Which of the following is NOT a common botanical used in gin production?

The botanical that is not commonly used in gin production is chili peppers. Gin is traditionally characterized by its predominant flavor of juniper berries, which is the defining ingredient of the spirit. Other commonly used botanicals include coriander seeds, which add a citrus and spice note, and citrus peel, which provides freshness and brightness to the flavor profile.

Chili peppers, while they may add an interesting spicy element to spirits, are not standard ingredients in the traditional style of gin. The focus in gin production is on creating a balance of flavors that enhance the primary juniper character, and the botanicals typically used align with this goal, while chili peppers do not fit within the classic botanical selection.

Recognizing the typical botanicals helps in understanding the essential characteristics of gin and differentiates it from other spirits that may feature chili peppers or other unconventional ingredients in their recipes.