic gin cocktails like the Martini, Gin & Tonic, and Negroni, London Dry Gin is often the preferred choice due to its dry and crisp flavour. However, experimenting with different gins can add a unique twist to these traditional recipes.
Sweeter Cocktails: Old Tom Gin is an excellent choice for cocktails that benefit from a touch of sweetness, such as the Martinez and the Tom Collins. Its softer flavour profile can also complement fruit-based cocktails.
Modern Cocktails: Contemporary Gin is ideal for creating innovative and flavourful cocktails. Its diverse range of botanical combinations allows you to tailor the gin to the specific ingredients and desired flavour profile of the drink. Consider our services if you need help selecting the right gin for your needs.
Ultimately, the best way to discover your favourite gin style is to try different examples and experiment with various cocktails. Don't be afraid to venture beyond the familiar and explore the exciting world of gin! You can learn more about Newrybardistillery and our passion for quality spirits.
Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy the journey of discovering the perfect gin for your palate. If you have any further questions, check out our frequently asked questions section.