Gin: The Perfect Tipple For Every Occasion.
Gin has seen something of a revolution in recent years, with the spirit becoming ever more popular amongst cocktail and spirit lovers alike. With its subtle botanical notes, gin can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions – from a simple G&T after a hard day’s work to a bespoke martini that impresses your dinner guests. So, if you’re looking to up your cocktail game, it’s important to be knowledgeable about the spirit.
Gin has a fascinating history, and its recipe has changed many times over the years. It is said that gin began being made and enjoyed in Holland in the 16th century, but its popularity really took off in England a few centuries later, after it was made far cheaper as a result of the ‘Gin Act’. By the mid 1700s the country was well and truly entrenched in a ‘Gin Craze’, with London becoming the global centre of gin-making.
Gin is an incredibly versatile spirit, coming in a huge variety of styles and flavours. The spirit is made using a vodka base, with a number of botanicals added which gives it a unique flavour and character. The most popular style of gin is London Dry, which includes flavourings like juniper, angelica root, citrus peels and coriander seeds. However, different distillers use different botanicals, so it’s worth getting familiar with the different styles of gin out there so you can choose the right one to suit your needs.
In terms of cocktails, you’ll often find gins used in classic drinks like the Martini and Negroni, as well as modern takes on older recipes such as the Aviation or French 75. There are so many delicious cocktails you can make with a good gin, and it complements a variety of other ingredients from fruity red vermouth to tonic water.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start when it comes to exploring gin, then you’re in luck. Many distilleries now offer gin tastings, giving you the opportunity to compare different styles and flavours and sample the spirit in its pure form. It’s a great way to get to know the spirit better and find out what makes each gin unique.
Whether you’re looking for an aperitif to start your evening, or a spirit to enjoy with tonic or a cocktail, gin can be the perfect tipple for any occasion. By experimenting with different styles and ingredients, you can expand your knowledge of the spirit and discover something new. Gin’s popularity might have gone through its fair share of ups and downs, but with its versatility and versatility of flavours, it looks like this once very popular spirit is here to stay.