How to make gin: preparation, ingredients and secrets of the most aromatic spirit
- ricardobargunog
- Apr 28
- 4 min read
Gin is a spirit full of history, complexity and versatility. Its distinctive juniper flavour has made it the base of iconic cocktails such as the Dry Martini or the Gin & Tonic, and its production process is an art that combines precision and creativity.
From its medicinal origins in the Netherlands to its refinement in England and its rise in Spain, gin has evolved in styles and production techniques. But how is it actually made? What are its main ingredients?
In this article, we explore in detail how gin is made, from its alcoholic base to the role of the plants and botanicals that give it its unique character.
How is gin made?
The process of making gin varies by distillery and style, but follows a basic structure that includes these steps:
Selecting the alcohol base: A neutral alcohol is used, usually from grains such as wheat, barley or corn.
Infusion with botanicals: Juniper berries and other aromatic ingredients are added.
Distillation: The mixture is subjected to a distillation process to extract the flavors.
Dilution and filtering: The alcohol content is adjusted and filtered to ensure purity.
Bottling and maturation: In some cases, the gin is left to rest to soften its profile.
Depending on the distillation method and the selection of botanicals, different types of gin can be obtained with unique aromatic profiles.
Gin production methods
There are three main methods for making gin:
1. Traditional Distillation
This is the most common method for high-quality gins, such as London Dry Gin. The base spirit is introduced into a copper still along with the botanicals, and carefully distilled to capture the desired aromas and flavours.
2. Cold Infusion (Maceration)
In this process, the botanicals are steeped in the base spirit without further distillation. It is used for some craft gins that seek a more intense and natural flavour profile.
3. Steam Distillation
Here, the botanicals do not come into direct contact with the alcohol. Instead, they are placed in baskets within the still, where the hot alcohol vapours extract their essential oils. This method results in smoother, more balanced gins.
What is the raw material for gin?
Gin has two fundamental elements:
Neutral alcohol: Generally derived from cereals such as wheat, barley or corn, it is the base that is flavoured with botanicals.
Juniper: The essential ingredient that defines the character of gin.
In addition to juniper, the recipe for each gin can include a wide variety of botanicals, such as:
Citrus peels (lemon, orange, grapefruit) → They provide freshness and fruity notes.
Spices (cinnamon, cardamom, pepper) → They add complexity and warmth.
Aromatic herbs (rosemary, lavender, thyme) → They give a herbal and sophisticated profile.
Roots and seeds (angelica, coriander, liquorice) → They help unite and balance the flavours.
Each distillery selects its botanicals in different proportions, which makes each gin have a unique personality.
What is the base of gin?
The base of gin is neutral alcohol of agricultural origin, usually distilled from cereals such as wheat, barley or corn. This alcohol is pure and flavourless, allowing the botanicals, especially juniper, to take centre stage.
Unlike other spirits such as whisky or rum, gin does not need to be aged in barrels, although some brands experiment with maturation in wood to give it new dimensions of flavour.
Plant: where does gin come from?
Gin gets its signature flavor from juniper berries (Juniperus communis), a plant that grows in cool climates across Europe, Asia, and North America.
These berries, which are actually small cones with a berry-like texture, contribute resinous, earthy, and slightly citrusy notes. Without them, a drink cannot be considered gin.
Some distilleries carefully select their juniper berries from specific regions to achieve more intense or delicate flavor profiles.
Types of gin: main styles
Gin comes in different styles, each with unique characteristics:
1. London Dry Gin
The most popular and classic. It is made with traditional distillation and does not allow the addition of sweeteners or artificial flavors.
2. Plymouth Gin
A softer and less dry style than London Dry. It can only be produced in Plymouth, England.
3. Old Tom Gin
Sweeter and more aromatic, it was very popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is ideal for classic cocktails such as the Tom Collins.
4. New Western Dry Gin
A modern variant where juniper is not the dominant flavor, allowing other botanicals to take center stage.
5. Aged Gin
Matured in wooden barrels, it acquires notes of caramel, vanilla and spices.
Gin: origin and history
The origin of gin dates back to the Netherlands in the 17th century, when genever was created, a distillate with juniper used as a medicinal remedy.
Later, it reached England, where it evolved into London Dry Gin, a more refined and dry style. In the 18th century, gin became the most popular drink in London, giving rise to the "Gin Craze".
In Spain, gin gained great popularity with the rise of Gin & Tonic, which led to the creation of artisanal gins with local ingredients.
Conclusion: The Art of Gin
Gin is much more than a spirit: it is a combination of science, history and creativity. Its production process, based on distillation with botanicals, makes it one of the most versatile and aromatic drinks in the world.
From its birth as an herbal remedy to its privileged place in modern cocktails, gin continues to evolve and conquer palates.
So the next time you enjoy a Gin & Tonic, remember that there are centuries of history and tradition in your glass. 🍸
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