“Gin Is The Spirit Of Choice – Discover All Its Flavours Here!”.
Gin has been around for hundreds of years and is one of the most beloved spirits worldwide. From classic London Dry Gin to contemporary craft and flavoured variants, there’s something for everyone.
With its aromatic juniper base and smooth taste, gin is a versatile spirit that’s popular both neat and as part of a range of delicious cocktails. If you’re looking for an introduction to this beloved spirit, this comprehensive guide will go through everything you need to know.
From a historical overview to top-trending gin cocktails and a range of recipes, there’s something for every gin fan in this guide. So, discover all the tantalising flavours of gin and learn how to make your own drinks with this invaluable primer.
Gin: An Overview
Gin is a distilled alcoholic drink whose main flavouring is juniper berries. While gin typically has an ABV of around 35%-50%, many craft varieties are much higher, reaching as high as 88.8%. Gin’s popularity is largely down to its clean and slightly sweet flavour, which make it one of the most versatile spirits.
Gin’s popularity skyrocketed in England in the late 1700s, when it was prescribed as a tonic and anti-inflammatory remedy. It was particularly beloved by the Royals, and the Gin Craze of the 1700s saw London become awash with its primary ingredient: juniper berries.
Today’s gin is split into 4 main varieties. London Dry Gin is the classic choice and tends to be the most popular. This variant is a blend of juniper, coriander and a range of other herbs and spices. Plymouth Gin is a slightly sweeter variant of London Dry Gin, while Navy Strength Gin is a high-proof variation. Contemporary flavours are popular, too—think orange and cucumber-infused gins, for example.
How to Drink Gin
Gin is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a range of ways. Neat gin can be sipped on its own or with a few cubes of ice for a cooler drink. Alternatively, you can blend it with some premium tonic water for a classic G&T. Dry gin pairs particularly well with lemon or lime for a citrusy twist, while a slice of orange perfectly complements Navy Strength Gin.
Of course, gin also makes a fantastic base for numerous cocktails. For example, gin and tonics and martinis have become classics. You can find some of the latest trends, like Gin Fizzes, Elderflower Gin Fizzes, and Rhubarb Gin Fizzes. And be sure to explore all the different flavours of gin—they make excellent bases for delicious cocktails too.
Creating Your Own Gin Cocktails
Creating your own gin cocktails is a great way to showcase your unique recipes. To get started, first choose a gin base. Of course, if you’re creating your own gin, you have complete control of the flavours and proof.
Next, select your mixers. Be sure to choose ingredients that will bring out the best in the gin, whether it’s fresh herbs, liqueurs, bitters, or even unusual fruits. This is where you can truly let your creativity shine.
Finally, it’s time to mix your ingredients. Before serving your drink, be sure to taste it to ensure it’s in perfect balance.
Making Gin at Home
Making your own gin from home can be a fun and rewarding activity. To do this, you’ll want to purchase a still, which is a kind of distillation equipment. You’ll also need juniper berries, coriander, any other botanicals you’d like to add (such as orange peel or star anise or other spices), and the base spirit, which can be either vodka or a grain alcohol.
Put all the ingredients in the still, and then turn on the heat. This will help to separate the alcohol from the ingredients. As the mixture warms, the juniper and spices will infuse into the alcohol, creating your very own gin. Once the process is complete, turn off the heat and strain all of the solids.
You’ll now have your very own gin, so be sure to share it with friends and enjoy in your favourite G&T.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of classic martinis or contemporary flavoured creations, gin has something for everyone. Along with its crisp and fresh aroma, it’s a great all-round spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a cocktail.
So why not explore the range of flavours available, learn the basics of cocktail-making, and discover the joy of making your gin at home? With gin’s popularity at an all-time high, there’s never been a better time to do so.