Unlocking the secrets of dry gins: Tradition, botanicals and flavour profiles

Dry gins. Some say they all taste pretty much the same, but a true connoisseur knows that's far from the truth. Their common characteristic is that they don't contain any artificial flavourings or added sweeteners, and all the flavours you can detect are natural, from botanical origin. Dry gins are generally clean and crisp, with pine-forward notes of juniper as the dominant element.

But the bouquet of other botanicals used can significantly impact the flavour profile of dry gin. Even when we look back in history, we can notice that the trends in the production of dry gins have been somewhat changing, thereby shaping distinct periods and styles into which individual dry gins can be classified.

In typical dry and London dry gins, which began to gain popularity in the 19th century, we can primarily detect the following spices: juniper, coriander, cardamom, angelica, and citrus peels.

Plymouth-style gins, on the other hand, have a more earthy and less juniper-forward taste.

In recent decades, we're witnessing the rise of contemporary and craft gins that are deviating from the traditional juniper-forward profile, experimenting with a wider array of botanicals, pushing the boundaries of traditional styles, and leading to the creation of new and innovative dry gins while creating unique and diverse flavour profiles.

What about our Parson Classy?



One of Slovenia's greatest specialists on spirit drinks and internationally renowned expert, Majda Debevc, has no doubts: “The sample of your Classy dry gin seems to be very balanced in smell and taste, similar to classical gins before 1987. Such gins are really classics that will continue to be the backbone of the gin category in the future!"

The name obviously says it all. As classic as it gets: Classy!

Now let's meet botanicals that make our gin as tasty (and classy) as it is!

Juniper contributes a robust pine-forward essence with resinous undertones and a subtle hint of woody spice. Bitter orange provides a tangy and slightly bitter citrus flavour with floral and herbal undertones. Lemon adds a bright and zesty citrus notes with refreshing acidity. Angelica imparts a musky and earthy aroma with herbal and peppery notes, contributing to the overall complexity. Coriander brings warm and spicy undertones with citrusy and floral accents, enhancing the aromatic profile. Last but not least – cassis, which offers a rich and fruity flavour with a balance of sweetness and tartness, often reminiscent of blackcurrant with hints of jammy sweetness and sharp sourness.



With theory wrapped up, we’re left with only one last task: to pour ourselves a perfect gin & tonic and detect all the marvelous flavors described above!