How To Choose The Right Gin For Every Kind Of Drink

Gin is one of the most versatile spirits out there. It can be bracing and juniper-heavy, light and floral, or even rich and malty. But not all gin is created equal, and if you’ve ever wondered why one gin makes a great martini while another works better in a Tom Collins, it all comes down to style.

To make sense of the gin world—and to help you avoid putting the wrong gin in the wrong cocktail—here’s a practical guide to the different types of gin and where they shine.

London Dry Gin: The Classic Choice

London Dry isn’t necessarily made in London (though it can be). The term refers to a production style that results in a crisp, juniper-forward gin with no added sweeteners. This is the most common style of gin and the one you’ll find in classics like Tanqueray, Beefeater, and Bombay Sapphire.

Best for:

London Dry is a workhorse. If you’re building a home bar and can only have one gin, this is the one to start with.

Plymouth Gin: The Subtle Standout

Plymouth Gin is actually a protected designation, meaning it can only be made in Plymouth, England. It’s similar to London Dry but has a softer, earthier profile with less of a juniper punch. That makes it a great option for people who like gin but don’t necessarily want it to dominate their drink.

Best for:

• Martinis (especially if you like them a little smoother)
• Gin Rickeys
• Aviation Cocktails

Old Tom Gin: The Sweet Spot

Think of Old Tom as the missing link between London Dry and Genever (which we’ll get to in a second). It’s slightly sweeter than London Dry, with a richer texture. If you ever find a gin cocktail from the 19th century that calls for “gin,” chances are it was referring to Old Tom.

Best for:

• Tom Collins
• Martinez (the precursor to the martini)
• Any cocktail where a little sweetness balances the flavors

Genever: The Original Gin

Before gin was gin, it was Genever. This Dutch spirit is maltier and has a more whiskey-like character due to its grain-forward base. While it still has juniper, it’s not as dominant as in other styles.

Best for:

• Drinking neat or on the rocks (seriously, try it)
• Improved Holland Gin Cocktails (a great historical drink)
• Classic pre-Prohibition gin cocktails

If you love whiskey but are curious about gin, Genever is the perfect gateway bottle.

New Western Gin: The Creative Category

Sometimes called “contemporary gin” or “modern gin,” this is a broad category for gins that step away from the traditional juniper-heavy profile. Brands like Hendrick’s (with its cucumber and rose) or The Botanist (with its 22 botanicals) fall into this category.

Best for:

• Creative gin and tonics with unique garnishes
• Floral, herbal, or fruit-forward cocktails
• A good introduction to gin for people who say they don’t like gin

New Western gins are fun because they push the boundaries. They can be citrus-forward, floral, or even spice-heavy, making them great for experimentation.

Barrel-Aged Gin: The Whiskey Lover’s Gin

Take a gin, put it in a barrel, and suddenly, you’ve got something entirely different. Barrel-aged gin picks up flavors from the wood, adding warmth and depth. This style is great for people who like whiskey but want to try gin.

Best for:

• Negronis (barrel-aged gin adds an extra layer of depth)
• Gin Old Fashioneds
• Sipping neat or with a single ice cube

Brands like Barr Hill Tom Cat and Citadelle Réserve have made this category more popular, and if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s worth exploring.

Which Gin Should You Use?

Here’s the quick version:

• For classic cocktails like martinis and G&Ts → Go for London Dry.
• For a smoother, slightly earthy gin → Plymouth is a great alternative.
• For vintage cocktail recipes → Old Tom is your best bet.
• For something with whiskey-like depth → Try Genever or barrel-aged gin.
• For creative, modern drinks → New Western gins offer plenty of variety.

Gin is one of those spirits that rewards exploration. If you’re a gin and tonic drinker, try switching up your gin to see how the flavors change. If you love martinis, experiment with different styles to find your favorite balance.

And if you’re not sure where to start, just grab a London Dry and go from there. It’s hard to go wrong when the drink in your hand is crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor.