Gin has made a massive comeback. What was once your grandparent's spirit is now the backbone of the craft cocktail revolution. From floral and citrusy to bold and juniper-forward, today's gin landscape has something for everyone. At Buffalo House Liquor & Wines, we carry over 25 gins — from classic London Dry styles to exciting craft expressions.
Not sure where to start? Bombay Sapphire is the perfect entry point — it's smooth, balanced, and makes an incredible gin and tonic. For something unique, try Empress 1908 — it changes color when you add tonic.
Types of Gin You Should Know
Not all gin is created equal. Here are the main styles:
- London Dry — The classic. Juniper-forward with clean, crisp botanicals. Think Beefeater, Tanqueray, and Bombay. Perfect for martinis and G&Ts.
- New Western / Contemporary — Less juniper-focused, more creative with botanicals like cucumber, lavender, elderflower, or citrus. Hendrick's pioneered this style.
- Old Tom — Slightly sweeter than London Dry. Popular in the 18th century and making a comeback in craft cocktails like the Tom Collins.
- Navy Strength — Higher proof (57% ABV). Originally made for the Royal Navy. Punchier and bolder — great for cocktails where you want the gin to shine through.
Our Top Gin Picks
Classic & Versatile
These bottles belong in every home bar:
Beefeater London Dry
$34.99
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Bombay Sapphire
$17.99
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Aviation American Gin
$29.99
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Bombay Dry Gin
$21.99
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Craft & Premium
For the adventurous gin drinker:
Hendrick's Grand Cabaret
$41.99
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Condesa Clasica
$39.99
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Empress Elderflower Rosé
$37.99
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Empress Cucumber Lemon
$37.99
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Classic Gin Cocktails
The Perfect Gin & Tonic
The G&T is the world's most popular gin cocktail, and the key is ratio and garnish:
- 2 oz gin + 4-5 oz quality tonic water
- Fill a tall glass with ice (the more ice, the less dilution)
- Add a lime wheel, cucumber slice, or fresh herbs depending on your gin
- Pro tip: Use Fever-Tree or Q Tonic — cheap tonic will ruin a good gin
Classic Martini
The cocktail that defined sophistication:
- 2.5 oz London Dry gin + 0.5 oz dry vermouth
- Stir (don't shake) with ice for 30 seconds
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass
- Garnish with a lemon twist or olive
Negroni
Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stir with ice, strain over a large ice cube, and garnish with an orange peel. It's bitter, complex, and absolutely addictive.
Hosting a party? Set up a G&T bar with 2-3 gin options, premium tonic, and a variety of garnishes (cucumber, lime, rosemary, grapefruit). Your guests will love customizing their own drinks.
Stop by Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY and let us help you find your perfect gin. We'll point you to the right bottle whether you're making cocktails or sipping it neat.
