Gin is a berry flavoured spirit.
Absinthe ( [ ˈæbsɪnθ ] or [ ˈæbsænθ ] French : [ apsɛ̃t ] ) is historically described as a distilled , highly alcoholic ( 45 -- 74 % ABV / 90 -- 148 U.S. proof ) beverage . Gin is a spirit which derives its predominant flavour from juniper berries ( Juniperus communis ) . Gin is one of the broadest categories of spirits , represented by products of various origins , styles , and flavour profiles that all revolve around juniper as a common ingredient .