Which ingredient is NOT typically used in the production of gin?

The production of gin primarily revolves around its defining characteristic—juniper berries, which give gin its distinct flavor. Other botanicals such as herbs, spices, and citrus peel can also be included to enhance its complexity. While there are various styles of gin that might incorporate an array of flavors, the essential botanical that must be present in all gin is juniper.

Fermented grains are predominantly associated with the production of other spirits, such as whiskey and vodka, where the grains undergo fermentation to create ethanol. Although some gins may use a neutral spirit made from grains, they aren’t a direct ingredient in the gin itself; instead, they serve as a base. In gin production, the focus is more on botanical infusion rather than the source material of the base spirit, which is why fermented grains are not typically regarded as an ingredient in the creation of gin.