When you walk through our adult beverage department, you might notice that gin comes in a few distinct categories. While some styles are determined by where they’re made, others have legal specifications, such as how the gin is made. Two great gin varieties include Old Tom and Plymouth.

Old Tom is a historic style with no legal or geographic laws. It’s characterized by mild sweetness, and not as much juniper flavor as London Dry or Plymouth. The style was all but dead not long ago, but luckily a few producers have revived it in recent years.

Give it a try with Hayman’s of London Old Tom Gin. Five generations of the Hayman family are behind this richly flavored gin made with ten botanicals and traditional copper stills. As for the cocktail, try your hand at our Tom Collins recipe! While the touch of lime is unconventional, it’s a great choice for pairing with sweeter gins.

On the other hand, Plymouth Gin is bound by both legal and geographic rules—this style must be made in Plymouth, England. It is usually a little less dry (sweeter) and has more root ingredients in the botanical base, resulting in an earthier flavor.

Black Friars Plymouth Gin is a classic example that’s been made with the original recipe since 1793 in England’s oldest working distillery. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! When you’re ready to make a cocktail, try our Plymouth Rock recipe. Designed specifically for this style of gin, this delightful drink is a perfect aperitif to enjoy with appetizers.

Want to try other gin varieties? Check out London Dry Gin and Craft Gins!