Gin is in this Christmas (just as it was last Christmas, and probably will be again next Christmas), and with so many different varieties out there to choose from, it can be hard to know which brand and blend to opt for. So we asked Tony Pert, general manager at Edinburgh gin bar The Jolly Botanist, to pick five varieties he thinks would work well for a wee tipple this festive season.

Brockmans
Brockmans says its aim was to create a gin 'so intensely smooth and delicious you would happily drink it neat over ice'. It makes Tony's list since it's 'very fruity', and 'great for first time gin drinkers to get them started'.

Rock Rose
This variety is made in Scotland, and is described as 'flavourful and fresh, zesty yet berryful, with a long, smooth finish'. The makers credit the drink as being 'blessed with the freshest air and the purest Highland water' and it is Tony's personal favourite.

​Edinburgh Christmas Gin
Distilled in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, this seasonal libation is heady with rich spices and sweet oranges, and has 'an almost honeyed, thicker mouth-feel thanks to the miraculous addition of myrrh'. Very Christmassy indeed.

Monkey 47
This German gin is a classic choice, and as Tony notes, it is 'very floral and tasty, and a bit unusual'. A range of handpicked botanicals give this tipple its unique flavour, and the label design is suitably vintage and lovely.

Opihr
If you're after something out of the ordinary, try this oriental spiced gin. It 'has bursts of citrus balanced with the rich, earthy aromas and a soft spice', and Tony recommends serving it with orange and ginger.

The Jolly Botanist, 260 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, 0131 228 5596, thejollybotanist.co.uk

Check out more food and booze recommendations from local experts:
Best Christmas cheeses
Best Christmas craft beers
Best Christmas coffee