The distinctive, lively character of gin comes from juniper and other botanicals, added to a base of neutral spirits. Juniper gives gin its strong and refreshing herbal profile, but adding other botanicals allows producers to design an unlimited number of gin flavors. What are botanicals? They’re plant-based flavoring agents such as coriander (spicy), angelica root (earthy), dried citrus peels (fruity), caraway seeds, aniseed, cocoa, almonds, vanilla and many more.