How to read this list
Gin splits into a few rough camps. Classic London Dry (Tanqueray, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire) is the safe house gin, juniper-forward and built for cocktails. Contemporary or new-wave gin (Hendrick’s, The Botanist, Sipsmith) leans softer and more aromatic. Old Tom is a sweetened style, more historical than common. Genever and navy-strength are their own thing.
Most home bars need exactly two gins. One classic London Dry for everyday cocktails, one contemporary or craft gin for sipping or showcase drinks. The pages here will help you pick both.
What gin actually suits which cocktail
Negroni, Martini, gin and tonic, French 75: any London Dry works. Pick by personal preference.
Aviation, Last Word, Bramble: needs a gin with botanical complexity. Plymouth, Beefeater 24, Sipsmith VJOP all shine here.
Fruit-forward cocktails (Tom Collins, Bee’s Knees, gin sour): juniper-led gin makes these brighter, contemporary gin makes these softer. Both work.
Cucumber drinks and summer punches: Hendrick’s was made for these. Substitute at your peril.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people ask about the Bottle Library.
What is the best gin for a Negroni?
Beefeater is the classic Negroni gin. Big juniper, dry, no soft edges. Tanqueray works equally well. Bombay Sapphire makes a softer, more drinkable Negroni. Hendrick’s is the wrong choice for a Negroni: too floral. Read the full Beefeater and Tanqueray pages for the deeper take.
Is Bombay Sapphire good gin?
Yes for cocktails. It is one of the best mixing gins you can buy at supermarket prices. It is not the gin to sip neat or pair with bitters. Read our Bombay Sapphire page for the full tasting notes.
What gin should beginners buy?
Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire. Both are widely available, sit at the right price band, and work in every classic gin cocktail. Buy one, learn what gin tastes like, then experiment.
London Dry vs contemporary gin: what is the difference?
London Dry must take all flavouring from natural botanicals during distillation, with juniper as the dominant note. Contemporary gins are more flexible: lower juniper, more unusual botanicals, sometimes added flavouring after distillation. London Dry is the cocktail standard. Contemporary gin is more interesting in single-spirit drinks.
What is the difference between gin and vodka?
Gin is vodka with botanicals. Both are neutral grain spirits at base. Gin gets steeped or vapour-infused with juniper and other botanicals, vodka does not. The difference between a vodka martini and a gin martini is gin’s botanical complexity.
