With soaring temperatures and long, sunny days, gin becomes the default choice if you are looking for something light and citrusy, and botanical flavours intrigue you. But with so many styles and flavour profiles available—from classic London Dry gins to modern floral or fruit-infused variations—picking the right bottle can feel overwhelming.
Gin’s versatility is what makes it such a popular summer spirit. Its blend of botanicals adds depth and character to cocktails, while its crisp, dry nature ensures every sip feels clean and cooling. Whether you’re planning poolside parties, laid-back garden brunches, or simply looking for the perfect companion for a quiet evening on the balcony, there’s a gin out there to match your mood and menu.
In this guide, we simplify the process of choosing the best gin for summer sipping. From understanding key botanicals to identifying your preferred flavour profiles, we’ll help you make informed choices that match your personal taste and seasonal vibes. So, if you’re ready to build your summer gin collection or upgrade your G&T game, read on for expert-approved tips to pick the right gin for the season.
Understanding the Different Styles of Gin
- London Dry Gin: Clean, Classic, and Crisp
London Dry isn’t about geography—it’s a style. Expect a clean, juniper-forward flavour with a dry, crisp finish. Perfect for traditionalists who love a no-nonsense G&T or a dry martini.
Best For: Classic Gin & Tonics, Negronis, or martinis.
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Cambridge Dry Gin
This refined English gin is crafted with locally sourced botanicals, delivering a clean, crisp profile. Delicate, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant.
- Contemporary Gins
Contemporary gins are where things get exciting. These gins often showcase bold botanicals—florals, spices, and fruits. Great for those who like their spirits a little adventurous.
Best For: Creative cocktails, gin sours, or spritzes.
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Mohulo Gin
This Indian craft gin layers fragrant spices and citrus with a balanced backbone. It’s vibrant yet smooth—ideal for modern mixology.
- Citrus Gins
If your vibe is fresh, zesty, and beach-ready, citrus gins are your best friend. These gins highlight lemon peel, orange zest, or exotic citrus like yuzu for an ultra-refreshing experience.
💡 Best For: Basil Gimlets, or gin mojitos or with mixers.
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Paul John Malhar Citrus Indian Craft Gin
Bright, aromatic, and bursting with lemon peel and coriander, this award-winning Indian gin is practically made for warm afternoons and coastal escapes.
- Flavoured Gins
From berries to cucumber, flavoured gins are easy-drinking and crowd-pleasing. They bring a fruit-forward charm without the syrupy heaviness of flavoured vodkas.
💡 Best For: Gin frosé, spritzes, or fruity gin and tonics.
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Jodhpur Spicy Distilled Gin
While not a typical fruit gin, its spiced profile with a peppery kick makes it perfect for those who like bold flavour without sweetness. Try it with tonic and orange peel for a fiery twist.
- Japanese Craft Gin
Clean, elegant, and subtly layered, Japanese gins bring a Zen-like balance to your glass. With ingredients like yuzu, sansho pepper, and cherry blossom, they’re delicate yet distinctive.
💡 Best For: Minimalist G&Ts or sipping neat over ice.
Try This:
Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin
Crafted with six Japanese botanicals, Roku is both floral and spicy, with a soft, silky mouthfeel. It’s a top pick for a refined summer sip.
How to Drink Gin in the Summer
- Keep It Simple: Let the gin shine. A premium gin deserves quality tonic and fresh garnishes—think citrus slices, cucumber, or herbs like basil and rosemary.
- Serve It Right: Fill a copa glass or tall highball with ice, pour 30–45ml of gin, and top with chilled tonic or soda. Always garnish with something that complements the gin’s botanicals.
- Try It Frozen: Yes, frozen gin cocktails are a thing. Blend your favourite gin with citrus juice, ice, and a hint of sugar syrup for a frosé-style treat.
How To Choose The Perfect Glass For Your Gin
- For London Dry: Go for a balloon or copa glass. Garnish with lime, juniper berries, or rosemary.
- For Citrus Gins: A highball glass with lemon, grapefruit peel, or mint works beautifully.
- For Contemporary Gins: Try herbs like thyme or basil—whatever matches the gin’s bold notes.
Looking for amazing spirits recommendations? Click here to check out the winners of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 edition.
