What Is the Difference Between London Dry and Contemporary Gin?

London Dry is a legally defined production style with strict rules, while contemporary gin is a looser, more flavour-flexible modern approach.

These two terms describe fundamentally different things: one is a regulated production method, the other is a loose stylistic label.

London Dry Gin — a defined style, not a location

Despite the name, London Dry Gin doesn't have to be made in London — it's a production standard that can be followed anywhere. Broadly, London Dry requires:

• All flavouring must come from natural botanicals redistilled with the base spirit (no flavour added after distillation, aside from a small amount of water to adjust strength)
• No added sugar or sweetening beyond a very small legal allowance
• No artificial colouring

The result is typically a crisp, juniper-forward, "dry" style — hence the name.

Contemporary (or "New Western") gin

"Contemporary gin" isn't a legally regulated term — it's an industry-coined label for gins that don't follow the strict London Dry rulebook, and that often:

• Dial back juniper slightly to let other botanicals (citrus, florals, native or local ingredients) lead
• May add flavouring after distillation, or use compounding/infusion methods
• Explore sweeter, fruitier or more floral profiles

Most modern New Zealand gins that emphasise native botanicals like mānuka, kawakawa or horopito fall into this "contemporary" bucket, since they're often built to showcase a specific local botanical character rather than strictly follow the London Dry formula.

Which is "better"?

Neither — they're different goals. London Dry is prized for its classic, no-frills, cocktail-reliable character (a gin and tonic or Martini "just works" with it). Contemporary gin is prized for individuality and showcasing unusual or local botanicals. Many drinkers enjoy both depending on the occasion.