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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Gin

Gin is a distilled alcoholic spirit flavoured primarily with juniper berries and often other botanicals.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Gin is a distilled alcoholic spirit flavoured primarily with juniper berries and often other botanicals. It is produced in several styles, including Dutch genever and the drier London-style gin, and is widely used in cocktails such as the gin and tonic and martini.

Definition and production

Gin is a distilled spirit flavoured mainly with juniper berries and other botanicals. Modern production often uses a neutral base spirit that is redistilled or flavoured with botanical ingredients.

History

Gin is generally traced to the Netherlands and to early medicinal spirits associated with juniper. It later spread to England, where it became widely consumed and developed into distinct commercial styles.

Styles and regulation

Gin includes traditional genever as well as drier styles such as London gin. Legal definitions vary by jurisdiction, especially regarding minimum alcohol content and the required juniper flavour. In the United States, gin must have at least 40% alcohol by volume and a juniper character. In the EU, at least 37.5% ABV is required.

Use in cocktails

Gin is a standard ingredient in many mixed drinks. The gin and tonic and martini are among the best-known examples.

Key facts

  • Gin is a spirit whose characteristic flavour comes from juniper berries.
  • It is generally made from neutral spirits or grain-based spirits with botanicals added.
  • Traditional gin styles include Dutch genever and drier British and American styles.
  • Gin is a common base for cocktails such as the gin and tonic and martini.
  • In the United States, gin must have at least 40% alcohol by volume and a juniper character.
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Canadian context

Gin is widely available in Canada and is a standard spirit in Canadian bars, restaurants, and retail liquor systems. Canadian readers may also encounter domestic and imported gins in provincial liquor stores.

Frequently asked questions

What is gin?
Gin is a distilled alcoholic spirit flavoured mainly with juniper berries and other botanicals.
Where did gin originate?
Its origins are generally linked to the Netherlands and broader European medicinal distilling traditions.
What does gin taste like?
Gin is usually dry and strongly juniper-forward, though other botanicals can add citrus, spice, floral, or herbal notes.
What are common gin cocktails?
The gin and tonic and the martini are two of the best-known gin-based cocktails.
How strong is gin?
Gin is usually around 35–50% alcohol by volume, though legal minimums vary by country.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gin
    Supports: General definition, origin, styles, and U.S. legal definition
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/gin-liquor
    Supports: Definition, history, etymology, and styles
  3. Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gin
    Supports: Basic description, origin, common cocktails, and typical strength
  4. ScienceDirect — https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/gin
    Supports: Alcohol content, flavour profile, and botanical ingredients
  5. Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/gin
    Supports: Clear definition as a strong alcoholic drink flavoured with juniper berries