The 4 Best Gins for Different Types of Cocktails

bon appétit magazine

Sue Li



After pouring a perfect G&T--or two--you might fall back in love with gin. But don't be faithful to the first one you try: Gin varies by type and the kinds of botanicals it was distilled with. We asked Danny Shapiro from Chicago's Scofflaw to sum up the most popular styles and the best ways to enjoy them.

LONDON DRY Tastes of pepper and pine, with a citrusy finish. Nice in a classic Gin and Tonic. Try: Tanqueray, $22

GENEVER Malty, buttery, and heavy on the juniper, this Dutch spirit is the grandfather of gins. Mix it in a gin-based Old-Fashioned. Try: Bols Genever, $35

NEW WESTERN These small-batch gins are distilled with distinctive ingredients. Hendrick's is ideal in cucumber Martinis. Try: Hendrick's, $35

OLD TOM On the sweeter side, with strong anise notes. Use it in a Tom Collins. Try: Hayman's Old Tom Gin, $25
More from Bon Appétit:
25 Ways to Use Sriracha
7 Most Common French Toast Mistakes
The Best-Ever Homemade Fries