Gin is a beloved spirit that people worldwide have enjoyed for centuries. It is a versatile and complex drink that can be enjoyed in various ways, from classic cocktails to modern mixers. Below, we'll explore what gin is, how it's made, the history of gin, and more!
What is Gin?
Gin is a distilled spirit primarily made with juniper berries and other botanicals. It has a distinct flavour profile characterised by its piney and herbaceous notes. Gin is typically straightforward and has a high alcohol content.
How to Drink Gin
There are many ways to enjoy gin, from sipping it neat to mixing it in cocktails. One of the most classic gin cocktails is the gin and tonic, which combine gin with tonic water and a slice of lime. Other popular gin cocktails include the Martini, Negroni, and Gimlet. When drinking gin neat, serving it chilled and in a stemmed glass is best to preserve its aroma.
How is Gin Made?
Gin is made by distilling a neutral spirit with a blend of botanicals. The most crucial botanical in gin is juniper berries, which give it its signature flavour. Other botanicals commonly used in gin include coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, and cardamom, amoungst many others. The recipe of botanicals used in gin varies from brand to brand and is often a closely guarded secret.
There are two main methods for making gin: maceration and vapour infusion. In the maceration, the botanicals are added directly to the neutral spirit and left to steep for a period of time. In vapour infusion, the botanicals are placed in a basket above the still, and the steam passes through them, infusing the spirit with their flavours.
History of Gin
Gin's long and exciting history dates back to the 17th century. It was first created in the Netherlands as a medicinal spirit known as genever. Genever was brought to England by soldiers during the Thirty Years' War, and it quickly gained popularity among the English population. It was especially popular among the poor, who needed help to afford expensive imported spirits like brandy.
In the 18th century, gin became a source of social and moral concern in England. The government passed several laws to curb its consumption, including the Gin Act of 1751, which imposed high taxes on gin and made it more challenging to produce. However, these measures did little to stem the popularity of gin, which continued to be consumed in large quantities throughout the 19th century.
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