Roses already offer a light, floral aroma to whatever it is added to. It has become a favorite in the culinary world recently because of exactly this. However, it is also a popular gin botanical for the same reason. It will add a floral, earthy taste to the gin, yet it will maintain some of its sweetness as well. There is a very subtle strawberry taste to rose petals. Rose petals may be used both dry and fresh in the distillation process.