Gin is a very common used base for cocktails, including the famous martini. The original gin was concocted illegally in bathtubs and bore little resemblance to the gin we know today. It was probably this poor flavour that gave cocktails their popularity.

Gin is a "neutral, rectified spirit distilled from any grain, potato or beet and flavoured with juniper". Clearly with this definition there are alot of variations of "gin" around. And each manufacturer keeps their recipe closely guarded.