Types of Gin Explained: Find Your Gin Style
Types of gin explained: classic juniper-led London dry, floral and citrus gins, one bottle of each, and how to taste them side by side.
In short
- The main types of gin are classic juniper-led, floral and citrus, and gin is not one flavour.
- Classic gins are juniper led and dry, floral gins are softer, and citrus gins are bright.
- Pour three small G&Ts with the same tonic and see which one you reach for again.

Gordon's London Dry
The traditional style: dry and great with tonic.
A traditional London dry gin that is ideal for a gin and tonic.
- Style
- London dry
- Tastes like
- Juniper, citrus, dry finish
- Per nip
- About $1.74

Hendrick's
Softer, with cucumber and rose.
Cucumber and rose give a fresh, floral gin over classic juniper and citrus. Smooth, balanced and refreshing.
- Style
- Floral gin
- Strength
- 41.4% ABV
- Per nip
- About $3.48

Malfy Con Limone
Bright Italian lemon.
Bold Italian lemon flavour balanced by classic botanicals, with a bright citrus and smooth juniper finish.
- Style
- Citrus gin
- Tastes like
- Lemon and juniper
- Per nip
- About $2.61
What garnish goes with gin?
Citrus for classic gins, something fresh for floral ones.
A strip of lemon or orange peel suits a classic or citrus gin. A slice of cucumber suits a floral one.

The Classic gift box
Buying gin as a gift?
Choose a gin and we box it with treats, wrapped and delivered NZ wide.
- Includes
- Chocolate, savoury nibble, something sweet
- You choose
- The bottle
Quick answers
What are the main gin styles?
Classic and juniper led, floral and softer, and bright and citrus. Many gins sit between them.
What garnish goes with gin?
Lemon or orange peel for classic and citrus gins, cucumber for floral ones.
What tonic should I use?
A light or classic tonic works with most gins. Use the same one when you compare.
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