The process of distillation to produce essential oils was already known in antiquity. In the Middle Ages, this knowledge was preserved in monasteries — monks used herbs to distill elixirs that were rooted in the medieval monastic tradition. These high-proof distillates were also called aqua ardens (burning water).

It was not until the 16th century that alcohol began to establish itself as a recreational drink. At the same time, methods for distilling grain were developed — from these roots emerged regional spirits such as Scotch whisky, French cognac, or Russian vodka.

Genever — An original from the Netherlands

The exact origins of gin are not clearly established. The Dutch Genever is considered its predecessor. In the 17th century, the German-Dutch physician Franz de la Boe distilled a juniper schnapps from juniper berries (Dutch Genever) in Leiden. The distillate quickly gained great popularity, and the doctor commissioned distilleries to produce Genever to meet the population's demand.

From Genever to London Dry Gin

In the late 17th century, Genever arrived in England via Dutch soldiers and William III of Orange. The British variant, gin, quickly developed from it. In the 18th century, London experienced the infamous "Gin Craze" — a period when gin was extremely cheap and available in large quantities.

It was not until the mid-19th century, with the advent of column distillation, that the famous London Dry Gin was created — dry, clear, and with a dominant juniper note. This style continues to shape the global gin market to this day.

The Gin Renaissance

After decades in which gin was considered old-fashioned, it experienced a remarkable renaissance starting in the early 2000s. New, small-scale distilleries are experimenting with unusual botanicals — from bergamot and hibiscus to regional herbs such as heather or linden blossoms. Today, there are thousands of gin brands worldwide, each with its own distinctive character.

Classification

• London Dry Gin: Dry, clear, dominant juniper note, no additives after distillation
• Dry Gin: Dry, but less strictly regulated than London Dry
• New Western Gin: Botanicals rather than juniper in the foreground
• Old Tom Gin: Slightly sweeter style from the 18th century
• Plymouth Gin: Protected designation of origin — only from Plymouth
• Sloe Gin: Liqueur made from gin with sloe berries