What’s the difference between “London Dry” Gin & Genever Gin?
Gin is a clear spirit based on barley and rye to which a mix of selected herbs and spices are added. These flavorings, known as “botanicals,” include aniseed, coriander, fruit peels and juniper berry. The name gin in fact comes from the French word “genièvre,” meaning juniper. In the 17th century, a Dutch doctor developed the basic formula for gin as a medicine (well done!) Juniper berries were believed to contain therapeutic oils that could provide the early inhabitants of Holland with an inexpensive medicine. Whether it healed the sick or not, it did make them very happy. Carried from Holland to England by soldiers and other travelers, the English adapted this rich, sweet juniper flavored drink to their palates. By the end of the 19th century, they had formulated a lighter, less pronounced juniper flavor that would be more widely accepted. This blend was known as “London Dry” and it is now the most popular type of gin throughout the world. Different gin manufacturers use different ty
