For centuries, gin has been defined by its juniper-forward character, with classic styles like London Dry and Plymouth dominating the landscape. But in recent years, a new wave of gin has taken the world by storm: Contemporary Gin. Sometimes called “New Western Gin,” this modern category is breaking the rules, offering creative, unique flavor profiles that appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous drinkers. Let’s explore what contemporary gin is, what makes it special, and why it’s worth a place in your glass.
What Is Contemporary Gin?
Contemporary gin represents a shift in the way gin is made and enjoyed. While juniper remains an essential botanical, it takes a backseat to other flavors in this modern style. Distillers are using innovative techniques and a vast array of botanicals to create gins that highlight citrus, floral, herbal, or even spicy notes.
This creative approach allows distillers to craft gins that cater to a wide range of palates. Whether you prefer something bright and citrusy or complex and earthy, there’s likely a contemporary gin that fits your taste.
Unlike traditional styles like London Dry, contemporary gin is less bound by strict definitions, giving distillers the freedom to experiment and innovate.
How Did Contemporary Gin Emerge?
The rise of contemporary gin is closely tied to the modern craft spirits movement. In the early 2000s, distillers began reimagining traditional spirits, introducing fresh perspectives and pushing boundaries. Gin became a natural canvas for experimentation due to its versatile flavor profile and the wide variety of botanicals that could be used.
Smaller craft distilleries began leading the charge, creating gins that appealed to younger and more adventurous drinkers. These distillers broke away from the juniper-heavy mold, incorporating unconventional botanicals like lavender, cucumber, hibiscus, and even exotic spices.
Today, contemporary gin has become a thriving category, with both craft and established distilleries offering innovative takes on this beloved spirit.
What Makes Contemporary Gin Unique?
Contemporary gin stands out from traditional styles in several ways:
- Botanical Innovation: Distillers use a wide variety of botanicals, often highlighting non-juniper flavors like citrus, flowers, or spices. Ingredients like grapefruit, rose, and pink peppercorn are common in contemporary gin.
- Flavors Beyond Juniper: While juniper is still present, it often plays a supporting role, allowing other flavors to take center stage.
- Creativity and Freedom: Without strict regulations, contemporary gin allows for boundless creativity, leading to unique and unexpected flavor combinations.
- Versatility in Cocktails: Contemporary gin’s diverse flavors make it an excellent choice for a wide range of cocktails, from refreshing highballs to spirit-forward classics.
Popular Contemporary Gin Brands
Many distilleries around the world are embracing the contemporary gin movement. Here are a few standout brands:
Hendrick’s Gin: One of the pioneers of contemporary gin, Hendrick’s features notes of cucumber and rose, creating a soft, floral flavor profile.
Monkey 47: This German gin boasts a complex mix of 47 botanicals, including lingonberries and spruce, for a rich and layered flavor.
Roku Gin: A Japanese gin highlighting yuzu, sakura flower, and green tea for a delicate, citrusy, and aromatic experience.
Aviation Gin: Made in the U.S., Aviation shifts the focus away from juniper, highlighting lavender, cardamom, and sarsaparilla.
Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle Gin: A citrus-forward gin with vibrant lemon flavors, perfect for refreshing cocktails.
The Flavor Profile of Contemporary Gin
The beauty of contemporary gin is its diversity. Each bottle offers a unique combination of flavors, but here are some common themes:
- Floral: Botanicals like lavender, rose, or elderflower bring soft, aromatic notes to the forefront.
- Citrusy: Ingredients like grapefruit, orange, and yuzu create a bright, zesty character.
- Herbal: Contemporary gins often incorporate herbs like thyme, basil, or mint for a fresh, savory edge.
- Spicy: Unconventional spices such as pink peppercorn, cinnamon, or ginger add warmth and complexity.
This variety makes contemporary gin a playground for flavor exploration.
How to Enjoy Contemporary Gin
Contemporary gin’s unique flavors shine in both simple and complex cocktails. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
Neat or On the Rocks: Sip contemporary gin neat or over ice to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors.
Gin & Tonic: Pair with a high-quality tonic water and a complementary garnish, such as grapefruit for citrus-forward gins or rosemary for herbal varieties.
Martini: Use a floral or citrus-heavy contemporary gin in a martini for a fresh twist on the classic recipe.
Creative Cocktails: Experiment with bold flavors. Try pairing floral gins with elderflower liqueur or citrusy gins with fresh lemon juice.
Creative Cocktails Featuring Contemporary Gin
Cucumber & Basil Gin Fizz
- 2 oz (6 cl) contemporary gin (like Hendrick’s)
- 1 oz (3 cl) fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz (1.5 cl) simple syrup
- Soda water
- Garnish with cucumber slices and a basil leaf
Yuzu & Tonic
- 2 oz (6 cl) Japanese gin (like Roku)
- Premium tonic water
- Garnish with a slice of fresh yuzu or lemon
Pink Peppercorn Collins
- 2 oz (6 cl) contemporary gin (like Monkey 47)
- 1 oz (3 cl) fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz (2.25 cl) simple syrup
- Soda water
- Garnish with crushed pink peppercorns
Lavender Martini
- 2 oz (6 cl) contemporary gin (like Aviation)
- 1/2 oz (1.5 cl) dry vermouth
- 1/4 oz (0.75 cl) lavender syrup
- Garnish with a sprig of lavender
Why Choose Contemporary Gin?
Contemporary gin offers a fresh perspective on a traditional spirit. Here’s why it’s worth exploring:
- Diverse Flavors: Whether you prefer floral, citrusy, or spicy notes, there’s a contemporary gin to match your palate.
- Creative Cocktails: Its unique flavor profiles inspire creativity in mixology, making it a favorite for bartenders and home enthusiasts alike.
- Broad Appeal: Contemporary gin’s softer juniper presence makes it an approachable choice for those new to gin.
Breaking the Mold, One Sip at a Time
Contemporary gin is redefining what gin can be. By embracing bold flavors and creative botanicals, it offers a fresh, modern take on this classic spirit. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast looking for something new or a casual drinker curious about innovative spirits, contemporary gin invites you to explore its world of endless possibilities.
So next time you’re at the bar or stocking your home collection, reach for a bottle of contemporary gin. With its boundary-pushing flavors and versatility, it’s sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. Cheers!