2208.50.00 - Gin and Geneve

This HTS category, 2208.50.00, specifically covers gin and geneva. These spirits are characterized by their predominant flavor derived from juniper berries, a defining botanical. Gin, in its various forms, is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from grain and flavored with juniper. Geneva, also known as Holland gin, is a closely related spirit that is often maltier in character and can be either unaged or aged.

While this category falls under the broader heading of "Undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength by volume of less than 80 percent vol.; spirits, liqueurs and other spirituous beverages," it is distinct from its siblings by its specific flavoring. Unlike whiskies (2208.30) which are typically aged and made from malted grains, or rum (2208.40) derived from sugarcane, or vodka (2208.60) which is generally neutral in flavor, gin and geneva's defining characteristic is their juniper essence. Similarly, it is differentiated from liqueurs and cordials (2208.70.00), which are typically sweetened and flavored after distillation.

The subcategories within 2208.50.00, such as 2208.50.00.30 (in containers each holding not over 4 liters) and 2208.50.00.60 (in containers each holding over 4 liters), further refine the classification based on the packaging size. This distinction is important for import and export purposes, as duties and regulations can vary based on the volume of the containers.