As you all know juniper defines Gin. If there’s no juniper in the liquor, its not Gin. Its really that simple. Without juniper you have flavored (ugh) Vodka.
But what other botanicals are ‘allowed’ in gin? As it turns out, pretty much anything you want! I’ve collected a few different components that I’ve found in various gins and listed them below for fun. I’m sure there are many more in various unpublished ‘secret’ recipes.
I’ve tried to categorized these flavor elements by general “type”. These are my categories and I’m sure some botanicals are probably in the wrong spot.
As one would expect the Herbal ingredients dominate. This has historically been the prime source of flavors for Gin. That is followed by Citrus elements, which also have a long history in Gin production. The rest are a mix of old (peppers) and new (lavender?).
With all these botanicals available, mixed in a myriad of ways, there are sure to be Gins for every taste. So many Gins, so little time.
Herbal: Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, Liquorice, Orris root, Angelica root, Angelica seeds, Ginger, Bay leaves, Nutmeg, , Fennel, Cloves, Tea, Coriander, Cassia, Caraway, Cardamom, Sarsaparilla, Anise, Lemon Grass, Pepper (Black, White, Asian)
Citrus: Lemon, Lemon peel, Orange, Orange peel, Lime, Lime peel, Grapefruit, Zest (all types)
Floral: Rose, Lavender, Hibiscus, Elderflower, Chamomile, Mint, Myrtle, Hawthorne, Saffron, Verbena
Fruit: Pear, Apple, Cranberry, Blackberry, Raspberry, Elderberry, Almond, Cucumber, Barberry, Rowan Berry, Blackthorn
Earthy: Moss, Peat, Tree sap (!?)
Thanks for posting the various herbals, citrus & spices. I’ve been looking for a way to pair my love of gin with cigars. Now I will look for complimenting flavor notes. Do you have a resource that tells which gins have what herbals?
I don’t have anything handy right now. That’s a good idea, one I will have to explore. I will let you know what I come up with.
I’ve added a few notes to my “Botanical Elements of Gin” page. I think this is the type of think you’re looking for?
http://shakennotstirred.us/?page_id=781