Gin Facts: Everything You Need to Know in One Quick Guide

If you’ve ever wondered why gin shows up in so many bar menus, you’re not alone. This spirit packs a lot of history, flavor, and surprisingly simple science into a tiny bottle. Below are the most useful facts you can share at a party or use to pick your next cocktail.

History and Production

Gin started in the Netherlands in the 1600s as a medicinal tonic called jenever. Dutch doctors believed the juniper berries helped settle stomachs, and the spirit quickly spread to England where it became a favorite among sailors and soldiers. By the 18th century, "gin craze" hit London, and the city’s streets were full of cheap gin stalls.

Modern gin is made by distilling a neutral grain spirit and then adding botanical flavors. Juniper is the legal requirement, but producers can also use coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, and even exotic ingredients like cucumber or rose petals. The two main styles are London dry gin, which is crisp and dry, and distilled (or "old") gin, which retains more of the original grain character.

Gin in Your Glass

One of the biggest myths is that gin is a low‑calorie drink. A standard 1.5‑oz (44ml) serving of 40% ABV gin contains about 97 calories—roughly the same as a shot of vodka. The real calorie count comes from mixers, so a gin & tonic with sugary tonic water can easily double the calories.

When you’re choosing a gin for a cocktail, think about the flavor profile you want. For a classic martini, a clean London dry works best; for a refreshing gin & tonic, a more floral or citrus‑forward gin will shine. If you like a touch of sweetness, try a gin that’s been aged in barrels—these have vanilla and caramel notes that pair well with darker mixers.

Fun fact: Gin was once used as a tax collector’s tool. The British government required gin producers to sell a certain amount of sugar, which helped fund the empire’s expansion. Today, the same tax revenue model still exists in many countries, keeping gin affordable and widely available.

Another quirky tidbit is the “gin‑and‑juice” rule in some bars. Because gin’s botanical mix can clash with strong fruit juices, bartenders often recommend citrus‑based mixers like lime or grapefruit rather than heavy tropical juices. This keeps the gin’s character from getting lost.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sipper, knowing these facts helps you pick the right bottle, avoid unwanted calories, and impress friends with a bit of trivia. Next time you order a drink, ask the bartender which botanicals are in the gin—it’s a great conversation starter and might lead you to discover a new favorite.

Bottom line: gin is a versatile spirit with a rich history, a predictable calorie count, and endless ways to enjoy it. Keep these facts in mind, experiment with a few simple cocktails, and you’ll become the go‑to person for all things gin.