The spice obtained from the ripe berries of the common juniper tree, Juniperus communis. The berries are fermented and distilled to produce gin, and juniper berry extracts are used as flavourings, e.g. in ice cream, sugar confectionery, and bakery products. They also flavour game dishes and marinades with their pine-like, resinous character. Harvested from wild and cultivated stands, they must be correctly identified and free of contaminants before food use. Its berries also season game terrines and sauerkraut in European cooking.