What is Gin?
Gin is a distilled spirit defined by its prominent botanical flavour, derived primarily from juniper berries. According to European spirit regulations, gin must be bottled at a minimum alcohol by volume (ABV) of 37.5%.
As the foundation of the timeless Gin & Tonic, gin is a staple across world-class cocktail menus. But what truly defines this storied spirit? From its rich heritage and distinctive botanical character to its most celebrated styles, The Hari Hong Kong invites you to explore the origins of gin, discover its key varieties, and master a selection of effortless gin cocktails to try at home.
Gin is a distilled spirit defined by its prominent botanical flavour, derived primarily from juniper berries. According to European spirit regulations, gin must be bottled at a minimum alcohol by volume (ABV) of 37.5%.
Gin traces its roots back to 16th-century Holland and Genever—a juniper-based spirit originally created by a Dutch physician as a medicinal remedy for renal ailments.
During the Anglo-Dutch wars, British soldiers stationed in the Low Countries discovered the spirit (coining the term “Dutch Courage”) and brought it back home to Britain. Over the centuries, gin evolved from an unrefined, heavily sweetened spirit into the crisp, botanical elixir we celebrate today.
Today, gin serves as the quintessential base for some of the world’s most iconic and enduring cocktails, including the timeless Dry Martini, the refreshing Gin & Tonic, and the sophisticated Negroni.
Far from a single-note spirit, gin encompasses a diverse spectrum of styles shaped by history, distillation techniques, and botanical profiles. The most celebrated styles include:
The world’s most iconic and widely enjoyed style. Crucially, “London Dry” denotes a strict method of distillation rather than a geographic location—meaning it can be crafted anywhere in the world. Union regulations mandate that no artificial flavourings, colourings, or sweeteners may be added after distillation, resulting in an exceptionally crisp, bone-dry spirit dominated by clear juniper notes.
The historical ancestor of modern gin, originating in the Netherlands and Belgium. Distinct from contemporary styles, Genever is distilled from a malted grain mash (malt wine), imparting a rich, full-bodied character with distinct whiskey-like notes of toasted grain and warm spice.
Unlike London Dry, Plymouth Gin is a protected geographical indication, legally required to be distilled in the historic naval city of Plymouth, England. It boasts a softer, rounder palate with earthy root botanicals, offering a gentler, harmoniously balanced alternative to the sharp punch of traditional juniper.
Serving as the historical bridge between Genever and London Dry, Old Tom Gin is characteristically rich and slightly sweet. Traditionally softened with small amounts of sugar or sweet botanicals like liquorice, it offers a fuller, smoother mouthfeel—making it the essential base for classic revival cocktails like the Tom Collins.
A modern movement that redefines traditional boundaries. In Contemporary Gin, juniper steps back from its dominant role to allow an adventurous array of secondary botanicals—ranging from delicate florals and citrus peels to exotic spices—to take centre stage. Hendrick’s, renowned for its infusion of crisp cucumber and Bulgarian rose, stands as a prime example of this inventive style.
With an array of exceptional craft spirits available today, selecting the right gin comes down to personal taste and signature serve. From historic London distillers to Japanese craft pioneers, these globally acclaimed brands showcase the versatile art of gin:
As one of the world’s most versatile spirits, gin forms the foundation of countless timeless drinks. Here are five classic gin cocktails to showcase its complex botanicals and diverse flavour profiles:
The ultimate classic and most accessible way to appreciate gin. Simply mix one part gin with two to four parts premium tonic water to taste over crisp ice. Garnish with a fresh wedge of lime or lemon to highlight the spirit’s botanical undertones.
Widely celebrated as the “King of Cocktails”, the Martini is an icon of timeless elegance. Crafted by stirring five parts gin with one-part dry vermouth, it delivers a clean, spirit-forward profile. Garnished with a green olive or a twist of lemon peel, it allows the quality of your chosen gin to take centre stage.
Hailing from Italy, this bittersweet classic is celebrated for its exquisite structural balance. Stirred in equal parts—one part gin, one part Campari, and one part sweet vermouth—it harmonises herbal bitterness with rich fruit sweetness, making it a sophisticated aperitif of exceptional depth.
A brisk, effervescent highball that offers the crisp delight of a botanical spiked lemonade. Shaken with two parts gin, one part fresh lemon juice, and half a part simple syrup, it is strained into a tall ice-filled glass and topped with sparkling soda water. Traditionally crafted with Old Tom Gin, its lively balance of sweet and tart notes makes it an ideal afternoon refreshment.
A minimalist icon of elegance from the sour family, highlighting the sharp interaction between gin and citrus. Built on a classic 2:1 ratio of gin to fresh lime juice (or lime cordial to taste), it delivers a bright, palate-cleansing tartness that elevates the spirit’s natural botanical bouquet.
After exploring the foundational classics of gin, those seeking a sip of refined modern elegance need look no further than The Hari 75—the signature cocktail of The Hari Hong Kong.
Inspired by the historic French 75, The Hari 75 artfully reimagines a cocktail traditionally named after powerful artillery into a graceful, contemporary piece of liquid art. At its heart lies the hotel’s very own The Hari Gin, a celebrated spirit honoured at the World Gin Awards for its complex botanical profile.
This exceptional gin base is elevated with delicate floral notes from Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne, then balanced with a silk-smooth syrup and vibrant Amalfi lemon. The result is a luminous cocktail bursting with crisp citrus, subtle sweetness, and effervescent sophistication.
A true embodiment of modern luxury, this signature serve is available across all dining destinations at The Hari Hong Kong, including Lucciola Restaurant & Bar, The Lounge, Zoku Restaurant, and The Terrace.
Yes, absolutely. While gin is most commonly enjoyed mixed, high-quality gins—especially complex contemporary or aged styles—can be appreciated neat or over ice to fully experience their botanical nuances.
The ABV of gin varies depending on the style and brand. Most standard gins range between 40% and 47% ABV, while specialized styles like “Navy Strength” gin reach 57% ABV or higher.
Beyond gin, the remaining foundational spirits used in mixology are Whisky, Tequila, Rum, Vodka, and Brandy.
References：
1. Liquorama, <What Is Gin? The complete Guide To Understanding Gin>, https://liquorama.com/blogs?p=what-is-gin-the-complete-guide-to-understanding-gin&srsltid=AfmBOorVxKD6lSQHa_lo4vu_A4l9zFwt1U84DEZR4feOZgyq-cDJ-wDS
2. The Henly Distillery, <Which Country Invented Gin: Tracing Its Historical Roots>, https://thehenleydistillery.co.uk/blog/which-country-invented-gin/?srsltid=AfmBOoo5WvXsjD4LwawCeSw8Cwa_px_kiACM83xfymkbZZGjMCN0bUF0
