Gin is a distilled alcoholic spirit predominantly derived from juniper berries, which give it its most fundamental and distinctive flavor. The spirit base is typically grain or malt, and the distillation process allows for the infusion of various botanicals, which can include herbs, spices, flowers, and fruit peels, creating a complex and varied aroma and taste profile.
The primary scent of gin tends to be the fresh, piney aroma of juniper, which is often accompanied by citrus notes such as lemon or orange peel. Herbaceous notes are also common, with ingredients like coriander, angelica root, and orris root adding earthy, floral, and woody nuances. Modern gins may also include more exotic botanicals like lavender, cucumber, or rose, each contributing to a unique and aromatic profile.
Different styles of gin such as London Dry, Old Tom, and contemporary craft gins, differ in their botanical emphasis but generally share the juniper-dominant trait. Overall, gin's scent is complex and can vary widely but is typically characterized by its crisp, botanical, and subtly floral and citrus tones.
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