There’s no denying it: pink gin has taken the world by storm. Its beautiful blush hue and approachable character have made it a modern classic. But as its popularity has grown, so has the confusion. But you may wonder, "What actually IS pink gin?"
The truth is, the term "pink gin" has two entirely different meanings, which is the source of a great debate among gin lovers.
At Drink Fab, our team of spirit experts believes in a different approach. For us, the journey into the world of gin is one of "Intrepid Discovery." We search for bottles that tell a story—of the passionate maker, the unique terroir, and a deep respect for the craft.
The Great Pink Gin Identity Crisis: Traditional vs. Modern
The single biggest source of confusion is that "pink gin" refers to two completely different drinks.
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Traditional Pink Gin (The Original): This is not a bottled product, but a simple cocktail with naval origins. It’s a classic gin (like Plymouth) with a few dashes of Angostura bitters, which gives it a pinkish hue. It is dry, bitter, and aromatic—nothing sweet about it. Gin purists rightly point out, "Pink gins aren't raspberry flavoured gins... They are gin and Angosturas bitters."
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Modern Pink Gin (The Instagram Version): This is the style that has exploded in popularity. It's a gin that is coloured and flavoured after distillation with fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or rhubarb. It’s designed to be softer, fruitier, and more approachable for people who might find regular gin too dry or juniper-heavy.
This distinction has sparked an "authenticity war" online, with some traditionalists arguing that modern pink gin isn't "real gin." However, quality versions are made using the same distillation process, have the same alcohol content, and contain no added sugar—the fruit flavours are infused, maintaining the technical definition of gin.
What is in a Quality Organic Pink Gin?
While every recipe is a closely guarded secret, a quality modern pink gin starts with the foundation of a classic gin: a neutral spirit infused with juniper. From there, the "pink" element is introduced using real, natural ingredients. Common organic botanicals include:
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Berries: Strawberry and raspberry are the most classic choices, lending a natural, fruity character.
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Rhubarb: Adds a wonderful tartness that balances the sweetness.
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Grapefruit or Blood Orange: Provides a zesty, citrus-forward profile.
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Spices & Florals: Botanicals like rose petals, hibiscus, or pink peppercorns can add aromatic complexity.
The organic difference is crucial here. The producers we partner with use only certified organic fruits and botanicals, ensuring the flavours are pure, vibrant, and free from the artificial, candy-like taste that is a common complaint in forums.
Does pink gin taste different to normal gin?
Yes, absolutely. While a classic London Dry gin is proudly juniper-forward with notes of citrus and spice, pink gin is intentionally softer and more fruit-driven. The juniper is still there, providing the essential "gin" character, but it often takes a backseat to the flavours of the berries and other botanicals. The result is a gin that is generally more approachable, making it a favourite for those who find traditional gin too "piney."
How to Serve Pink Gin (And Tackle the Sweetness Problem)
Perhaps the most common complaint across forums is unexpected sweetness. Users often say even tonic water is "far too sweet and overpowers the already sweet gin."
A beautiful bottle of organic pink gin deserves a thoughtful serve that complements its delicate fruit flavours. The key is to balance, not amplify, the sweetness.
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The Perfect G&T: Forget standard tonic. For the best pink gin and tonic, use a high-quality, neutral or light tonic water (like Fever-Tree Mediterranean) or even soda water. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice, a sprig of mint, or a twist of lime to add acidity.
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What mixer for pink gin? Beyond a light tonic, pink gin is fantastic with soda water for a refreshing, lower-sugar option. A splash of Prosecco also works beautifully to create a spritz-style drink.
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Forum Solution for Overly Sweet Gin: If you ever find a pink gin too sweet, the community advice is unanimous: add acid. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice will cut through the sweetness and bring the gin back into balance.
A Closer Look at Our Organic Selection
Forum users constantly ask, "What's the best pink gin?" Our answer is always to look for producers committed to quality and authenticity. Our collection is a showcase of craftsmanship.
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Antipodes Organic Pink Gin (Australia): This is a stunning example of the best pink gin Australia has to offer. It’s distilled in Australia's first certified organic and carbon-neutral distillery. It gets its vibrant colour and flavour from the infusion of native Kakadu plums, olida, and red fruits. The result is a gin that is both uniquely Australian and exceptionally pure, avoiding the artificial taste many complain about.
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Hastings Distillers Pink Gin Posy (New Zealand): This gin is a beautiful expression of its terroir. It’s a delicate, floral gin infused with 18 different organic botanicals, including rose petals from the distillers' own garden. It’s a sophisticated, elegant gin that showcases the art of organic distillation and stands in stark contrast to mass-market options.
Ready to Discover Your New Favourite?
Choosing an organic pink gin is about more than just a colour; it's a choice for a cleaner, more authentic spirit, crafted with passion and care. It’s an invitation to taste the difference that real, quality, organic ingredients can make.
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