What defines a Fruit Gin?

A fruit gin simply refers to the infusion of an already distilled gin by fresh or dried fruit. Fruit gin is an increasingly popular variation of traditional gin that combines the classic juniper-forward spirit with vibrant fruit flavours. A fruit gin should have a minimum of 40% ABV and should not be confused with a gin liqueur. By infusing or macerating berries, citrus, rhubarb, or other exotic fruits, fruit gin transforms the neutral spirit into a sweet, aromatic, and visually appealing beverage. Unlike London Dry gin, which emphasizes herbal and botanical complexity, fruit gin balances botanical notes with natural fruit sweetness, making it ideal for summer cocktails, spritzers, or sipping over ice. Whether used in classic cocktails like the Gin & Tonic or in innovative mixology creations, fruit gin provides both flavour and versatility, appealing to both casual drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts seeking a refreshing twist on traditional gin.

A dark berry fruit gin simply refers to the infusion of an already distilled gin by fresh or dried fruit.

A fruit gin simply refers to the infusion of an already distilled gin by fresh or dried fruit. Historically, fruit gin was made using seasonal hedgerows and orchard fruits, and berries. Fruit gin is defined by the infusion of fruit flavours into traditional gin, offering a sweeter, more aromatic alternative to standard London Dry gin. The process typically involves macerating fresh, dried, or preserved fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, oranges, lemons, or even exotic fruits directly in the gin, or incorporating them during distillation. This allows the natural sugars, acids, and aromatic compounds of the fruit to blend with the classic juniper-based spirit, producing a balanced, flavourful, and visually appealing drink.

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Fruit gins maintain the characteristic juniper notes of gin while introducing a vibrant sweetness, often enhanced with complementary botanicals like coriander, angelica, or citrus peel. The resulting spirit is versatile and can be served neat, over ice, with tonic, or in creative cocktails. Popular fruit gin cocktails include the Berry Gin Fizz, Citrus Gin Spritz, and Raspberry Gin & Tonic.

When enjoying fruit gin, consider pre-chilling glasses to enhance aroma, using fresh garnishes that complement the fruit flavour, and pairing it with light foods or desserts to highlight its sweetness. Craft gin enthusiasts often experiment with seasonal fruits to create limited-edition or homemade infusions, expanding the flavour possibilities.

In conclusion, fruit gin bridges the gap between traditional gin and modern mixology trends, offering both refreshing taste and aromatic complexity. Its versatility, vibrant flavour, and aesthetic appeal make it a favourite among cocktail lovers and a staple in summer bars, home bars, and experimental mixology alike.