Gin is a versatile spirit with several distinct styles, each characterized by different production methods, flavor profiles, and botanical compositions. Some of the most common types of gin include:

1. London Dry Gin: This is one of the most traditional styles of gin and is known for its dry taste and dominant juniper flavor. Despite its name, London Dry Gin can be produced anywhere in the world. It must be made using natural botanicals during distillation and cannot contain any added sweeteners or colorings after distillation.

2. Plymouth Gin: Plymouth Gin is a style of gin that originated in Plymouth, England. It has a slightly sweeter and less juniper-forward taste compared to London Dry Gin. Plymouth Gin must be made in Plymouth and is characterized by its earthy and aromatic flavor profile.

3. Old Tom Gin: Old Tom Gin is a historical style of gin that predates London Dry Gin. It is slightly sweeter than London Dry Gin but drier than Genever. Old Tom Gin was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and has experienced a revival in recent years. It often features botanicals like licorice or sugar to give it a sweeter taste.

4. Genever (Geneva or Jenever): Genever is a traditional Dutch and Belgian style of gin that dates back to the 16th century. Unlike other styles of gin, Genever is made from a malt wine base, giving it a more pronounced malt flavor. It can be further classified into two categories: Jonge (young) Genever, which is lighter and more neutral in flavor, and Oude (old) Genever, which has a richer, maltier taste.

5. New Western or Contemporary Gin: This is a newer style of gin that has gained popularity in recent years. New Western or Contemporary gins often feature a wider range of botanicals beyond juniper, resulting in more diverse flavor profiles. These gins may incorporate unconventional botanicals such as fruits, herbs, and spices, leading to unique and innovative taste experiences.

6. Navy Strength Gin: Navy Strength Gin is a style of gin that is bottled at a higher alcohol content, typically around 57% ABV or higher. It was historically produced for British naval officers, as the higher alcohol content ensured that the gin would still ignite if it came into contact with gunpowder. Navy Strength Gin often has a bold and robust flavor profile.

7. Barrel-Aged Gin: Gin aged in wooden barrels, which imparts additional flavors and complexity similar to whiskey or rum. It may have notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel.

8. Sloe Gin: A flavored gin made by infusing sloe berries (a type of wild plum) into gin. It has a sweet and fruity flavor profile and is often enjoyed as a liqueur.

9. Compound Gin: A simple style made by steeping botanicals in neutral spirit without redistillation. It's less common and generally of lower quality compared to distilled gins.

10. Flavored Gin: Gins infused with additional flavors beyond the traditional botanicals. This can include fruit-flavored gins, floral gins, or herb-infused gins.

11. Botanical Gins: Gins that highlight specific botanicals, such as citrus-forward gins, herbal gins, or spice-forward gins.

12. Craft Gins: Gins produced by smaller, independent distilleries, often with a focus on unique flavors and artisanal production methods.

These are the main categories and styles of gin, but within each category, there can be significant variation in flavor, aroma, and production techniques.