If you’re a gin lover, you may have come across two common terms – “dry gin” and “London dry gin.” While both types of gin share certain characteristics, there are some notable differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between dry gin and London dry gin.
What Is Dry Gin?
Dry gin is a type of gin that is not sweetened. It is made by distilling a neutral base spirit with botanicals such as juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and citrus peel. The botanicals used in the production of dry gin can vary widely, giving each brand its unique flavor profile.
Dry Gin Characteristics:
- Not sweetened
- Distilled with botanicals such as juniper berries and coriander seeds
- Botanicals used can vary widely
- No additional flavorings or colorings added after distillation
What Is London Dry Gin?
London dry gin is a type of dry gin that meets certain production criteria. Despite its name, it does not have to be made in London. The term “London” refers to the style of gin rather than its place of origin.
To be labeled as London dry gin, the spirit must be distilled to a high alcohol percentage before being flavored with natural botanicals. No artificial flavorings or colorings can be added after distillation. Additionally, no sweeteners other than a small amount of sugar are allowed in the production process.
London Dry Gin Characteristics:
- Meets specific production criteria
- No artificial flavorings or colorings added after distillation
- No sweeteners other than a small amount of sugar allowed in production
- Must be distilled to high alcohol percentage before being flavored with natural botanicals
Differences Between Dry Gin and London Dry Gin:
While both types of gin are not sweetened and are made with botanicals, the main difference between dry gin and London dry gin lies in their production processes. London dry gin must meet specific criteria and cannot have any artificial flavorings or colorings added after distillation, whereas dry gin has no such restrictions.
Another difference is that London dry gin must be distilled to a high alcohol percentage before it is flavored with natural botanicals. This gives it a more concentrated flavor compared to other types of gin.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while both dry gin and London dry gin share some similarities, they are different in terms of their production processes and criteria. Whether you prefer one over the other is a matter of personal taste, but understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next bottle of gin.