If you've typed "best craft gin in Ontario" into a search bar lately — welcome. You've found your answer.

The craft gin scene in Canada has exploded over the last few years. Where there used to be two or three options (most of them imported), drinkers in Ontario are now spoiled for choice. But with more options comes more confusion. What actually makes a good gin? What should you be looking for? And is there a great craft gin you can buy online and have at your door tomorrow?

Spoiler: yes. It's Ginslinger — and here's everything you need to know.

What Makes a Gin a "Craft" Gin?

The word "craft" gets thrown around a lot. In the spirits world, it generally refers to small-batch production at an independent distillery, using quality botanicals and hands-on attention to the distillation process — as opposed to mass-produced spirits made in enormous industrial facilities.

What craft gin should taste like:

• Juniper-forward — gin without juniper is just flavoured vodka
• Complex — layers of botanicals that unfold as you drink
• Clean and balanced — no harsh alcohol burn, nothing artificial
• Versatile — works in a G&T, a martini, a sour, or simply on the rocks

The best craft gins are made by distillers who obsess over every botanical in the recipe. That means sourcing real juniper berries (not flavouring), experimenting with locally grown herbs and citrus peel, and distilling slowly to preserve the delicate aromatics that make gin so distinctive.

Ontario's Craft Gin Scene Is Thriving

Ontario has quietly become one of the most exciting regions in North America for craft spirits. The province is home to dozens of independent distilleries producing everything from single malt whisky to botanical gins — and the quality is genuinely competitive with anything you'd find in Scotland, England, or the Pacific Northwest.

Searches for "Ontario craft gin", "craft gin Ontario buy online", and "best gin in Canada" have all been on the rise — and for good reason. People are tired of paying $60+ for imported bottles when incredible local options exist at a fraction of the price.

At Maverick Distillery, we've been crafting spirits in Ontario since 2009. We were one of the original craft distilleries in the province, and our commitment to local ingredients and honest flavour has never wavered.

Introducing Ginslinger: Ontario's Craft Gin Done Right

Ginslinger Ontario Craft Gin is distilled at 46% ABV — a higher proof than most commercial gins — which means more flavour, more presence in a cocktail, and a more satisfying sip straight or over ice.

What sets Ginslinger apart:

• Local juniper and a hand-selected botanical blend
• 46% ABV — fuller body and flavour than lower-proof gins
• Made in Ontario using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
• No artificial flavours — what you taste is what went in the still
• Available in multiple variants — including the fan-favourite Strawberry Hibiscus Ginslinger

Reviewers have called it "clean, crisp, refreshing, and not too sweet." One customer described it as their "summer go-to." It's the gin you reach for when you actually want to taste the gin — not just the tonic.

What Cocktails Can You Make with Ginslinger?

The short answer: all of them. The longer answer is that Ginslinger's botanical complexity and higher proof make it especially excellent in:

• Classic G&T — Ginslinger, premium tonic, a slice of cucumber and lime. Done. Perfect.
• Dirty Martini — The higher proof stands up to the olive brine like a champ
• Tom Collins — Fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, soda. Ginslinger does the heavy lifting
• Gin Sour — Shake it with lemon, simple syrup, and an egg white. Trust us
• Negroni — Ginslinger's bold botanical notes cut beautifully through sweet vermouth and Campari

Check out our full cocktail recipe blog for step-by-step guides to making these at home.

Where to Buy Craft Gin in Ontario

Here's the truth about buying gin in Ontario: the LCBO carries a limited selection, most of it is imported, and the shelf space allocated to local craft spirits is slim. You might get lucky — or you might spend 45 minutes in the aisle before giving up and grabbing whatever's at eye level.

There's a better way. MaverickDirect.ca ships Ginslinger directly to your door, anywhere in Ontario. Next-day delivery. No lineup. No compromises.

Orders over $150 ship free. And if it's your first order, join Club Maverick to get $20 off.

Craft Gin FAQs

Is craft gin gluten-free?
Yes — distilled gin is gluten-free. The distillation process removes gluten proteins, even when a grain base is used. If you have celiac disease, always check with the producer, but generally speaking, distilled spirits are safe.

What's the difference between London Dry Gin and craft gin?
London Dry is a style, not a geography — it means all botanicals are added during distillation, and nothing is added afterwards except water. Many craft gins are London Dry style. Others are "contemporary" or "new Western" style, which allows for more botanical creativity. Ginslinger sits beautifully in the craft/contemporary category.

Can I drink gin if I'm keto or low-carb?
Absolutely. Gin has zero carbs and zero sugar. It's one of the best spirit options for anyone watching their intake. Pair it with a sugar-free tonic for a nearly calorie-neutral drink.

What's the best gin for beginners?
Something approachable but genuinely flavourful. Ginslinger is a great entry point — it's not overwhelming, but it's got enough character to make you excited about gin. Start with a simple G&T and go from there.

Ready to try Ontario's best craft gin? Shop Ginslinger now at MaverickDirect.ca →