What are Botanicals and How Are They Used in Gin?

One of the most well-known elements of a gin is its botanical qualities. But what are botanicals and what makes them so special when crafting gin? That classic pine taste you notice when you sip on fine gin comes from the juniper berry, which is just one of many fascinating botanicals used in the distilling process.

Gin distillers have an array of botanicals they can elect during the creative process, and this makes gin one the most diversified spirits in the industry. The sheer number of botanicals is extensive so we listed the most popular ingredients used in gin for your convenience.

Juniper Berries

This botanical is the most obvious in the list, but there’s something important to say about it: There is no gin without these berries. Gin derives its name from this very berry, whether it be the French word, genièvre, or the Dutch word, jenever. The juniper berry forever remains the most critical of gin’s botanicals.

Angelica Root

The root of the angelica plant is the most used part, but some distillers also use the seeds and flowers. This root adds a medicinal and earthy component that also binds and holds together other botanicals flavours adding flavourful complexities and depth to the spirit.

Citrus

Lemons and oranges are used for nearly everything, from cooking to cleaning. These citrus fruits are incredibly versatile, and the lemon and orange peels are great botanical ingredients for gin. The peels add zest, distinguishes itself from spices, herbs, and sweetness, and can lift other flavours to perfection.

Coriander

A part of the cilantro plant, the dried seeds are recruited to create a mosaic of flight flavours that include nutty, citrusy and spicy. The seed is crushed for optimal results and seamlessly complements the flavours of the juniper berry.

Cardamom

This unique spice has been described as a eucalyptus flavour with hints of citrus and spice. Cardamom is closely related to ginger and is commonly used in Indian dishes. These bright green pods have somewhat of a medicinal taste and have strong flavours and aromas.

Liquorice Root

When used in gin, liquorice root is ground into a fine powder and also has a similar but different flavour than the candy you’re used to. It has a bittersweet, sugary, and an earthy taste mixed with woody flavours that help gin become a standout spirit.

Orris Root

Although it looks like ginger, orris root is a part of the iris flower and contains s sweet floral aroma that happens to also be present in perfumes. Additionally, it gives off wood and earthy flavours. The root is known to “correct” other aromas in gin that are not as desired.

Cassia Bark

This tree is closely related to cinnamon, and the bark is harvested from the trunk that is then mass-produced into quills (small cylindrical folds). The taste is similar to spicy cinnamon-flavoured foods but slightly sweeter with hints of liquorice.

Nutmeg

This tree produced oval-shaped seeds that are harvested and ground into a fine delicious powder. This adds a sweet, aromatic, warming spice to the gin.

There you have it, theres a comprehensive list of some of the most common gin botanicals. If you enjoyed this article, why not check out The Top 7 Health Benefits of Gin here.

Article credit: The SIP Awards.