A Guide to Gin: Styles, Cocktails, and How to Choose the Right Bottle

Gin has transformed from a humble juniper-led spirit into one of the most versatile categories in the world of drinks. Its evolution is a story of place and creativity: London Dry shaping cocktail culture, Mediterranean gins infused with citrus, Japanese gins defined by yuzu and tea botanicals. In 2025, gin continues to capture imaginations across the globe — whether poured neat, mixed into a cocktail, or enjoyed as the centrepiece of a summer spritz.

At Kent Street Cellars, our gin collection spans heritage houses, artisan distillers, and limited editions — bottles that highlight just how wide the world of gin really is. This guide explores the styles, cocktails, and choices that make gin one of the most exciting spirits to collect and enjoy. Explore our Gin Collection.

At a Glance

Q: What are the main styles of gin?
A: From London Dry’s crisp juniper to Japanese gin’s delicate botanicals, gin spans classic, contemporary, navy strength, flavoured, and regional styles. Each lends itself to a different occasion — whether in a timeless Martini, a vibrant Negroni, or a refreshing G&T.

KSC Recommendations: Tanqueray No. Ten (London Dry), Four Pillars Navy Strength, Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin, Hendrick’s Grand Cabaret.

The Styles of Gin

London Dry Gin

The benchmark of the category. London Dry is known for its crisp, juniper-forward flavour, supported by botanicals like coriander, angelica, and citrus peel.
Best For: Classic cocktails like Martinis and G&Ts.
KSC Recommendations: Tanqueray London Dry, Bombay Sapphire, Gordon’s.

Contemporary & New Western Gin

These gins loosen juniper’s grip, highlighting botanicals such as cucumber, lavender, or exotic fruits. They appeal to modern palates looking for softer, more creative expressions.
Best For: Negronis, gin fizzes, and experimental cocktails.
KSC Recommendations: Hendrick’s Gin, Lind & Lime, Aviation Gin.

Navy Strength Gin

Bottled at 57% ABV or higher, Navy Strength gin earned its name for its use on British naval ships (it wouldn’t ignite gunpowder if spilled). The higher proof cuts through in cocktails, offering bold intensity.
Best For: Punchy cocktails like the Gimlet or Corpse Reviver No. 2.
KSC Recommendations: Four Pillars Navy Strength, Poor Toms Fools Cut.

Flavoured Gin

From blood orange to strawberry, flavoured gins have exploded in popularity. When balanced well, they bring a playful twist while retaining gin’s backbone.
Best For: Spritzes, G&Ts, and summery cocktails.
KSC Recommendations: Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin, Malfy Rosa, Poor Toms Strawberry Gin.

Japanese & Regional Gin

Japan has carved a niche by incorporating local ingredients like yuzu, sakura, and sansho pepper. Similarly, Australian craft distillers bring native botanicals like finger lime and wattleseed.
Best For: Minimalist serves — gin & soda, or sipping neat to appreciate complexity.
KSC Recommendations: Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry, Nikka Coffey Gin, Applewood Gin, Kyoya Yuzu Gin.

How to Choose the Right Gin

Selecting gin often comes down to context:

• For timeless cocktails: London Dry or Navy Strength are reliable.

• For something modern: Reach for contemporary or flavoured gins.

• For sipping neat or with soda: Explore Japanese or regional artisan gins.

Think of gin not just as a cocktail base but as a spirit with terroir, heritage, and personality.

Cocktail Inspiration by Style

• London Dry: A crisp Gin & Tonic with a citrus garnish.

• Contemporary: A Negroni with Hendrick’s Orbium for added depth.

• Navy Strength: A bold Gimlet that balances strength with lime.

• Flavoured: A summer spritz with Malfy Con Arancia.

• Japanese: A minimalist serve — Ki No Bi with soda and yuzu peel.

FAQs

Q: What makes gin different from other spirits?
A: Gin must feature juniper as its dominant botanical, setting it apart from vodka or aquavit.

Q: What’s Navy Strength gin?
A: It’s gin bottled at 57% ABV or higher, traditionally carried by the British Navy.

Q: Can I use flavoured gin in classic cocktails?
A: Yes, but balance sweetness — e.g., swap in blood orange gin for a Negroni twist.

Q: Why is Japanese gin unique?
A: It often uses local botanicals like yuzu, sakura, and sansho, giving a refined, delicate flavour.

Q: What’s the best gin for a Negroni?
A: Bold, citrus-led gins like Tanqueray No. Ten or Poor Toms Fools Cut cut through perfectly.

Gin is endlessly adaptable: from the juniper-led classics to the botanically adventurous, from cocktail staples to neat serves. Its diversity is part of what makes it a modern icon — a spirit that continues to evolve with taste and time.

At Kent Street Cellars, we curate a gin range that speaks to every style, occasion, and palate. Explore the collection and find your perfect pour — whether for your next Martini, Negroni, or simply over ice with tonic.