Bright and botanical, these gin cocktails let this herbal spirit take centerstage. They’re packed with layers of flavor fit for any occasion — all you’ll need is the perfect bottle!
DISCLAIMER
*This post may contain affiliate links, meaning Feast + West may receive commissions for purchases made through those links — at no cost to you. All opinions are our own. Please read our full disclosure for more information.
Your ultimate guide to gin cocktails
Ah, gin. Out of all the bottles on the bar cart *, sometimes it can be the most intimidating.
With flavors that can be herbal, floral, botanical or earthy, it can also be spicy, fruity, piney (like pine trees) or grassy (like grass). Some people find it to be an acquired taste — admittedly I was one of those people! But once you find a drink that truly highlights its strengths, I know it will quickly become a favorite!
By selecting the right type of gin and giving it flavors that bring out its layers, you’ll find yourself with a drink fit for any occasion.
How to choose a gin
Like many spirits, each bottle of gin brings its own unique flavors to the bar.
- London dry gin must be produced in London, otherwise it’s just dry gin. what most people know as gin. There are no sweeteners in this variety of gin, so juniper and the other botanicals are the primary flavor. It’s great for drinks like gin & tonics, aviations and dry martinis.
- Plymouth gin is a rich gin that’s only made in Plymouth, England. It is clean and dry, with a subtle sweetness that isn’t found in dry gin. You can use it interchangeably for a London dry depending on your preferences.
- Old Tom gin is more full-bodied and sweeter, making it best for the Tom Collins, the gin rickey or the Martinez.
- Genever is the original gin, more sip-able than other varieties thanks to its less herbal taste. You can drink it straight or mix it in a John Collins or a Gin Fix.
If you prefer not to imbibe, or want to give guests another option, non-alcoholic gin gives your drinks depth without the booze. You can pick up a bottle at the store or even make your own zero-proof gin — this allows you to make it more savory or more sweet, depending on what you prefer. Try your desired substitute in a virgin mule or virgin Bloody Mary for a delicious drink sans alcohol!
zero-proof gin alternatives
Buy Now → 
Buy Now → 
Buy Now → *
Don’t miss Gin 101 where you can learn more about which bottles to buy.
What to mix with gin
Gin is packed with botanical flavors, so finding other flavors that compliment those make for a great cocktail.
Floral notes play into the botanical elements that gin brings to the table. For example, elderflower or rose, like in the elderflower gin cocktail and rose gimlet, create light drinks that are both delicious and elegant.
Fruit flavors, especially citrus, balance the bite that gin can sometimes have, diluting the alcohol while adding brightness. Herbs can have the same effect while complimenting the varied flavors of the spirit. Lime juice, grapefruit juice and lemon juice are some I always have on hand for a quick cocktail. The blackberry gin smash is one of my favorites, with layers of flavors that create a beverage like a farmers market in a glass. Tonic water * or club soda can also help mellow out the flavors — the success of the G&T is a testament to that!
Don’t stop there! These pairings set you up for success, but while gin may be known for cocktails that hold a classic elegance, it can also be lighthearted and fun. Just ask the dill pickle martini, a sour and savory delight that’s a pickle lover’s dream!
The best gin cocktails
Whether you’re already a fan of gin or are searching for a cocktail to make you fall in love, there’s a drink for you on this list:
Leave a Reply