Black and Gold Distillery

Juniper berries Gin is the cornerstone of gin, giving the spirit its distinctively piney, aromatic flavor. Derived from the evergreen shrub Juniperus communis, these small, dark berries are essential to gin production, with the legal definition of gin requiring that juniper be the dominant flavor. Their role dates back to gin’s origins in the 17th century, when Dutch physician Franciscus Sylvius created "genever," a medicinal spirit infused with juniper berries, believed to have health benefits. Juniper’s bold, resinous taste defines gin’s profile, offering a crisp, sharp flavor often described as fresh, woody, or slightly peppery. While juniper is the foundation, gin distillers often experiment with other botanicals—such as coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels—to create unique flavor combinations. However, no matter how many botanicals are added, juniper remains the star of the show. Citrus Gin brings more than just flavor to gin. They also contribute to its aroma...